In a hurry? Our top pick for the best survival boots are the FREE SOLDIER Men’s Tactical boots.
When it comes to survival situations, having the right gear can mean the difference between life and death. One essential item that you’ll definitely want to have in your survival kit is a pair of boots that can withstand any harsh condition and keep your feet protected. That’s why we’re going to be discussing the best survival boots on the market and what to look for when making a purchase.
In this article, we’ll be reviewing the following best survival boots:
- Reebok Rapid Response Boot
- FREE SOLDIER Men’s Tactical Boots
- WOLVERINE Men’s CarbonMAX Boot
- Rocky Men’s Lynx Hunting Boot
- Thorogood GEN-Flex2 Tactical Boots
- Under Armour Men’s Micro G Valsetz Boot
- TIDEWE Rubber Neoprene Boots
Best Survival Boots – Reviewed
Reebok Rapid Response Boot
- Weight: 2 Pounds
- Sole: Rubber
- Fastening System: Laces
If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable tactical boot, the Reebok Rapid Response boots are definitely worth considering.
These survival boots are a great option for anyone who needs a reliable and comfortable pair of tactical footwear. The composite safety toe cap provides extra protection without adding too much weight to the boot, and the adjustable circumference ensures a snug and comfortable fit around your leg.
It’s also hard not to like the EVA midsole, embedded Shock Eliminator heel cushion, and Foot Force® F2A footbed. These features work together to provide all-day cushioning and comfort, making these boots perfect for extended periods of time outdoors and/or intense survival situations.
However, the side zipper isn’t quite as durable as the rest of the boot, and finding the right size can be hit or miss. I’ve also found that the boot might not be suitable for extreme weather conditions, so keep that in mind when you’re considering where you want to use them.
Overall, if you’re looking for a comfortable and durable tactical boot, the Reebok Rapid Responses are a great choice. Just make sure to check the sizing and be aware of the limitations of the side zipper.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Composite safety toe cap | The side zipper might not be as durable as the rest of the boot |
| Adjustable circumference | Might not be suitable for extreme weather conditions |
| EVA midsole, embedded Shock Eliminator heel cushion, and Foot Force® F2A footbed | |
| Pretty durable | |
| Handles water well |
FREE SOLDIER Men’s Tactical Boots
- Weight: 2.4 Pounds
- Sole: Rubber
- Fastening System: Laces
The FREE SOLDIER men’s tactical boots are designed to provide full protection, anti-collision capabilities, and ankle support. Overall, they’re suitable for tactical, military, combat, and hunting, but they work perfectly well for survival situations as well. The reinforced toe cap and heel provide extra protection, while the all-terrain outsole with a geometrical pattern design offers excellent grip on all surfaces.
The middle part of the boots is made of thin Lycra fabric, which is durable and breathable, helping to keep your feet comfortable. The removable insole and breathable lining make these survival boots more sweat-releasing and quick-drying, preventing your feet from getting too sweaty.
What I appreciate is how the boots are so lightweight and fit true to size, weighing about 2.4 pounds (38.4 ounces). They have a gusseted tongue that prevents pebbles, sand, dirt, and other debris from entering the boots, so you can feel confident playing rough in them. The heel is 1.6 inches, and the shaft is roughly 8 inches high from the heel, making it better to protect your ankle.
In general, the FREE SOLDIER boots are a great choice for anyone looking for durable and comfortable survival boots. Perfect for outdoor activities and daily life, they’re definitely one of the best for all-day comfort.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Ergonomic design | The metal eyelets and lace are not as durable as they could be |
| Well ventilated | |
| Scratch resistant | |
| Pretty durable | |
| Waterproof |
WOLVERINE Men’s CarbonMAX Boot
- Weight: 2.5 Pounds
- Sole: Rubber
- Fastening System: Laces
The WOLVERINE Men’s CarbonMAX boots are perfect for outdoor activities, work, and survival situations. The waterproof full-grain leather upper ensures that your feet stay dry even in wet conditions. The 400g Thinsulate Ultra insulation provides warmth in cold environments, making these boots perfect for winter activities. The CarbonMAX composite toe offers protection without adding weight, making these boots comfortable to wear for extended periods.
