Best Combat Boot? (Vanity)

self | 05/07/2005 | Neutrino

[Blue Jays]

Hi All-

I'm in the market as well for a durable pair of black boots that will work suitably for tough rural work, urban use in poor weather conditions, and can be worn on my motorcycle in a pinch for short rides where I want protective footwear besides specialized motorcycle boots. With that in mind, I'm considering the White's Boots Lace-to-Toe Smokejumpers below.

They're a bit pricey at nearly $400.00, but obviously top-of-the-line and can be completely rebuilt a few years from now. Check the picture to see how the lugged sole is sewn, screwed, and glued to the upper. How much stronger can one get? They're apparently used by wildland firefighters, soldiers, hunters, and others in rough conditions.

I'm also considering some of the Danner models to get a bit of price relief...which would save me about $100.00 as compared to the awesome White's Boots model above. Danner also enjoys a great reputation among outdoor enthusiasts. Here is the double-thickness Super Rain Forest in the 10" version:

Any other suggestions would be sincerely appreciated! Let me know what choices have worked well for everyone else.

~ Blue Jays ~

[usmcobra]

I had mine handmade in Korea to fit my feet, complete with a hidden pocket inside for stuff (Razor blade, Dogtag, P-38)

[HolgerDansk]

All of Danner's boots used to be made in USA. Sadly, they've recently started importing from China. I have a seven year old pair of Danner mountaineering boots; Vibram soles, steel shank, Gore-tex and Thinsulate. They're my sole footwear when I'm in the mountains of northwest Montana. Not sure what I'll do when they wear out -- some day.

[Blue Jays]

Hi HolgerDansk-

There wasn't any definitive information on the Danner website with regard to where all their boots are built. I know the headquarters is still in Portland, Oregon (also the home of Langlitz Leathers...very cool) but that doesn't speak to whether they outsource. If anything, I might guess that the lower-tier models might come from elsewhere.

At the same time, we have to be willing to pay for quality if that is what we desire. It is just taking me quite a bit of courage to pony-up the big bucks for the excellent boots I pictured above. White's Boots offers a great explanation about support, but I'm wondering if that heel just looks a bit bizarre.

~ Blue Jays ~

[Blue Jays]

Just researched the Wesco Firestormer and they look like they would similarly be a prudent choice. Same price range since they're $379.00 in stock configuration.

Wesco Firestormer

~ Blue Jays ~

[combat_boots]

Definitely not my color. ;>

Combat_Boots

[mad_as_he$$]

Red wings aren't what they used to be.