Summary
From our experience while using the Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Tactical Boots, we have discovered that the amazingly lightweight structure is a significant contributor to the boots’ comfortable feel. The side zip makes putting on and removing the boots very easy – a huge help during those times when I was in a hurry and dealing with laces would only add to the time consumption. The exclusive ankle support system enhances the snug fit and gave me more confidence to move around without worrying about twisting my ankle with every sudden move. The boot has a version without the side zipper and might be a better choice if you prefer working with laces and do not want the zipped structure. Another option that you may want to consider is this boot’s waterproof version that keeps wetness from seeping into the interior and will be more suitable for working in wet conditions or outdoors under the rain. The Thowi Men’s Military Tactical Boots with Zipper and the CQR Men’s Military Tactical Boots are also great options for reliable waterproof protection. Meanwhile, the Original SWAT Alpha Fury 8-Inch Side Zip Tactical Boots offer a similarly comfortable and lightweight structure without any metallic components that will cause issues with metal detectors.
The Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side Zip Tactical Boots are built to promote quick movements that may be required in tense situations while on duty and in other instances when speed and agility are essential. These boots are almost unbelievably lightweight, and I often forgot that these were originally created for tactical and military use because of how comfortable they were. The lightweight structure is combined with excellent ankle support for improved stability and overall comfort that makes these boots feel like running shoes. This boot is not waterproof, however, and although there is a version that comes with a waterproof bootie lining, it does not have a side zipper for enhancing convenience. Below we will get into the nitty-gritty of our experience while using the Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side Zip Tactical Boots to showcase which features stood out, and which ones need to be improved.
For sneaker-like comfort that’s designed to support you all day long, you can’t go wrong with this extremely lightweight boot choice.
Performance Analysis
Comfort
What stands out the most about this boot is how comfortable it is. The boot feels more like the athletic sneakers that are used for running and it was quite easy for me to forget that it was originally crafted for use in military and tactical duties. Without the heaviness associated with more rugged boots, this pair made moving around much easier to do without the additional weight to contribute to awkward movements.
Walking around or standing all day long is not a problem with these boots, which are equipped with an exclusive ankle support system that hugs the ankle for a better fit that also increases overall stability.
This support system is designed to follow the contours of the ankle for a customized feel, making it seem like the boot was designed specifically for my comfort needs. The sock liner with the memory foam top molds to the shape of the foot for continuous comfort that lasts for the entire day. It feels like a layer of second skin that offers the benefit of additional support. The proprietary midsole also contributes to the overall comfortability of the boot by delivering strong shock absorption and rebound while keeping a lightweight structure that doesn’t drag the feet down.
Weight
Coming in at a weight of 1.73 lbs. per pair, this is one of the most lightweight shoes I have ever used. What’s even more amazing is that the pair is not designed for athletic use and is instead used by military and law enforcement personnel while on duty in a variety of challenging environments. The lightweight structure is aimed at promoting speed and efficiency that can be crucial during tense situations in military and tactical duties but works just as well for other purposes in civilian settings. I enjoyed walking around in these boots because of their extremely lightweight construction. Without bulky footwear to weigh my feet down, it was easy to forget that I had tactical shoes on while I did various activities throughout the day. A lightweight TPU shank delivers a reliable rigidity to support the foot with every movement but does not add considerable weight to prevent the boot from feeling too heavy and bulky.
Traction
Walking around on different floor conditions is not a problem with this boot because it is equipped with a rubber lug outsole that prevents slipping accidents. This outsole provides strong traction without the extra bulk and weight associated with soles that have more aggressive treads. I did not encounter any problems walking on different surfaces using these boots because the rubber soles had a strong grip on the ground, although the low-profile treads may not be suitable for more rugged terrain or in more challenging environments where there is mud or mulch. The lightweight structure of the soles makes quick movements easier to achieve without the need to exert considerable effort in the process.
Fit and Sizing
These Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side Zip Tactical Boots are true to size – they fit perfectly right out of the box, taking any guesswork out of the buying process. The 7-inch shaft is a bit higher than the average work boot, delivering increased coverage and protection from the elements and hazards that can be encountered in military or tactical operations, or when doing other activities in challenging environments. This high shaft also works with the proprietary ClutchFit technology to embrace the ankle like a second skin that feels superbly comfortable. This technology also keeps the ankle fully supported, which is a great benefit when moving quickly across difficult ground conditions where it is easy to twist the ankle without the required support in place. A TPU toe cap is fitted onto the boot to provide protection against abrasion, although it is not enough to protect against serious injuries when sharp or heavy objects fall on the foot. This flexible toe cap did not get in the way of natural movement the way more rigid boot components can. A welded PU film offers increased abrasion resistance for the boot’s perimeter to keep the footwear protected even in tough work environments. I especially liked the side zipper because it eliminates the need for me to deal with the laces every time I put on and remove the boots.
Waterproofing
This is not a waterproof work boot, so it is not recommended for working in wet conditions, or for outdoor settings where there is a chance of being exposed to rain. As it does not prevent water and other liquids from penetrating the interior parts, the Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side Zip Tactical Boot is more suitable for dry environments where excessive moisture does not pose considerable danger to the feet even with long hours of working or focusing on various activities.
