13 best bates hiking boots

Bates is a well-known brand that specializes in producing military and tactical footwear, including hiking boots. Their hiking boots are designed to offer durability, comfort, and performance, making them suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking, and other rugged pursuits. Here are some key features and characteristics associated with Bates hiking boots:

  1. Durability: Bates hiking boots are typically constructed with high-quality materials that are built to withstand rough terrain and harsh weather conditions. They are known for their longevity, making them a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

  2. Comfort: These boots often incorporate cushioned insoles and padding to provide comfort during long hikes or extended wear.The design takes into consideration the need for arch support and proper cushioning to reduce fatigue.

  3. Traction: Bates hiking boots are designed with rugged outsoles that offer excellent traction on various surfaces, ensuring a stable and secure footing even in challenging environments.

  4. Waterproofing: Some models of Bates hiking boots come with waterproof or water-resistant features, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions and preventing discomfort.

  5. Versatility: While primarily designed for hiking, these boots are versatile and can be used in various outdoor activities, such as camping, hunting, and military operations. Their rugged construction makes them suitable for demanding tasks.

  6. Styles and Sizes: Bates offers a variety of styles and sizes to cater to different preferences and foot sizes. You can find both low-cut and high-cut options, as well as wide width sizes for those who need additional room.

  7. Quality Control: Bates is known for its commitment to quality control, ensuring that each pair of boots meets the company's standards for performance and durability.

  8. Military and Tactical Use: Bates also manufactures boots specifically tailored for military and tactical purposes. These boots often come with additional features like side zippers for quick on/off access and meet specific military standards for durability and functionality.

In summary, Bates hiking boots are a reputable choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and individuals in need of reliable and durable footwear. With a focus on quality, comfort, and performance, these boots have gained a strong reputation in the market, particularly within the military and tactical footwear categories.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bates hiking boots on the market
  

Bates Men's 8" Ultralite Tactical Sport Side Zip Military Boot

Bates Tactical Footwear

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

One of Bates most popular styles, this classic 8" tactical boot features a side zip for easy on and off.

  • 70% Leather, 30% Nylon
  • Imported
  • Rubber sole
  • YKK side zipper for quick on/off
  • Slip resistant rubber outsole
  • Durable leather and performance nylon upper
  • Moisture wicking, breathable lining

User questions & answers

Question: How would these feel backpacking with a 50 pound pack
Answer: I use mine to Hike the national Parks and mountains carrying 40-50lbs of camera gear and water. These are military grade in my opinion and I love them. They are what I wear 95% of the time
Question: Is it water proof
Answer: You'll be hard pressed to find any boot that is truly waterproof. Water resistant would be a better term. If you want waterproof, get muck boots
Question: Does this boot come with a composite toe since it is a work boot
Answer: It does not. This is the Ultra-Lite model so it is built to be light. They do make other models with comp toe if needed.
Question: These boots squeak very loudly on linoleum flooring. How can I fix this
Answer: Designed as military boots. No known battles ever fought on a linoleum surface. Adjust your expectations. These are great boots. You want quiet. Buy sneakers

Bates Men's Combat Hiker

Bates

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Men's mountain combat hiker featuring Nubuck leather.

  • 100% Leather
  • Vibram sole
  • Leather and nylon uppers
  • Gore Tex waterproof lining
  • Slip resistant
  • Cement construction
  • Vibram Mutant rubber outsole

User questions & answers

Question: Will there be 8.5 or 9 Regular in stock any time soon
Answer: no, they have been discontinued
Question: Is this boot going to be available in 10w any time soon
Answer: The Bates run VERY narrow. If you need a 10W, order a 10XW if they have them.

Bates 3612 Mens Olive Mojave Combat Hiker Boots 9.5 E US

Bates

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This boot is perfect for mountainous environments such as Afghanistan, where sharp rocks and debris abound. The tough full-grain leather upper protects against abrasions and tears. The aggressively lugged Vibram Bifida outsole provides superior traction across a wide range of terrain. No matter what the terrain, the Bates Combat Hiker is ready to go.

