Bates Boots

[Moondancer]

Does anyone know much about Bates boots, specifically the Enforcer series with side zipper?

I'm interested in getting some, ahem, "tactical" boots, but realistically I won't be wearing them much and thus would like to avoid spending beaucomp bucks.

Local Meijer store has these for about $65.00. Are they worth it or are they junk?

Any other suggestions are welcomed!

 

[Lennyjoe]

I wear Bates Lites in uniform.

They last around 6 months max but thats on the flightline in the heat and all. Climbing ladders, walking on airplanes, pushing equipment and walking miles on end it seems.

The bottoms usually wear out the fastest of all the boots issued to me.

They are comfortable as heck though. Like wearing a pair of Nikes compared to a pair of K-Mart specials.

They seem to be made to last under normal circumstances. I wouldnt hesitate to buy a pair for personal tactical use.

 

[Med 10]

I also wear the Bates lites for duty boots. These boots see a wide variety of conditions in the fire/rescue buisness. Lennyjoe is correct about the comfort and average life span of the soles. The side zip is very durable and easy to use one handed, and they take a good shine. The insoles hold up very well and the boot has good arch support. Traction on a wide variety of surfaces is very good. these boots are very lite and comfy.

6 months is about all you will get out of these with heavy use. Mine are already wearing down quite a bit. overall these boots are great compared to Magnums which I have not had much luck with at all. Do not waste youre $ on Magnums.

As a fire/medic I put my boots through hell and demand a lot of them. I would suggest you buy a pair of Bates lites you wont be dissapointed.

 

[Med 10]

You might also try the thorogood line of duty boots. I have never owned any but my co-workers seem to like them. Also the Rockys are pretty much standard issue to a lot of Depts around here. The Rocky 911's have been used by tactical teams for years and come in a choice of soles.

just a few suggestions. Good luck. And remember, stay away from Magnums. I work in a 900 plus member F.D. and I cant remember seeing ONE pair of Magnums worn by anyone. The biggest complaints I hear about Magnums are loss of arch support after getting wet a few times, stiching coming loose after expose to wet conditions, easily scuffed, very poor soles, and insoles that dont dry out fast, they hold odor, side zips bindup, poor ankle support, and very sweaty feet in the waterproof models. These are not my personal opinions {even though I have experienced these problems,} but testimony from men and women in the fire/rescue service over the course of 4 years.

I'm saving up for some Danners that I can re-sole and they will be my next boot.

Later.