Breathability
The high shaft of this boot makes it a bit difficult for air to enter, so breathability may be a problem, especially with extended use. There is a chance that heat will build up within the boot without a breathable material to help keep the interior properly ventilated. The presence of the Ortholite sock liner does help a bit, as it has antimicrobial properties that can prevent bad odors from developing inside the boot, but this may not be as helpful with overheating issues that can cause a great deal of discomfort with all-day use.
Quality and Durability
The lightweight structure of this boot may be a big plus when it comes to comfortable use, but it lacks the sturdiness that is required for heavy-duty use in and out of the work area.
The low-profile rubber outsole has a lightweight structure that makes the boots as comfortable as running shoes.
Wearing these boots for a long time did not lead to any discomfort, especially with the flexible toe caps that allowed me to move however I wanted to, without getting in the way of my mobility.
However, these boots may not be as reliable as pairs that are equipped with rugged and aggressive outsoles that can easily take on any type of terrain or floor condition. With no waterproof components in place, the boots may easily get damaged when exposed to puddles of water, mud, or other substances.
Special mention should be given to the antimicrobial treatment incorporated into the sock liner. It helps keep the boot interior fresh for a long time, so I didn’t worry about the unwelcome surprise of foul odors even when I wore the boots for the entire day.
Other Versions
The Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side Zip Tactical Boots come in another version without the zipper on the side, which may be a better option for those who are more used to dealing with laces when putting on and getting off boots on a regular basis. There is also the Valsetz RTS 1.5 Waterproof Tactical Boots version that delivers superior protection against water and other liquid substances to guarantee that the feet will stay comfortably dry even in wet surroundings. The waterproof and side-zipped versions are available in black, while the non-waterproof version without the zipper is available in coyote brown, desert sand, and ridge reaper camo barren. These men’s tactical boots are available from size 8 (from 8.5 for the waterproof and non-zipped styles) to 14.
The Challengers
Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side Zip Tactical Boots
One of the top competitors of the Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side Zip Tactical Boots is the non-zippered version from the same brand. The Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Tactical Boots boast of the same lightweight construction that provides maximum comfort with no additional bulk or heaviness to deal with, along with the exclusive ankle support system that guarantees all-day stability when navigating various ground conditions. This second version does not have the side zipper so it may be more preferred by people who like to use laces when adjusting or putting on boots. However, with a price difference of approximately $5, you might be better off getting the zippered one that will offer more adjustability and convenience.
Valsetz RTS 1.5 Waterproof Tactical Boots
The next competitor comes from the same brand and is just another version of the Valsetz tactical boot we reviewed – this time enhanced with waterproofing. The Valsetz RTS 1.5 Waterproof Tactical Boots are fitted with a waterproof bootie liner that prevents water and liquids from penetrating so that the foot can remain dry and comfortable when surrounded by a wet environment. For an additional $10, you can enjoy the benefits of the side zippered version and the added protection of the waterproof choice.
Thowi Men’s Military Tactical Boots
The Thowi Men’s Military Tactical Boots with Zipper are another product worth considering. They come with a flexible and lightweight midsole for enhanced comfort without the heavy feeling even with all-day use. These are waterproof tactical boots that stop water from entering for long-lasting foot dryness and are fitted with a breathable lining to prevent overheating within the boot. The side zipper works for quick boot placement and removal, which is a necessity during crucial moments in and out of the field. At just under $100, these boots can deliver maximum comfort and protection without breaking the bank.
Original SWAT Alpha Fury 8-Inch Side Zip Tactical Boots
The Original SWAT Alpha Fury 8-Inch Side Zip Tactical Boots are another strong contender in the lightweight, side-zipped, comfortable tactical boot category. They have a no-stitch construction that delivers outstanding flexibility to keep you moving as freely and quickly as possible when the need arises, especially for military or law enforcement settings. A custom-molded toe box and heel counter protect the foot from pain for all-day comfort even on extended shifts. These boots don’t have metallic components, so they’re a suitable choice for professions that need footwear that won’t cause issues around metal detectors, including prison guards or TSA agents.
CQR Men’s Military Tactical Boots
The CQR Men’s Military Tactical Boots are constructed with water-repellent fabric for superior protection to keep the feet dry and safe within the boot in wet surroundings. The all-terrain outsole offers high traction to keep your footing steady in a variety of tough ground conditions and uneven terrain. The ankle-high protection delivers a snug fit that also provides the ankles with the required support to withstand heavy-duty performance activities.
Conclusion & Verdict
The Under Armour Valsetz RTS 1.5 Side Zip Tactical Boots are an outstanding choice that feel more like a pair of comfortable running shoes with their tactical boot construction. These boots make hours of walking and standing more manageable, as they work hard to surround the foot with remarkable ankle support to help prevent injuries while navigating challenging terrain. The cushioning and strong energy return provided is even more remarkable given the extremely lightweight construction. However, in this case, comfort comes with a price. Without waterproofing and safety toe protection in place, these boots won’t be able to deliver continuous protection from a number of hazards that may be present in tough work environments.
