20 Best EMS Boots For EMTs (2023) – Men And Women
As an Emergency Medical Service (EMS) personnel, you will ultimately be responsible not only for people’s safety but, more crucially, their lives too. Not only that, since you will be working in a team, your colleague’s performance on the job will also depend on your overall performance. We believe being able to perform your BEST depends on feeling your BEST at all times. If you have been working in the industry for some time, you know how essential it is to have the best EMS boots on your feet. The right pair of boots WILL improve your overall performance on the job by providing comfort, reducing stress on your muscle/joints, and ensuring you have maximum flexibility when performing your responsibilities at work. With that said,
As you will learn, you will have several options available to you when it comes time to purchase your next pair of EMS boots. Here are the KEY features that you should consider when making your purchase:
Waterproof
As an Emergency Medical Service (EMS) personnel, you MAY be working in different challenging environments. It is recommended that you have a pair of EMS boots that are waterproof, so your FEET remain dry/odorless even in the harshest of conditions. Dry feet equals comfort, which in turn will allow you to PERFORM at your best. You will notice how most of our boots listed below are waterproof and have a proven track record of withstanding the most challenging working conditions.
Blood Borne Pathogen Proof
EMS Boots that are bloodborne pathogen-resistant will protect you from microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease. MOST of the pairs in our list of Best EMS Boots For EMTs are resistant to “Blood Borne Pathogen’s.”. Boots with this benefit will give you the peace of mind you need to PERFORM at your BEST when faced with areas with a lot of blood.
Memory Foam
EMS boots with memory foam conform to your feet, giving you a preferred FIT every single time. Another benefit of memory foam is that your boots DO NOT have to be worked in every time they are worn, so you get consistent comfort from day one (1). Don’t worry as our list of BEST EMS boots have boots with memory foam inserts.
Durability
It’s essential to choose a pair that stand the test of time. In the end, you are investing your hard-earned money into a pair. From our experience, the more durable the boots, the better they will PERFORM in the harshest weather conditions. Durability is also associated with longevity. The longer the pair of EMS boots last, the less time you will spend shopping for another pair. With that said, our list below only includes the BEST EMS boots that have a proven track record of durability.
Breathable
Breathability will give your feet much needed airflow during those long shifts. The airflow around your feet will reduce odor and discomfort while increasing your OVERALL performance.
Side-zipper
A side-zipper is a GREAT feature to ensure you get a preferred FIT every single time. For example, reduce the pressure on your feet by loosening the zip or tighten it for a more secure fit around your ankle. Not only that, but the side-zipper also makes it easy for you to slip your boots on/off quickly.
1) Thorogood Men’s Gen-flex2 Series 8″ Tactical Side Zip Jump Boot
The Thorogood Gen-Flex EMS boots are made from a tough leather upper with adjustable lacing to give you a preferred FIT every time. These boots also have a side zipper for easy on/off. The full-grain leather construction is durable which is essential when working in harsh conditions. Not only that, these Thorogood men’s EMS boots come with a removable insole in case you have your own custom orthotics. The EVA midsole is impressive because it helps disperse weight and provides stability for added comfort. Not to mention, the treaded rubber outsole is non-marking and slip-resistant.
Quick Features:
100% Leather
Rubber sole (maximum grip)
Polishable toe cap/heel counter
Removable Single-density footbed
Side-zipper
Composite shank
GEN-flex2 outsole
Goodyear Storm Welt construction
2) Under Armour Men’s Valsetz Military & Tactical Boot
The Under Armour Valsetz EMT tactical boots are considered one of the BEST Boots For EMTs. These boots are lightweight, durable, and breathable, allowing for airflow to PASS through, keeping your feet cool/odorless on those long-shifts. These Under Armour EMS boots come with “ClutchFit” support, which contours and protects your ankle region for added comfort. Not to mention, they have a TPU toe cap and ultralight Micro G EVA midsole that reinforces the TPU shank for stability and accurate disbursement of weight. Another impressive feature of these Under Armour Men’s Valsetz EMT boots is the Anti-odor technology applied to the molded Ortholitesockliner to prevent the growth of odor-causing microbes. These boots are absolutely amazing and definitely worth buying if you are an emergency service provider.