  • Rubber sole
  • Durable, breathable full-grain Nubuck leather and tear-resistant 1000 denier Cordura nylon upper
  • Dri-Lex breathable, anti-bacterial, moisture-wicking lining
  • Elighten-U foam insole provides strong foot support and excellent cushion
  • Durable and abrasion resistant rubber rand allows the ability tokick step in snow and ice
  • Removable single density polyurethane cushion insert provides comfort as it cushions foot with every strike

Bates Men's Tora Bora Alpine Boot Hiking Boot

Bates

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Get out in the elements in Bates's Tora Bora Alpine boot. Engineered in partnership with US Special Operations, this rugged offering boasts everything you need in the wilderness: a Wolverine Warrior Leather and SuperFabric upper, a waterproof GORE-TEX lining, Thinsulate insulation and a cushioned removable insert. An aggressively treaded Vibram sole keeps you surefooted on any terrain in Bates.

Founded in 1885 as a dress shoe manufacturer, today Bates Footwear is dedicated to the development and manufacturing of uniform footwear for all branches of the military and civilian police forces. In 2003, the company joined the billion-dollar footwear giant, Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. and is headquartered in Rockford, Michigan. Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. is one of the world’s leading marketers of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport and uniform footwear. The company’s portfolio of highly recognized brands includes: Bates, Chaco, Cushe, Hush Puppies, HYTEST, Merrell, Sebago and Wolverine. The company is also the exclusive footwear licensee of popular brands including Cat Footwear, Harley-Davidson Footwear, and Patagonia Footwear. The company’s products are carried by leading retailers in the U.S. and globally in 190 countries or territories.

  • 100% Leather and fabric
  • Synthetic sole
  • insulated
  • slip-resistant

User questions & answers

Question: does it have a steel toe or any kind of safety shield
Answer: No safety toe, just the rubber cap
Question: How does the sizing run? Comparable to sneaker or more military
Answer: THESE RUN TRUE TO MEASURED SHOE SIZE

Bates Men's Terrax3 Hot Weather Military and Tactical Boot

Bates

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The TerraX3 is a heavy duty Berry Compliant boot made with an ASTM F2413-11 composite toe. This durable hot weather boot features abrasion resistant flesh-out cattle hide leather and a breathable moisture wicking lining along with a Vibram® outsole. This style is also AR670-1 Compliant, built specifically to meet military specifications.

  • 100% Leather
  • Rubber sole
  • Shaft measures approximately Ankle" from arch
  • Boot opening measures approximately 5 around
  • Abrasion Resistant Flesh-Out Cattle Hide Leather Breathable and Moisture Wicking Lining
  • ASTM F2413-11 Rated Composite Toe for Safety and Protection Electrical Hazard Protection
  • Cushioned Midsole for Added Comfort Proprietary Vibram Rubber Outsole (FOD Approved) Proudly Manufactured in the USA
  • AR670-1 Compliant. As an option to issue boots, soldiers may wear commercial boots of a design similar to the Army combat boot as authorized by the commander.

User questions & answers

Question: do the boots run true to size
Answer: We have heard that they do.

Bates Men's 5" Ultralite Tactical Sport Military Boot

Bates

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

One of Bates most popular styles, this classic 8" tactical boot features a side zip for easy on and off and cushioned removable insert for extra comfort.

  • 70% Leather, 30% Nylon
  • Synthetic sole
  • Slip resistant rubber outsole
  • Durable leather and performance nylon upper
  • Moisture wicking, breathable lining
  • Removable cushioned insert
  • Lightweight cushioned EVA midsole

User questions & answers

Question: What is 3E and D(M) can someone tell me the difference
Answer: Hello, that is a good question. The 3E is a wide, D is a regular, and M is narrow. These are not the designations I would assign to them however it is the industry standard. What I tell people is if you have never known about widths you are a most likely a regular.
Question: Do these have a zipper or not? The description says they do, but the pictures don't show one
Answer: No they do not have a zipper
Question: steel toe
Answer: No
Question: Are these boots metal detector friendly ? Where I work you have to go through a metal detector in an out and I dont want to have to take my boots off
Answer: Metal friendly!You should be good. I go threw the same

Product features

Bates Tactical Sport Ultra-Lite
Bates DRYGuard waterproofing

The proprietary Bates DRYGuard membrane delivers full waterproof technology while still being breathable to keep your feet cool and comfortable longer. DRYGuard is available in most Tactical Sport Ultra-Lite styles. Non-waterproof styles also available.

Side zip for quick on/off

Designed with a side zipper that lasts day after day and can stand up to any mission. Side zip available in both 5’’ and 8’ Tactical Sport Ultra-Lite styles. Non-side zip styles also available

Lightweight for all day comfort and traction

The lightweight rubber outsole is both slip resistant and oil resistant. Built to last, the deep lugs on the outsole give you the grip and traction you count on in the roughest conditions.

