Ray,

 

I currently wear the Bates C3 8" side zip at work, (8-16 hours a day inside a jail). One of the most comfortable boots I've worn during my career. They are vented in the soles, which really helps during the hot months.

 

http://www.batesfootwear.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/21483M/0/Mens/C3-8-inch-Side-Zip-Boot?dimensions=0

 

Ive also worn the Tactical Sport boot from Bates for a long time. Also very light weight and comfortable. You should also check out the Oakley Duty boot. I haven't tried them yet personally, but a few co-workers have and they love them. Added bonus, if you are military, police, fire, or I believe EMT, they have a dedicated website for us. Tremendous savings. PM me for details.

 

http://www.oakley.com/store/products/men/footwear/military-duty

Wow, lots of options here! I'm wondering if a trip to Cabela's to try a few pairs on might seal the deal. I hate buying shoes over the net without trying them on.

 

Thanks guys

How come I see no mention of Red Wings?

 

These have been the best boot I've ever worn for the past 15 years - 7 days a week for 10 to 12 hours a day - I get about 2 years per pair out of them.

I'm on a construction site 4 out of 7 days a week.

I wear model 2414 -- Water proof the full height of the boot -- Uninsulated but they do have the same boot insulated I just prefer uninsulated -- I rarely get cold feet --

Protection from Nail penetration thru the sole -- toe protection -- the sole is more like a sneaker -- very comfortable

 

If you've never tried them I would suggest a trip to your local red wind dealer before taking the drive to Hamburg.

 

Now, I have to admit, I've never tried most of the boot mentioned here -- In the past 15 years I've had no reason to.

+1 for the 5.11 Tactical ATAC 8" zip-up boots.

 

Lightweight

Super comfortable (feel like sneakers)

Zipper makes it easy to remove

Composite Toe

Excellent tread

Hidden compartment

 

Got them for a great price on ebay.

I think I'm sticking with my Danner boots, they've taken a beating and I'm still rocking them. Only thing is I had to buy new boot laces because the original ones where all chewed up.

Avoid altamas. Sub par construction boot fell apart after 3 months at work. Underarmour makes good boots. Feel like sneakers but give you the support of boot. I like them but not great for stomping steel and concrete all day. Oakley makes good bootable also but I find then better for out door applications. If I had to buy ones for kicking in doors and and all weather situations I would go Oakley 100%