Quick Features:
UA ClutchFit ankle support system
TPU toe cap
Orothlite anti-microbial sockliner
Ultralight Micro G EVA midsole
Anti-odor technology
Lightweight
Durable
Breathable
High traction rubber
3) Danner Men’s Acadia 8″ Boot
Danner Men’s Acadia boots are 8” ankle EMS boots that are durable, breathable, and ULTRA comfortable. These boots utilize stitch-down construction, offering increased stability underfoot. These Danner EMS boots have a “Vibram” sole that has specifically been designed for durability and comfort. Not only that, but the sole provides EXCELLENT shock absorption to reduce stress on muscles and joints. The Danner Men’s Acadia 8″ EMS Boot has a shank made from Fiberglass. The Waterproof Gore-Tex lining ensures no water gets in when working in extreme weather conditions while allowing sweat and moisture to get out. Not to mention, the Kletterlift outsole is oil and slip-resistant, providing maximum grip for each step to ensure your safety.
Quick Features:
100% Leather and cordura
Vibram sole
Waterproof Gore-Tex lining
Supportive fiberglass shank
Breathable
Oil & Slip Resistant
Stitch-down construction
4) 5.11 Men’s ATAC 2.0 8″ Tactical Storm Military Boot, Style 12392, Black
These 5.11 tactical boots also have other impressive features like a side knife pocket, a side YKK zipper, which allows easy on and off without having to adjust for FIT every time you put your boots back on. These 5.11 EMT boots are available in wide-fit too!
Quick Features:
Zipper closure
Full-length dual durometer Ortholite footbed
Strobel construction
Ortholite Achilles cuff for comfort
SlipStream waterproof BBP membrane
Hidden knife pocket
Achilles heel flex zone
Lighter weight upper construction
Slip- and oil-resistant outsole
5) Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 Tactical Size Zip Boots
The Smith & Wesson Men’s Breach 2.0 tactical boots are an excellent choice for EMTs. These boots are durable, lightweight, and extremely comfortable. The padded collar protects the ankle and instep regions of the foot. These Smiths steel toe boots are also slip-resistant PERFECT for working in challenging environments. These shoes are also manufactured utilizing “Board-lasted” construction, where the upper is attached to the bottom of a flexible board on top of the midsole, making it more rigid and stable. Not to mention, the Smith & Wesson EMT tactical boots have a gusseted tongue, so you DON’T have to worry about dirt and debris getting into the boots. With that said,
These boots are considered one of the BEST boots for EMS. Two other features worth mentioning are: First, the EVA Midsole, which is light and comfortable, and secondly, the boots also come equipped with a steel shank for added support.
Quick Features:
Leather/nylon upper
PU Collar for easy cleaning
Foam-padded collar
Breathable
Gusseted tongue to keep dirt and debris out
EVA Midsole
Lightweight
Steel shank for superior support
Board-lasted construction
Slip-resistant
Non-marking rubber outsole
100% polyester laces
6) Under Armour Men’s Stellar Tac Side Zip Sneaker
The Under Armour EMT tactical boots are lightweight so you can move around with ease and are super-comfortable. Not to mention, they have a side zipper for ease of entry, giving you a preferred FIT every single time. The high-traction rubber outsole gives you maximum traction with every step you take, and the DWL finish on the shoe repels water. Hence, you stay dry even in the harshest of environments. Another impressive feature of these Under Armour waterproof boots is the Molded EVA midsole. This midsole is with reinforced TPU shank, which helps disperse weight and provides stability. The Tac Side Under Armour EMS boots are breathable for added airflow keeping your feet cool/odorless during those long shifts and have a polishable toe for uniform wear.
Quick Features:
Leather sole
DWR finish (repel water)
Molded EVA midsole
High-traction outsole
Breathable
Leather & 9D nylon for a soft & light upper
Side zipper
Quick-dry
7) Under Armour Men’s Infil Ops GORE-TEX
These Under Armour Infil EMT tactical boots are another EXCELLENT choice for emergency medical service providers. These are constructed from 100% leather with a full-length EVA midsole that helps disperse weight and provides stability. The Men’s Infil Under Armour EMS boots have a “Vibram” sole that has specifically been designed for durability and comfort. Not to mention, the Waterproof Gore-Tex lining ensures no water gets in so you are safe to work in the harshest of conditions. The Cupron® Anti-Fungal Pro Fibers reduce odor, so your feet stay FRESH even after working those long shifts. With that said,
Some other impressive features include a molded rubber toe cap to protect the front of your feet and a TPU stability chassis for heel lockdown & support. When you purchase the Under Armour Men’s Infil Ops EMT boots, your getting boots that are incredibly light, supportive, and comfortable.
