Police officers need footwear that can withstand the demands of their job while providing comfort, support, and functionality. An essential part of their gear are tactical boots which is why choosing the right pair can make a significant difference in their performance. In this blog post, we will explore the key features to look for and important considerations when selecting the best boots for your role in the UK police force.
Durability
Police officers require boots that can withstand the requirements of their daily tasks, so ensure to look for boots that are made from high-quality materials such as full-grain leather or durable synthetic fabrics or containing Gore-Tex lining. These materials will offer excellent durability, resistance to abrasion, as well as a good layer of protection against harsh weather conditions.
You also require safety boots in your force and so you will need to look into toe caps and plates that add a layer of safety to your boots which will often appear in two materials: Steel or Composite. Do be careful when looking at safety footwear as some forces in the UK will strictly not allow them.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is essential for officers as you’ll be spending long hours on their feet and therefore your feet need to be taken care of. Look for boots with cushioned insoles and shock-absorbing midsoles which will help to reduce fatigue and provide better ankle support too. Additionally, consider boots with a removable, moisture-wicking lining that helps keep feet dry and prevents odours. One tip is never to leave your boot near a radiator as it can affect the leather on your boots.
Waterproof and Breathable
We all know how unpredictable the weather can be in the UK, so it's crucial to choose boots that are both waterproof and breathable. Technologies such as Gore-Tex will provide excellent water resistance while allowing moisture and heat to escape. You may see this abbreviated to ‘GTX’ so ensure to look out for this in boot as this is a highly rated waterproof feature. Waterproof boots are also good to have in the summer as they’re breathable and moisture-wicking which means your feet can stay cool and breathable on those hotter days.
Quick On/Off
In emergency situations, you need boots that can be taken on and off in seconds which is why side zips and quick-lace systems were made! These features allow for a much smoother response in these emergencies and so do think about this when looking for your next or first pair of tactical footwear. Additionally to this, you may consider boots with reinforced eyelets that will ensure the laces are not wearing the fabric away from the constant abrasion in use.
Selecting the right tactical boots is the first step for UK police officers and by prioritising the features laid out above, officers can protect their feet and focus on their essential duties. Some of our most popular boot categories are listed below:
