CHEAP vs. EXPENSIVE Tactical Boots - Spec Ops Compare

Hey there Fire Team, and welcome back for another episode of Shift Fire! In this episode of "War Wallet," we're highlighting the best tactical boots out there. From budget-friendly to bank-breaking, we've got a round-up of a wide variety of tactical boots for your consideration. Each boot in today's video has its own strengths, and you can count on us to be honest about which items offer the most bang for their buck.
Hit us up in the comments to let us know which boots you like best!
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Israel Wright: / israelwrightofficial
His twitch channel: / myhappyself
Cameron Fath : / cameroncfath
Shift Fire Merch: bit.ly/ShiftFireMerch
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This video is intended for entertainment and general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide any expert advice. Always consult with relevant firearms experts or lawyers with respect to the legal and responsible use of firearms. The content and information in this video should be used at your own risk. You assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions. Information found on this entertainment video does not detail the full training, procedures, techniques, and safety precautions that are necessary to properly use or operate a firearm or any other weapon safely and legally. Always refer to manufacturers' manuals and advice for use of specific firearms.

[@Dzonssi]

Just ordered Lowa Zephyr GTX Mids for myself (Most popular Europe Spec-Ops boot), can't wait to use them for going to get groceries in the most tactical way!

[@TheElusiveSun]

hey when a huge sale happens you got them boots to sprint and cut them corners. trust me bro

[@ryand.3858]

I got a pair of the Lowa Innox pro mid tf (what a name) for my daily wear. It’s been awesome so far.

[@djjasonceol9611]

I have the Salomon XA Forces Mid Gore-Tex EN and I’ve had them for over 3 years now. I’ve hiked in them in the mountains (Carolinas) both wet muddy and dry, through snow, and as daily wear. Wore them as main footwear at work manufacturing plant 12 hour shift where with a pedometer clocking 15 miles a night of walking on cement floor and feet would not be hurting afterwards. Great ankle support. Totally worth the cost!!!

[@Wile_E._Wolf]

I wore Merrell Moab 2 Mid GTXs during service. I can't advocate enough for them, never had any issues and they were by far the most comfortable boot I've ever worn (definitely better than the issued pair). I recently bought the Moab 3s after service but I don't like them quite as much as the Moab 2s. It's probably more familiarity than anything but the 3s don't feel the same

[@luischavez1701]

You must've been doing some high speed stuff if you got to wear those, nice

[@patrickcomparan7023]

What a personal topic you guys are willing to cover. Great stuff guys!

[@kennywillard147]

You guys should make videos more often!

[@clap5]

I got the moab2’s with gtx. Never had a issue with leaking. I’ve been through 2 pairs and wore them daily for work all year. Honestly the best value hands down. I moved into a different boot recently just to try something new. But the Moab 2 is solid and will give you about 2 years of service with daily regular use.

[@MrFlamingstick]

One of the biggest things for me was going from a typical "hiking" boot to an "approach" or "technical" boot. Having the very stiff sole of the boot made them way more comfortable for rocky trails but I use them for forest trails too and have hundreds of miles in them. Will never wear another style of boot again.

[@ibbi270]

What brand of shoes?

[@MrFlamingstick]

@@ibbi270 The specific shoe I use is the Salewa Wildfire Edge Mid GTX.

[@AoSRejects]

I had a pair of Bates tactical boots. Similar to the Moab 2. Loved them. Lightweight, durable, and super comfortable.

[@R00KIE_GUY]

I wear my 5.11 A/T mid ride boots every day. I love them.

[@joe_jo4201]

It's a good day when shift fire uploads a video

[@bygodfreeman]

Cowboy boots for quickness, but a good pair of lacers is very tough to beat!

[@Tadicuslegion78]

as someone with plantar fasciitis, comfortable shoes/boots are the one thing I will not cheap out on

[@jongauchay9948]

Same

[@MisterNi]

You should also find a good insole insert. Those go a long way in making sure you're feet are comfortable.

[@samuelmahoney6878]

Agreed! I don’t have plantar fasciitis and I still think that not cheaping out is extremely important! That said, my boots are fairly cheap. Belleville lightweight assault. Best boots for me, though I’d happily pay twice the price for the same comfort. Dress shoes I nearly do, getting some Eccos that meet standard.