Bates Men's Gx-8 Gore-Tex Insulated Waterproof Boot

Bates

Based on 705 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A durable waterproof side zip boot that is perfect for all seasons. Featuring a strong, waterproof and breathable gore-tex® lining, your feet will stay protected, comfortable and dry. Insulated for all day warmth.

Founded in 1885 as a dress shoe manufacturer, today Bates Footwear is dedicated to the development and manufacturing of uniform footwear for all branches of the military and civilian police forces. In 2003, the company joined the billion-dollar footwear giant, Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. and is headquartered in Rockford, Michigan. Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. is one of the world’s leading marketers of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport and uniform footwear. The company’s portfolio of highly recognized brands includes: Bates, Chaco, Cushe, Hush Puppies, HYTEST, Merrell, Sebago and Wolverine. The company is also the exclusive footwear licensee of popular brands including Cat Footwear, Harley-Davidson Footwear, and Patagonia Footwear. The company’s products are carried by leading retailers in the U.S. and globally in 190 countries or territories.

  • 100% Leather and synthetic
  • Made in USA or Imported
  • Rubber sole
  • Shaft measures approximately ankle-high" from arch
  • Boot opening measures approximately 14" around
  • Ankle-high waterproof boot with leather and ballistic nylon upper featuring interior side zip closure with hook-and-loop strap
  • Lightly padded collar

User questions & answers

Question: Difference between these boots and bates men's gx-8 8 inch ultra-lites gtx waterproof boot
Answer: These are insulted, 200mg of Thinsulate, I love them. Have tried other boots always come back to Bates insulated boots,
Question: Can i sprint in a marathon with these boots
Answer: Even those these boots are comfortable after break in, hold up real well under a work load all day, they are not designed for that kind of use.I've run very short distances in them with no problems, but I think a marathon might be to much.
Question: Is 3e the wide width? Same as ee
Answer: Well, I thought 3E was triple E but they are barely an E in my opinion so I weould say NO. They feel like an E to me
Question: how do they perform on hot climate
Answer: I will be wearing ultralights when it warms up. These are great winter boots but will be to hot in the warmer months.

Bates Footwear Men's Shock FX

Bates

Based on 132 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Bates® Shock FX boot has a ruggedly durable construction that will keep you protected and comfortable all throughout your work day. Waterproof leather and nylon upper with protective TPU side panels. Style number: E07011. Non-metallic boot style is undetectable in electronic security environments. Waterproof membrane bootie construction keeps out the wet elements for drier, more comfortable foot environment. Traditional lace-up design for a secure fit. Mesh tongue provides added breathability. Cement construction. Bates Anti-Fatigue Endurance Performance System is a four-part anti-fatigue technology that delivers comfort and desired durability. Multi-terrain rubber outsole with pronounced lug pattern for superior slip resistance. Outsole passed the SATRA WTM 144 test for slip resistance. Imported. Measurements: Weight: 1 lb 9 oz Shaft: 7 in Product measurements were taken using size 11, width EE - Wide. Please note that measurements may vary by size. Weight of footwear is based on a single item, not a pair.

  • Leather and Textile
  • Imported
  • Rubber sole
  • Shaft measures approximately 6.25" from arch
  • Durable waterproof leather and performance nylon upper
  • Breathable waterproof membrane with a moisture wicking lining
  • Multi terrain slip resistant rubber lug outsole

User questions & answers

Question: are these safety boots for work
Answer: These are not steel toe boots.
Question: Do they have side zipper
Answer: Nope. Yet I have the black leather version that does the low cut version used in Blade Runner 2049 the zipper is useless.
Question: i wear size 9-9.5, in bates military8.5 works for me are all boots run Consistent
Answer: hello, my size is always the same even in bats, I recommend size 9
Question: Are these boots approved to wear with army ocp
Answer: No they're too low yet most guys deployed don't give a crap! WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WE’RE ON PATROL IN THE MOST DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENT KNOWN TO MAN... WHAT ARE YOU GONNA DO TO US?!?

Bates Men's GX-8 Gore-Tex Waterproof Side Zip Boot

Bates Tactical Footwear

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A durable waterproof side zip boot that is perfect for all seasons. This style features a non-metallic composite toe for protection and a cushioned insert for added comfort.