However, the rubber sole may not provide enough grip on slippery surfaces, so it is important to be cautious when wearing these boots in wet conditions. It’s also worth noting that the steel, puncture-resistant plate may make the boots heavy, which isn’t really ideal for long hikes. If you don’t mind the extra challenge that the weight provides, or you don’t plan on going very far in a day, it shouldn’t be a problem.
Overall, the WOLVERINE Men’s CarbonMAX boots are a great option for anyone in need of reliable and durable survival boots. Just be careful when it comes to blisters before you have a chance to fully break them in, as these boots can create hot spots.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Ergonomic design | A little heavy |
| Nice amount of drip | Take some time to break in |
| Good deal of protection | |
| Very warm | |
| Waterproof |
Rocky Men’s Lynx Hunting Boot
- Weight: 2.4 Pounds
- Sole: Rubber
- Fastening System: Laces
The Rocky Men’s Lynx boots are a great choice for survivalists who want a comfortable and durable set of footwear that can withstand the harsh conditions of hunting and other outdoor activities. Despite their size, the boots are lightweight and comfortable, making them suitable for extended periods of wear. I also appreciate how well-cushioned the footbed is, providing excellent support to help reduce fatigue.
While the boots are slightly more expensive than some other options on the market, the reinforced toe and heel cap are worth the expense. They really help provide additional protection against impact and abrasion, making them one of the more durable and long-lasting products on this list. Which is to say, it’s a classic case of “you get what you pay for.”
Despite the comfort, don’t forget about the break in period. Always be sure to walk around in your brand-new boots a few times a week, before you decide to go out and use them for their intended purpose.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | The upper portion of the boot is tight on the lower leg, which may cause discomfort for some users |
| Comfortable | |
| Excellent support | |
| Reinforced toe and heel cap | |
| Durable |
Thorogood GEN-Flex2 Tactical Boots
- Weight: 2 Pounds
- Sole: GEN-Flex2® TRACTION OUTSOLE
- Fastening System: Laces
The Thorogood GEN-Flex2 Tactical boots are a great investment for those who need a hard-working boot. The boots are made in the USA, which I already know is going to be a bonus for many of you. The slip resistant outsole (with deep work boot lugs) provides a great deal of stability, helping you stay on your feet while traversing all surfaces. It’s the sort of feature that you’d hope to find in the best survival boots, and the Thorogood’s don’t disappoint. They’re also waterproof, so you can keep liquids at bay while wicking away moisture, allowing your feet to breathe. For those who care to know, they even meet ASTM F1671-13 BBP Waterproof Footwear Standards.
The boots are heavy, and despite the superior breathability, your feet will probably sweat more than normal. Generally speaking, I’ve also found that they run a size large. However, if you don’t mind playing with the size and suffering through some extra sweatiness, there’s little else to dislike about these boots.
All that to say, if you’re looking for a hard-working boot that is made in the USA, the Thorogood GEN-Flex2 boots are a great investment. Not only are they slip-resistant and waterproof, but they’re sturdy comfortable to wear for long periods of time, which exactly what you want in a survival situation.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Made in the USA | A bit heavy |
| Flexible | Run a size large |
| Comfortable to wear for long periods of time | |
| Very durable | |
| Great water resistance |
Under Armour Men’s Micro G Valsetz Boot
- Weight: 2.9 Pounds
- Sole: Rubber
- Fastening System: Laces
Overall, the Under Armour Men’s Micro G Valsetz boots are a solid choice for those in need of comfortable and durable survival footwear. With its lightweight design, responsive cushioning, and high traction outsole, this boot is definitely one of my favorites for survival situations.
Under Armour is known to be an expensive brand, but the Valsetz boots are actually pretty budget friendly, as far as these types of boots go. The sleek design adds to their charm, and the attention to comfort means you’re going to have a very short break in period. I also appreciate how thoroughly designed the pull-on loops are, which help make these boots some of the easiest to pull on and off.