[@linglee8688]

Same bro the struggle is real

[@NathanCarr]

Do you also lace differently? For the foot issue.

[@D.M.Luiz.]

Wow this video was short,sweet and to the point.

[@mackp1367]

Thanks for the content boys. From Alberta Canada. You guys should do one on the JTF2 and other special ops

[@mr.morris2907]

I had Merrell's for a hot min for work then finally decided to spend the extra loot and get Salomon's X Ultra Pioneer in a mid. ...That boot, with some Dr Scholl's work insoles changed my life.. The Merrell's still get love when I'm going into town or in the yard.

[@ShadowGestalt]

I would love to see a dance-off between Cam and Izzy. We NEED to see Cam's skills. And.. to keep it fair.. we need an "Act-off" to see Izzy's acting skills. You guys rock by the way. Aspiring actor myself, and would welcome any tips advice from Izzy.

[@IsraelWright]

challenge accepted!

[@ShadowGestalt]

@@IsraelWright Hell yeah!

[@troypeterson6808]

Love your guys channel I was Poole in school but that’s it.

[@high633]

Been wearing Solomons exclusively since hs. Personally i prefer the climate control lining over gortex for a day to day shoe. They aren't waterproof but water resistant to the point of needing to stand in a puddle for several minutes before you even feel the wetness. Let alone get wet feet. Sadly both the climate control and gortex Solomons take forever to dry once soaked.

[@ThisGuyOfficial.]

these guys deserve more subscribers :)

[@Dork_224]

I actually own a pair of Free Soldiers and I love 'em. I don't really have an issue with the toe box being too wide, but then again, I also have wide hobbit feet

[@applesauceisgood32]

I learned the hard way, don't go cheap on boots; comfort, durability, quality and features. I love my Danner Acadias, well worth every penny.

[@markredacted8547]

I roll with Danner's they're by far the greatest boots I've ever owned.

[@Lukeskywalker341]

You dudes are awesome I've never as far youtube connected with a channel quicker I'm not military but I love learning everything you guys teach and both of you seem like the most down to earth guys and thank you for your service. Also what's the best caliber for a Virginia guy to own if shit hits the fan

[@kaiberuss]

i would love to see another one of these with the lowa zephyr gtx mk2

[@UncleSam1732]

I absolutely love my CQR Tactical boots, I wear them everyday and doing security. I highly suggest them.

[@eaglet6703]

I really hope you guys make some videos on some issue boots. Would like to see it!

[@Chris09978]

They are not that great, it’s daners and some other brand as well. LOWA are starting to become the standard slowly though, most LEO and SOF units are wearing these

[@Dzonssi]

@@Chris09978 LOWA are standard issue for a lot of spec-ops units in Europe, they are amazing!

[@MisterNi]

Oakley Light Assault boots are what I wore in Afghanistan. Those were the only boots I could wear brand new that didn't hurt until they were broken in. In Iraq I wore standard issue which are protective and pretty comfortable but heavy. You can't buy those as a civilian though.

[@Chris09978]

@@Dzonssi for US it’s slowly starting to be the standard for US military wise and LOWA as of now are issued to LEO and US SOF units. I work at a shipping facility in the states and I unload a truck that’s mostly LOWA and I can see the dealers it goes to mostly galls, tactical distributors and fort Bragg not even kidding, the boxes were huge could fit like 6-12 boots in one box. 45% of it goes to galls a first responder website for gear and such, and 15% of it goes to fort Bragg and the and another 40% goes to tactical distributors

[@davids11131113]

I had a pair of those ‘Free Soldier’ Amazon boots they were ok lasted good for a year or so.

[@samuelmahoney6878]

I have strong opinions about footwear and my boot of choice was also one of the cheapest actual military boots. Belleville lightweight assault. I don’t mind paying way more for a boot, but these for me were comfortable out of the box and I could go running in them no problem. The Merrill’s are just absolutely the worst for me. Just wrong for my feet. I did wear some Merrill trail runners in civvies on deployment. Those were nice. Solomon used to have great insoles for me, but again, the cheap bellevilles are just better for me. I know a lot of folks like the Nike’s as well, but those are not good for me. Be picky about shoes always. Take care of your feet. Go with what is comfortable after miles of wear. I don’t mind spending $300 on shoes. I really don’t. But I won’t spend just for name and reputation.

[@jonasbruzas2651]

buy Meindl Black Anakonda .1000 pro cent best boots.