Founded in 1885 as a dress shoe manufacturer, today Bates Footwear is dedicated to the development and manufacturing of uniform footwear for all branches of the military and civilian police forces. In 2003, the company joined the billion-dollar footwear giant, Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. and is headquartered in Rockford, Michigan. Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. is one of the world’s leading marketers of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport and uniform footwear. The company’s portfolio of highly recognized brands includes: Bates, Chaco, Cushe, Hush Puppies, HYTEST, Merrell, Sebago and Wolverine. The company is also the exclusive footwear licensee of popular brands including Cat Footwear, Harley-Davidson Footwear, and Patagonia Footwear. The company’s products are carried by leading retailers in the U.S. and globally in 190 countries or territories.

  • 70% Leather, 30% Nylon
  • Imported
  • Rubber sole
  • Breathable waterproof GORE-TEX membrane with moisture wicking lining
  • YKK side zipper for quick on/off
  • Slip resistant rubber outsole
  • Waterproof full grain leather and performance nylon upper with protective panels

User questions & answers

Question: Do they breath well (cool in the summer)? Do they go under a motorcycle shifter without any trouble
Answer: Can't speak to the motorcycle shifter since I don't ride, but to me they're very comfortable in the summer. I find them to be very, very close to as comfortable (both in terms of breathable and wearable) as most any shoes except running shoes. As long as I'm not being super active, I'm good wearing them any time of year.
Question: How comfortable are these in HOT weather? Do they get overly warm in summer wear
Answer: Sorry I thought it was a question from Amazon. I wear these year round for the support they give my ankles. Summer I wear a lighter sox they can get warm if you are working hard but not unlike a regular boot. I go through 3 to 4 pair a year because I put wide hardshell orthotics in them and wear them for work. It is a great boot for everything.
Question: does bates still have water proof boots with side zip with a flap over the zipper
Answer: The Bates GX-8 8 inch Ultra Lite has a side zip w/a flap over the zipper. I live in an area that gets heavy rain, they ARE waterproof.
Question: What does d(m) and 3E mean in reference to sizing
Answer: 3E refers to width and is for a wide foot. I have a wide foot so 3e works great for me whereas a d width is often to narrow.

Product features

GORE-TEX waterproof and warmth

Built with a breathable and waterproof GORE-TEX membrane that stands up to any weather to keep your feet warm and dry. Plus a moisture wicking lining that actively pulls moisture away from your feet to deliver all day comfort.

Side zip for quick on/off

YKK side zipper for easy on and easy off lasts day after day. Side zip available in GX-8 styles. Non-side zip available in the GX-4 style.

Tactical, slip resistant, durable outsole

The rugged rubber outsole provides traction when you need it most and is built to last. Slip resistant with deep lugs, the tactical outsole delivers athletic performance in any condition without sacrificing protection from the elements.

Bates GX-4 and GX-8 GORE-TEX Boots

The Bates GX-4 and GX-8 provide everything you need in a waterproof tactical boot. These boots are built with waterproof leather and nylon AND boast the breathable GORE-TEX membrane along with a moisture wicking lining. If you're looking for long lasting, comfortable, waterproof boots, look no further than the Bates GX line of boots.

Bates Men's 8" Maneuver Hot Weather Side Zip Fire and Safety Boot

Bates

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Featuring our ops10 platform giving you athletic performance with uncompromising durability.

  • 80% Leather, 20% Nylon
  • Imported
  • Vibram sole
  • Shaft measures approximately mid-calf from arch
  • The OPS10 platform with 10mm heel drop for athletic performance.
  • YKK side zipper for quick on/off
  • Vibram rubber outsole with PU core

Product features

Uncompromising Durability

Waterproof leather and tactical performance nylon deliver a lasting advantage in the field.

Performance Cooling

Quantum5 moisture wicking and cooling lining keep feet an average of 5° cooler.

Superior Traction

Exclusive Vibram outsole provides grip and traction in unforgiving terrains.

Best of the Best

Day in and day out, you show up – ready to take on anything that’s thrown at you. When you have to rely on your training and instincts, your boots need to give you the advantage and protection against unpredictable elements. Performance nylon and premium leather upper with Quantum5 lining provides relentless durability and all-day comfort. The OPS10 platform and Ortholite X40 insole provide ground connection and stability like never before. The exclusive Vibram outsole delivers superior traction in the most demanding environments. Take on the world in the Bates Maneuver.