Anti-slip soles keep you from sliding around very much on treacherous ground, but unfortunately, the Valsetz boots are not fully waterproof. They’ll resist water to some extent, but you can’t go through shallow water without suffering for it.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Great cushioning | Not waterproof |
| Breathable | |
| Easy to get on and off | |
| Quite durable | |
| Grippy on a variety of surfaces |
TIDEWE Rubber Neoprene Boots
- Weight: 5.8 Pounds
- Sole: Rubber
- Fastening System: Slip on
The TIDEWE boots are made with high-quality materials that are designed to withstand harsh conditions. While certainly not your standard survival boots, the CR Flex-Foam material is both waterproof and flexible, making it easy to move around in. The boots are also insulated with heat-resistant material, which helps to keep your feet warm in cold temperatures.
In terms of comfort, this set of footwear is surprisingly lightweight and feel good to wear for extended periods. The 4-way stretch nylon provides a snug fit, while the rubber neoprene material is soft and flexible. Like most of the other boots listed in this review, the TIDEWEs are also designed with a slip-resistant sole, providing excellent traction on slippery surfaces.
It’s worth noting that they tend to run small, so it’s important to check the size chart carefully before purchasing, to ensure a proper fit. On top of that, the boots may not be suitable for extreme cold temperatures below -4°F/-20°C, and they’re somewhat lacking in durability compared with other options.
But overall, the TIDEWE boots are a great choice for anyone in need of a comfortable and waterproof boot for outdoor survival activities. With their high-quality materials and complete protection design, these boots are sure to keep your feet dry and warm in any weather.
| Pros: | Cons: |
|---|---|
| Great traction | Sizes may run small, so check the size chart carefully before purchasing |
| Comfortable | |
| Lightweight | |
| Keep your feet warm | |
| Waterproof |
Best Survival Boots – Buyer’s Guide
Durability
When it comes to survival boots, durability is one of the key features that you should look for. This is especially true if you plan to use your boots in harsh environments or for long-term use.
Specifically, the materials (and construction) of survival boots play a crucial role in their overall durability. Leather is a popular material for these types of boots, as it’s strong and can withstand abrasion. Synthetic materials are also popular in some boots and can be just as durable as leather, while often clocking in at a fraction of the price. But the king of them all has to be Gore-Tex, which is undoubtedly one of the most popular waterproofing materials used in many clothing brands.
To maintain the durability of your survival boots, it is important to take good care of them. Regular cleaning and drying can prevent dirt and moisture from building up and damaging the boots. Don’t be afraid to use some waterproofing sprays to help protect the boots from water damage as well, and always make sure to store them in a location where they won’t receive direct sunlight.
Protection
The best survival boots protect your feet from injuries, infections, and environmental hazards that you might face during your outdoor adventures. That being said, toe caps are a common feature in survival boots that provide protection for (you guessed it) your toes. They’re usually made of steel or composite materials that can withstand impacts and compression, effectively taking the force of impact without transmitting it to your toes.
On top of that, ankle support is another aspect of protection that is essential for preventing sprains and twists. Many survival boots have high-top designs that provide extra support and stability for your ankles, helping to prevent accidental injury to your joints.
If you don’t live in an area where snakes are a problem, you might not even think of getting survival boots with snake guards. However, these are a must-have feature in survival boots if you’re hiking in areas where venomous snakes are prevalent. The guards are usually made of thick and durable materials that can resist snake bites, reducing the risk of getting bitten.
So, how can you choose the right level of protection for different scenarios? It depends on various factors such as climate, terrain, and activity. For instance, if you’re hiking in a rocky and rugged terrain, you may need boots with sturdy toe caps and ankle support. On the other hand, if you’re hiking in a swampy area, you may need boots with snake guards and waterproof features. Consider where you’ll be engaging in outdoor activities and choose the right level of protection that fits your needs and preferences.
Comfort
When it comes to survival boots, comfort is just as important as durability and protection. After all, if your feet are in pain, you won’t be able to walk long distances or hike through rough terrain effectively.