[@tattoochef]

Love my bates side zip tactical sport 2 boots.

[@Fishing413]

would have loved to watch these fine gentlemen do the duck walk in them boots lol

[@johntaylor7256]

Personally I wear danner marine expeditionary 8” boots. They are quite expensive but they fit my feet great, no real break in period, and I can end up walking upwards of 10 miles a day at work and my feet still feel good at the end of the day

[@samuelmahoney6878]

I tried to like Danners. I had the option to have them issued, but they were too narrow for me.

[@r6iqmain498]

Cabelas hunting boot in atacs camo I used it for airsoft in the rain snow mud or just working around the farm it kept my feet warm and comfortable

[@tylarhaugan7908]

As a guy who has size 16 hunting boot/tactical. All big popular brands out of question

[@andrewfilippo]

Hello guys, can you guys do more what gear would you wear. Like the ones from the jungle video and zombies video?

[@glenngaston1557]

I just bought both the Merrell and Salomon two weeks ago and now you guys posted this 😅. I could have saved some money.

[@xwinter__riderx9155]

Hi guys, more War Wallet! 😃

[@TAFR224]

Will you guys do another MRE episode soon?

[@juliorosas5194]

I have the same Merrell and the same Salomon, and I love both. It depends on what It's the proposes, the salomon are more for a hard work/tactic in a hard terrain and condition and warm, and the merrell more confort and versatile.

[@shanepowell5115]

Great channel

[@Mr.Moose00]

I use the Lowa zephyr GTX Mid tf in desert there like $230.

[@Outcastr1]

Cameron, you remind me of Gary from muscadine bloodline- pretty sure you're moonlighting as a member of their band in your spare time ;) check em out if you 'haven't' heard of them. Also, great video..Keep em coming!

[@Maverex_]

Worn my Merrell Moabs for 3 years before having to retire them due to the rubber on the upper becoming to soft and rips easily aside from that no issues. Had them replaced with my Salomon XA forces and been wearing them for a little over a year bow but seeing more wear and tear on them. Tread has more drags compared to the Merrells. Would recommend the Merrells over the Salomons IMHO

[@markredacted8547]

Next time add Danner boots to the list, they're comfortable af feels like I'm wearing sneakers, they're lightweight and mine are fullsize and would easily go for runs in them and have done so.

[@joshkiej6601]

My preferred shoes will always be Lowa zephyr or z8N's. Special forces in my country also tend to wear these, which should mean a lot.

[@djricane]

Amazing shoes indeed

[@Barbarian19923]

I've always used danners Tactical boots my last pair lasted for 10 years before my newest pair

[@pyeitme508]

Yep 👍

[@GunFitGamer]

Could y’all do a tactical boot vs like a basketball shoe and how that stack. I feel like they both have to do ideally the same thing maybe with different strengths and weaknesses but like how y’all do the agility test etc

[@JS-ji5bl]

Personally I like Bates they light waterproof and supportive with a nice price tag.. I haven't been able to find the Merrell ones in wide sizes so that puts the brakes on them out the gate for me... lol

[@TexasLegionaryGuard]

Our founder works armed security in one of the most dangerous areas in Dallas. He wears bates and he absolutely loves them.

[@samuelmahoney6878]

I’m all for personal choice and all, but at some point one is just a psycho.

[@TexasLegionaryGuard]

@@samuelmahoney6878 what are you talking about?

[@samuelmahoney6878]

@@TexasLegionaryGuard it was a joke about liking Bates. I've been issued them before, but I have never seen them in the wild. Most uncomfortable boots and dress shoes I have ever worn.

[@TexasLegionaryGuard]

@@samuelmahoney6878 our founder had a pair for about 5 or more years and they felt great to him and held up amazing. He got a new pair and they have gotten a lot better. He was walking a lot on concrete with rocks all over, through dirt and over normal strip club stuff and he felt good with them even with running. I’m sure they aren’t good for everyone but it’s also about getting the proper size and style boot to be comfortable

[@stevelambert6404]

I prefer an eight inch boot , have you ever tested those

[@8ddn]

I recently grabbed the SALOMON X ULTRA 4 MID for hiking

[@obiesunstreak2409]

problem is, the Moab 2, are no longer made, they have moved on to the Moab 3, and its more expensive now than the Solomon is.