Bates Men's 11" Paratrooper Side Zip Boot

Bates

Based on 805 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Founded in 1885 as a dress shoe manufacturer, today Bates Footwear is dedicated to the development and manufacturing of uniform footwear for all branches of the military and civilian police forces. In 2003, the company joined the billion-dollar footwear giant, Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. and is headquartered in Rockford, Michigan. Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. is one of the world’s leading marketers of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport and uniform footwear. The company’s portfolio of highly recognized brands includes: Bates, Chaco, Cushe, Hush Puppies, HYTEST, Merrell, Sebago and Wolverine. The company is also the exclusive footwear licensee of popular brands including Cat Footwear, Harley-Davidson Footwear, and Patagonia Footwear. The company’s products are carried by leading retailers in the U.S. and globally in 190 countries or territories.

  • 100% Leather
  • Rubber sole
  • Shaft measures approximately 11" from arch
  • zippers

User questions & answers

Question: i work at a prison is their any metal in these boots
Answer: I dont own this boot yet, but if it has a metal shank (which I dont think) it would set off the metal detector, if these corrections officers have access to a XRAY, they could verify.
Question: is the boot padded at the top
Answer: No padding at top but still a comfortable boot.
Question: Hey. Are these shoes suitable for women
Answer: I think these are very suitable for women.
Question: Can you get these in steel toe
Answer: Negative

Product features

Bates 11" Paratrooper Side Zip Boot
Leather Upper

Full grain leather upper is durable, easy to maintain, and clean.

Side Zip

Medial side zip for easy on and easy off.

Polishable Toe

Easy to polish and maintain.

Bates Technologies

Built with premium materials and designed for performance.

Bates Technologies

Built using premium materials and designed for performance.

Bates Men's Raide Sport Fire and Safety Boot

Bates

Based on 31 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Built like a true running shoe, The Bates rawhide gives you a dynamic fit with an 8mm heel drop. A foam insole is combined with an Ortholite high rebound removable insert for superior cushion. The streamlined upper design features stain and scuff resistant Warrior leather. The mesh panels provide maximum breathability, while the slip-resistant outsole and its cushioned midsole deliver a smooth ride! The rawhide sport is designed for any off-duty urban environment.

  • Leather/Nylon
  • Imported
  • Rubber sole
  • Shaft measures approximately mid-calf from arch
  • Oil; stain and abrasion resistant wolverine Warrior leather performance nylon upper with durable mesh panels and tongue for added breathability
  • Moisture wicking lining X40 orhtolite removable cushioned insert for added comfort in every step
  • Molded TPU heel cup for improved stabilization lightweight CUSH I one

Bates Men's Rush Mid Military and Tactical Boot

Bates

Based on 116 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Rush is designed to respond to the speed of the job. At its core, a running shoe, but built with the performance of a tactical boot. A lightweight breathable upper actively cools, while the 4 mm heel-to-toe drop provides the ultimate ground connection and stability. Finished with a grippy rubber outsole and directional lugs for quick lateral movements. The Rush is ready for action.

  • Rubber sole
  • Shaft measures approximately Ankle from arch
  • Boot opening measures approximately 6" around
  • Light yet strong support: Hot welded TPU overlays. 4mm heel to toe drop.
  • Open cell mesh upper for greater air flow. Rubber outsole has the perfect balance of grip and durability
  • EVA wedge midsole with a wider base for increased stability. Moisture wicking lining actively pulls moisture away from the foot.
  • Strobel foam construction for all day comfort. Mold full length arch support.
  • Directional outsole lugs for laterial response and movement. Molded heel cup locks your foot in. Removable Ortholite footbed.

User questions & answers

Question: Are these true to size fit
Answer: No run small
Question: Do these boots come with a warranty
Answer: I don’t know. They are great now. My shoes last 6 months to a year and I hope to get that much with these and I would diffidently get another pair.
Question: Do They run small and narrow I wear 10.5 wide boot what size should I get
Answer: I have wide feet and wear size 9 and they fit very well for me. I can also wear up to 9.5 (43) so I'd say that they don't run small. The material is soft and light so doesn't crush your foot from the sides.
Question: Do these boots come with a warranty
Answer: I truly don't think they do I will say I did return these as they were very lightweight but not very durable. I ended up going with the Bates GX4 gortex and they are awesome

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