There are several factors that affect the comfort of survival boots, such as fit, size, cushioning, and breathability. A good fit is essential for comfortable boots (or shoes in general), so be sure to measure your feet properly and choose the right size. If the boots are too tight or too loose, they can cause blisters, sore spots, or even injuries, and that’s the last thing you want to deal with in a survival situation.
Cushioning is another important factor for comfort. Look for boots with ample padding and support in the insole and midsole, as this can help absorb shock and reduce fatigue while walking or hiking. Just remember that cushioning equals weight, so it’s never a good idea to go overboard in this department.
You’ll want to think about breathability too, since it’s crucial for comfort in hot or humid conditions. Boots with breathable materials or ventilation can help prevent sweat buildup and keep your feet cool and dry, which prevent any fungal infections and can minimize the occurence of blisters.
As always, to ensure the comfort of your survival boots, it’s important to break them in properly. Wear them around the house or on short walks before taking them on a long hike – this will help soften the materials and mold them to your feet, reducing the chances of developing hot spots.
Sole
The sole of your survival boots is what makes contact with the ground, so you can imagine how important it is. It provides traction and stability, so without a good sole, you risk slipping, falling, or injuring yourself – events which can be dangerous and life-threatening.
There are different types of soles that you’ll find on survival boots, such as rubber, Vibram, lugs, treads, and more. Rubber soles are durable and provide a good grip on most surfaces, whereas Vibram soles are even more durable and offer excellent traction and support. Lugs and treads are designed to grip the ground and provide stability on uneven terrain, helping you to stay upright.
When selecting the right sole for different surfaces and conditions, you should consider the following factors:
- The type of terrain you’ll be walking on: Is it flat, rocky, muddy, or snowy?
- The climate and weather conditions: Is it hot, cold, wet, or dry?
- Your personal preferences and needs: Do you need more support, cushioning, or flexibility?
For example, if you’re hiking in rocky terrain, you may want a sole with deep lugs and treads to grip the surface and prevent slipping. If you’re walking on snow or ice, you may want a sole with a softer rubber compound that can grip the surface and provide traction. And if you’re walking in mud or wet conditions, you may want a sole with channels or grooves that can help shed water and prevent slipping. There’s no telling what you’ll encounter in a survival situation, but you should have some idea what the terrain will look like, helping you make the proper decision.
Fastening System
Finally, you can’t forget about the fastening system when you’re looking at the best survival boots. After all, you don’t want your boots to come off or loosen up while you’re out in the wilderness, do you? Here are the different types of fastening systems available, along with a brief description of when they’re useful (or detrimental).
Laces are definitely the most common fastening system for survival boots. They allow you to adjust the fit of the footwear to your liking, and they’re easy to replace if they break. However, laces can come undone if they’re not tied correctly, and they can get caught on branches or other obstacles.
Zippers are a convenient fastening system that allows you to put on and take off your boots quickly. They’re also less likely to come undone than laces; however, zippers can be prone to breaking, especially if they’re exposed to dirt, sand, or other debris.
Velcro is another fastening system that’s easy to use and adjust. It’s also less likely to come undone than laces, though Velcro can wear out over time.
Buckles are a durable fastening system that’s less likely to break than laces, zippers, or Velcro. They’re also easy to adjust and can provide a secure fit, but they can be difficult to replace if they break. They also aren’t terribly common among survival boots.
When choosing the best fastening system for your survival boots, consider your needs and preferences. Do you want a system that’s easy to use and adjust or one that’s more durable and secure? Do you prefer laces, zippers, Velcro, or buckles? Ultimately, the choice is yours, but make sure to choose a fastening system that will keep your boots secure and comfortable while you’re out in the wild.
Final Thoughts
Having proper footwear can make or break any survival situation. As the part of your body that’s always on the ground, you feet are most susceptible to dangers like snakebites, cuts, scrapes, and frostbite.
The best survival boots keep your feet safe from all of these hazards and more, which is why it’s so important to choose properly. Overall, we found that the FREE SOLDIER Men’s Tactical boots checked the most boxes, providing a great deal of protection and comfort to accommodate almost any survival situation.
