Combat boots vs. hiking boots: which is better? Both are known for providing incredible support and comfort to wearers. But which is really better?
Hiking Boots And Combat Boots: Comparison Table
As their name suggests, hiking boots are perfect for hiking while combat ones are boots built for soldiers.
However, many people prefer to wear combat boots for their hiking trips, especially when they have to go on rough and rocky trails.
What is the difference between hiking boots and combat boots? Which is better for you?
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Hiking Boots and Combat Boots: What Is the Main Difference?
Hiking Boots and Combat Boots are better for a specific purpose, which I will discuss further in the following sections.
1. Convenience
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots feature a speed-lace lacing system, allowing you to put on or take off easily. However, these boots lack a side zipper, making them less convenient than their combat counterparts.
Combat Boots
These boots come with zippers on their side and the speed-lace lacing system like hiking boots, allowing you to put them on or take them off easily and quickly.
The winner is Combat boots.
2. Durability
Hiking Boots
Hiking boots are designed to conquer long distances and allow you to move under the different weather conditions you may face during your trip.
Therefore, they must have the following characteristics:
- Strong leather material
- Great shock resistance
- Decent weather resistance,
- Solid rubber soles with superior traction.
Combat Boots
These boots are durable and sturdy enough to withstand any rigorous activity of soldiers carrying heavy luggage.
They are often made from super-durable materials, such as nylon fabric, suede leather, and anti-wear soles, to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Moreover, these boots easily resist attacks from many chemical components.
The winner is Combat boots.
3. Comfort
Hiking Boots
There is no denying that hiking is superior to combat when it comes to comfort. It has various features to provide maximum comfort for hikers who spend a lot of time on trails. These features may include:
- Moisture-wicking
- Cushioned insoles
- Absorb and redirect shocks
- Repellent/waterproof exterior
- Arch support
- Breathability
- Special linings and paddings
- Superior balance
- Stability
Maximum comfort is something anyone needs when hiking, and that’s what these do very well.
Combat Boots
Combat boots provide maximum protection for soldiers’ feet when they are on duty or in battle. Therefore, they also provide maximum comfort for wearers.
Soldiers often travel on long roads while carrying a lot of heavy equipment.
So these boots should provide better comfort than their hiking counterparts thanks to their lightweight feel and breathable design.
In addition, they have the following features:
- Better cushioning.
- Amazing moisture retention.
- Great arch support.
- Waterproof & moisture-wicking abilities.
- Quick-drying system.
The winner is Combat boots.
4. Flexibility
Hiking Boots
As their name suggests, these boots’ main function is hiking. The design of these boots gives them more flexibility than normal ones.
These boots are flexible and lightweight. They feature high-impact absorption and energy return. Some models can also work well on mountain trails.
Combat Boots
Combat boots are made to serve soldiers on the battlefield. So there is no doubt these boots must provide maximum flexibility to the soldiers.
They provide flexibility thanks to features such as:
- Lightweight construction.
- Flexible outsole.
- Speed-lace lacing.
- Heavy load carrying.
However, because of the nature of combat boots’ intended purpose, they are slightly stiff. Thanks to that, the hiking boots got their first win in this head-to-head comparison.
The winner is Hiking boots.
5. Safety
Hiking Boots
These boots focus on the safety of hikers as they may face numerous challenges on the trail, such as extreme weather conditions and rough terrain. To provide maximum protection for hikers, these boots come with features like:
- Non-slip outsoles.
- Multi-Directional lugs.
- Redirect shock.
- Ankle support.
- Shock absorption.
- Waterproof upper.
- Padded collars.
- Crampon connection.
Combat Boots
Combat boots work best for military services, law enforcement agencies, and security personnel.
Manufacturers are forced to ensure their combat boots come with safety features that no other boots can offer. The key safety features of these boots are:
- Ankle support,
- Anti-slip outsoles
- Flame resistance
- Pressure resistance
- Safety composite toe
- Anti-high temperature
- Anti-chemical surfaces
- Excellent stability
- Great balance
6. Best For
Hiking Boots
- Best for backpacking, camping, hiking, beginner canyoning (kloofing or canyoneering), light mountain climbing, and casual walks.
- Best for those who consider weighting a concern, and their gear has to be as light as possible.
- Best for those who want stylish and more traditional boots when hiking.
Combat Boots
- Best for military services, law enforcement agencies, and security personnel
- Best for technical hiking, mountaineering, trekking, and backpacking into not-often-traveled and never-before-traveled areas
- Best for those who have a heavy load to carry.
- Best for those who need ultimate protection for their feet from the elements, such as extreme weather, rocks, and other rough terrain elements.
Combat Boots vs. Hiking Boots: Which Is for You?
Picking between combat boots and hiking boots is easy if you know where you will go, what the terrain is like, how long you will be away, and what kind of traction, stability, grip, support, and protection your feet want to get.
Combat boots are designed to provide maximum protection to the wearer’s feet, making them ideal for those who need to traverse rough terrain or inclement weather conditions.
Hiking boots are the right choice for those who prioritize comfort, style, pocket, and versatility.
FAQ
Below here is common questions and answers related to Combat Boots vs. Hiking Boots.
Can I Wear Combat Boots for Hiking?
Yes. Combat boots are comfortable and suitable for backpacking and hiking. It is especially ideal for those who want extra ankle support and durability.
These boots are designed to survive extreme use and conditions, making them ideal for any backpacking trip you plan.
Are 511 Tactical Boots Good for Hiking?
You can use 511 tactical boots as soft-toe work boots and hiking boots.
Are Combat Boots Useful?
Not only useful in the army, but combat boots also work well in many settings.
For example, they are ideal for technical hiking, mountaineering, trekking, and backpacking into not-often-traveled and never-before-traveled places.
Are Combat Boots Good for Winter?
You can’t go wrong with combat boots in winter. Their rugged soles feature enough traction for icy surfaces.
These boots protect against the discomfort of wind, rain, and snow. Moreover, they can warm your ankles, and some models may look chic.
What Is the Purpose of a Tactical Boot?
Tactical boots are designed to be worn by soldiers during combat training or real combat. They provide maximum flexibility and protection for soldiers’ feet while keeping them comfortable and agile.
Why Are Combat Boots So High?
These boots are so high to prevent water, mud, debris, or any other foreign objects from entering the boots and leading to any discomfort.
Why Do Combat Boots Have Heels?
The cushioning and heel of these boots will take away that immediate pain response you may get when walking barefoot, leading to more forceful heel strikes that send one shock up your body to the spine.
Can You Wear Combat Boots in the Summer?
It is okay to wear combat boots in summer. Yet, take care of several things if you live in a very hot city:
- Avoid Fall/Winter colors.
- Avoid cal/knee length.
- Avoid heavy boots with belts and straps.
Are Combat Boots Comfortable?
Yes, of course. Combat boots provide maximum comfort so soldiers can more easily operate on the battlefield.
Should Combat Boots Be Loose or Tight?
Combat boots should feel snug around the ball and instep of your foot but must be loose enough that flexing your foot forward isn’t uncomfortable.
Do Combat Boots Need to Be Break In?
You will need to thoroughly break combat boots in before you try and wear them around all day.