[@ripvanwinkle7754]

You guys should do watches next

[@N7Tigger]

I've got the MOAB 2 and Salomon X3 Ultra and they are both great but the Salomon has no tread left on the heels and the Merrells look like they haven't been worn. I think Salomon sacrificed durability for grip.

[@b.kenobi9063]

5:57. Why tie your boots (or shoes) with laces when you can do this! 😎

[@christopherwood4861]

I use them for construction and trails there awesome have for years can't stand steel toe

[@tzvirosen]

hey, i have a quick question, how do the tactical moab 3 compare to th ehiking moab 3 ????

[@JJ-si4qh]

5:42 The problem with those boots is they wear out quick and have zero traction in any environment

[@Maine-lySurvivin]

Those Merrills are probably the most comfprtable Tac Boot I have ever worn but I do a lot of walking for work and hiking/training. The mesh didnt last a year. Started tearing wear the toes bend. Stupid comfortable and the soles are amazing but that Mesh just doesnt last.

[@dirtrider5845]

Do ballistic helmets next🤙🏽

[@DesertScooter]

I've been wearing my pair of Moab 2's since 2015.

[@ernestr1327]

The Solomons are basically boa without the ratchet looks cool

[@adamk8376]

I work in EMS and I swear by the MOAB 2. Swap out the laces for Lock Laces or Boa and they go to S Tier for me personally.

[@thejason755]

I actually just picked up a pair. I got em in wide so i could double-up on socks if need be. But so far as far as combat/tactical boots go, they are a solid #2 on my top 3 boots. They come in after my under-armours.

[@Fellow_Daoist]

I have the MOAB 3 boots, and they are really comfortable, but they seem to loosen up after a mile or so of hiking. Do you think it is because of the laces? Should I get some different ones?

[@adamk8376]

@@Fellow_Daoist Doesn't hurt to try. I swap mine out immediately for lock laces most of the time because I want to kick them off and put them back on easily when at the station and not on a call. Never wore them with the regular laces so I can't comment on that too much.

[@adamk8376]

@@thejason755 Loved my UA boots, the only downside to them is with all the shit that I walked through in EMS, and catching them on the side steps for the truck, I tore up the mesh toe cap way too quickly. The same thing happened with my Reebok once. But both of those were the most comfortable boots I ever worked in for 12 and 24-hour shifts.

[@CarlosPerez-su6hd]

Are there electric hazard military boots on Amazon you recommend for work?? At a decent price

[@silents4849]

Merrell still the best shoe's got the boots n normal shoe. I have been wearing merrell for over 10 years now got like 4 different pairs the best for the price n super comfy.

[@ryand.3858]

I’ve been thinking of buying the new Salomon forces speedcross 6 that just dropped. Anyone tried them yet? Green looks pretty nice.

[@samuelmahoney6878]

Always try on before committing. Everyone’s feet are different.

[@MrSlopywaffle115]

So i dont know if this has been suggested to you guys yet or not, but since yall have gone over foot wear twice. Whats a good choice for socks in the field? Cause i believe anyone can agree, shoes/boots are most certainly important but if you have a crappy pair of socks on, then you'll probably end up hurting your foot somehow

[@shanepowell5115]

😂hahahaha,,, you said BEATING OFF,,,HEHEHEHE

[@impordes]

What about LOWA boots?

[@wrestlingbear3752]

I love y'all

[@ExUSSailor]

If there's one item you don't want to cheap out on, it's boots. Socks are second. Take care of your feet! Neglecting your feet is the quickest way to end up combat ineffective.

[@jinkazama9999]

dood my salomons gtx and every other boot ive ever worn do not last longer then a year. I feel mud is what duress's them most idk. Theyre so comfortable if the laces arent too tight but the soles always detach after like a year. I wear them everyday for work and skull drag under houses and above them in attics every week but i feel like soil especially wet soil is what always making the soles detach i have boot glue but that doesn't last long either...you guys are gonna have to make another video on this subject please especially since no one else is adressing this much needed topic. If you think about it shoes and beds are what you spend the most time in and ive got the bed sitation figured need help with good very robust yet comfortable boots that offer great mobility and dont squeeze your toes/feet.Also i was cleaning my boots of with trickling water from my cooler everyday so idk if its a maintenance issue or what but i swear gloves and boots do not last for me...do a glove one too please!!!!rn im using leather mechanix and theyre doing fine but honestly they seam to degrade fast too... I am using them everyday so i need them reliable

[@oscarramos8573]

You guys gotta do a episode on eye pro

[@alexanderescobar6759]

I'm still alive!

