My job as a contractor who travels to various commercial nuclear utilities requires that I wear leather-topped, steel or composite-toed safety shoes. I wear 100% metal-free boots (composite toe/shank) for comfort (lightweight) and to help streamline my daily process through security. My last boots, Red Wing's WORX 5266 were great. I've had them for about 2 years and have finally worn them out.
I was going to replace same with same, however I know that the Bates line is a favorite with the security force (many of whom are ex-military) so decided to try them out. I have large feet with almost no arch (thanks, dad!) so am cautious about buying footwear online. I placed my order late yesterday afternoon and paid the extra $3.99 for next-day delivery. They were on my doorstep at 10:00 this morning (free return, if needed). I opened up the outer box and the shoebox was in perfect condition. The boots themselves were even better than the pics depicted. Less Herman Munster-like than many out there, these boots look nice and are lightweight (nice when working 6 12-hr days for a month or two at a time). The double-stitching was perfect, the inserts made for comfort and fit, the soles provide a good solid grip, the quality leather seems to have a light coating to enhance water resistance (the instructions still advise wearer to polish regularly), and the tough, durable, padded fabric on the sides (with smooth, secured, inside zipper) provide breathability. I order men's boots for work and it is always a toss up whether a men's 9.5 or 10 will satisfy my dainty, girly feet. On a whim and a prayer (and taking the lead from a previous review), I ordered a 9.5M. Good choice as 10 would have been way too big (lengthwise). As it is, adding an insert (mainly for added comfort) gives a perfect fit for both length and width. I've been wearing these since they arrived this morning and will be working at breaking them in over the next couple days for an upcoming job (don't think I'll be needing that free return!).
Invest in quality footwear...take care of your feet and they will take care of you. I think I have found my new favorite work boots.
Hope this review helps!
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From the manufacturer
Bates Tactical Sport Ultra-Lite
The Bates Tactical Sport Ultra-lite just got better.
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Bates DRYGuard waterproofingThe 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/offDesigned 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 tractionThe 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. |
Reviews with images
Have been wearing these for 12+ years and probably wont stop. But not the same pair.
Update:Last pair lasted from August 2018 until December 2021. 3 years, 4 months.Current pair purchased December 2021 is going strong but could use some new insoles.By far the best boot I have ever put on my feet - in terms of comfort.I have owned 8 pairs of this exact boot over 12 years, and while that seems awfully high please let me explain.First, size.I have been in many an argument with shoe store sales people. I buy these in a 12. Period. They will insist that I then wear a size 12, period.However every other brand of shoe I have ever purchased has been a 13 to 13.5. Take that information as you will though, because those other brands are equally likely to just run large.Are these waterproof?Absolutely not. But I do have a waterproof model of Bates boots which have been flawless, though I only use them a couple times a year.Comfort?Day one, fresh out of the box, I put these on and go to work without a concern in the world.Longevity:Isn't as high as one might expect from a work boot, but its fine for the price with one caveat. My previous job had my boots exposed to various oil and antifreeze products plus inclement weather, road salt, chemicals, and miles of walking per day and these would last me just over a year before the bottom would start to peel loose.My current job however is indoors and while I put more miles on than ever before they are not subject to all the harsh conditions. I spend 9-12 hours a day on my feet on concrete floors and rarely find myself uncomfortable at the end of the day. As a result of staying out of the harsh conditions however the boots last me 2-3 years easily.I also wear them almost exclusively. They are so comfortable that I don't even bother to change out of them when I get off work. That's not something many boots can claim.My current pair was purchased August 2018, so 2.5 years and counting. See photo posted to this review.The caveat:Whether your employer reimburses you on them or not. If you have a harsh environment and no reimbursement, don't buy these. If they do, these might be well worth checking into at least once. If you are working indoors on your feet all day? Expect 2-3 years from them. Possibly more if you only wear them at work.As long as my employer continues to reimburse for work boots I will continue to buy this exact model and size of boot until the day I die or Bates stops selling them.
Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States on August 14, 2011
Top reviews from other countries
Amazon Customer
Order one size smaller than your tennis shoe size. It’ll fit great.
Reviewed in Canada on September 13, 2021Size: 9.5Color: BlackVerified Purchase
MD Stott
Five Stars
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Comfort
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Reviewed in Canada on November 4, 2017Size: 10.5Color: BlackVerified Purchase