[@IsraelWright]

hooray!

[@yinakiyama]

Wow

[@darkshadow-dp2sg]

I can relate on a personal scale

[@average_coomer8496]

Lets goooool🎉🎉🎉

[@ismarwinkelman5648]

That’s great news!

[@stevelambert6404]

Never shortcut your feet

[@undefeatedgaul3201]

Salomon ftw Those are “Salomon” btw and the model is “XA forces mid GTX”

[@sicoticent2132]

You guys should react to army schools

[@pyeitme508]

Woah 😳

[@chalkbos]

nexr video with lowa boots

[@yadi2244]

pants or helmets next? 👀

[@jeffblahblah5226]

Just thought Id give my 2 cents worth. I purchased a pair of Reebok RB8806 super comfy for 3 months then where the crease happens where you bend your toes the material started to fray and a moth later there is a large hole. I wrap cars as a job so I guess Im crouching more than most but 4 months is pretty poor! My advice is to shop elsewhere.

[@specialcookday]

For skiers they will say hey Salomon also makes ski and ski boots from 1970's. Also from Bible King Salomon.🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 It's that after 9-11 they started to do military boots.

[@indyfist9466]

I wear nikes about to start wearing tanker boots

[@arcusangelus]

I'm new to the Solomon game. . .and I'm never going back.

[@SincerelyVIIProductions]

Ok since you guys sound like you been around boots alot why does the my big toe hurt with the boot when I get it the correct size is there a formula for size? Because it's always my right boot lmao

[@chspg_alvis]

Are Oakley Lightweight Assault 2s really $60? I thought they were $100 in my country.. Edit: That “FreeSoldier” shoes are copies of the Oakley LW Assault 2…

[@kartuni877]

Do tactical Headlamp

[@jakemontell.7415]

I got Merrell Moabs. Love em. Comfy. Inexpensive. Salomon xa mid (not in gtx because I'm in Georgia. Too hot for that lol) and speedcross 6 forces in ranger green cuz...green and tan boots look best in the woods lol. Don't forget to wear darn tough socks

[@goonfromco8521]

Remember boys Gortex Whortex Stay wet Leather for the dub

[@MikkiThaiGuy13]

Water no 1

[@HOLDFASTBEAR]

Waterproof boots in south Texas is no bueno 🥵

[@isaacwillkillsquirrels6886]

Hey guys

[@R3D_Lantern]

Why mid? I don't know anyone who wears a mid tactical boot.

[@adamk8376]

I don't work a tactical job per say but most people I know in EMS we tend to wear mid tactical style boots for work.

[@R3D_Lantern]

Everyone in the army wears the high 8in boots. I guess thats what I'm just used to seeing.

[@danielney6]

More mobility, lighter weight for example… if talking about ems/leo/patrole/urban area… 8” or higher for “green warfare” because more support and load bearing and less shit that will come inside the boot…usually… but as always…. IT DEPENDS!

[@akihikouematsu773]

Watch one of the Avatar 2 way of water scenes where the Naavi marines dress like Afghanistan military veterans😂

[@discult6981]

Anyone else think Cameron looks like M shadows from Avenged 7x

[@SireOnesixone]

True or false. I heard rumors that during the desert storm, Timberland supplied the soldiers with boots.

[@driceproductions5304]

Merrill gang in the house

[@tylerthegreat5159]

Does anyone else think that Israel kinda looks like Alex from Modern Warfare (2019)🤔

[@jamesgray143]

Trx Adidas boost boots.

[@Xaviier9090]

Hey Issy what are your thoughts on living in California?

[@IsraelWright]

The weather is nice. Lot's of opportunities in the city areas, Lots of outdoor adventure options. VERY expensive to live, LOTS of homelessness, LOTS of crime. Doesn't agree with my politics.

[@MisterNi]

Good video Cam and Izzy, but tactical boots? I'm pretty sure the SWAT guys and gals already know what tactical boots to wear. Because in the military you'll be issued a good pair of combat boots and dress shoes. Otherwise sneakers and flip-flops for me. 😛 Well and occasionally dress shoes, despite how uncomfortable they are.