Quick Features:
100% Leather
Vibram sole
Breathable
GORE-TEX (waterproof)
Cupron® Anti-Fungal Pro Fibers reduce odor
High abrasion upper
EVA midsole
Molded rubber toe cap
TPU stability chassis for heel lockdown & support
Scratch rubber heel overlay for durability
8) NORTIV 8 Men’s Safety Steel Toe Work Boots Industrial Anti-Slip Tactical Boots
These Nortiv Men’s tactical boots are durable, breathable, and super comfortable. These boots come with a synthetic sole, which is both LIGHTWEIGHT and abrasion-resistant. Not to mention, these boots also have a slip-resistant outsole. To give you greater accessibility when taking them on and off, these Nortiv Men’s tactical boots come with a side zipper. For those cold harsh days, the interior of the boots are insulated and also have a waterproof upper leather region. The durable rubber outsole has been engineered to provide you with a MAXIMUM grip on various terrains both indoors and outdoors. What also makes these Nortiv 8″ tactical boots so impressive is the moisture-wicking lining that serves two purposes: one (1), which is to quickly move (wicking) sweat to the outer surface, and the other to dry rapidly so that your sweat doesn’t saturate the fabric. With that said,
These EMT tactical boots also have a shock-absorbent cushion insert (removable), a padded collar, and toe reinforcement to retain the shape of the boot.
Quick Features:
Textile and Leather
Side zipper
Waterproof
Cushioned EVA footbed
Insulated and slip-resistant
Puncture resistant midsole
Nylon upper for breathability
Moisture-wicking lining
Durable rubber for maximum grip
Removable, shock-absorbent inserts
Padded collar/semi-rigid heel
Toe reinforcement
9) 5.11 Tactical Men’s ATAC 1.0 Waterproof Military Storm Boots, Slip Resistant Outsole, Style 12004
The 5.11 tactical boots are one of the BEST EMS boots in the market today. They have a PRO Fit construction, which gives you the roomiest fit for extra comfort when worn. The triple stitching provides durability in the MOST sensitive areas and ensures they last longer than other traditional boots. These 5.11 tactical steel toe boots also have hidden side pockets for smaller tools, and the waterproof treatment ensures your feet remain dry in harsh weather conditions. Not to mention, the side zipper helps give you a preferred FIT every single time.
5.11 EMT boots also utilize something called Anti-bacterial Drilex lining. This lining removes sweat away from the foot surface by heat and mass transfer and into the specific Dri-Lex® fabric lining. The result is your feet staying cool, odorless, and bacteria FREE.
Quick Features:
PRO Fit construction
Triple stitching
Prone Position Grip
Side pockets
Anti-bacterial Drilex lining
Hidden side pocket
1200-denier Cordura nylon side panels
Synthetic sole
Waterproof Treatment
Side zip functionality
10) Bates Men’s GX-8 Gore-Tex Waterproof Side Zip Boot
The Bates Men’s GX-8 are constructed from materials which are durable, breathable, and SUPER comfortable. If you are looking for EMS mens boots with side zippers, the Bates GX-8 is an EXCELLENT choice. These boots have several impressive features such as a rubber outsole for maximum grip when you walk and removable cushioned inserts so you can use your custom orthotics. The EVA midsole helps disperse weight and provides stability. At the same time, the moisture-wicking lining quickly moves sweat to the outer surface, keeping you dry. These Bates EMS boots come with a waterproof Gore-Tex lining to ensure no water gets in when working in extreme weather conditions. With that said,
The Bates Men’s GX-8 Gore-Tex boots provide you with all the essential features you are looking for in EMS boots.
Quick Features:
Rubber sole (maximum grip)
GORE-TEX (waterproof)
Breathable
Moisture-wicking lining
Side zipper
Slip-resistant
Removable cushioned insert
Lightweight
EVA midsole
11) 5.11 Tactical Men’s ATAC 2.0 8″ Leather Black Combat Military Side Zip Boots, Style 12391
The 5.11 tactical boots (ATAC) offer you durability, comfort, and breathability. These EMS boots have all the impressive features required to perform optimally on the job. These boots come with an Ortholite dual-density insole for better cushioning and Ortholite Lazy recovery foam for a custom comfortable fit. There is a hidden knife pocket and a side zipper, so you get a PREFERRED FIT every time. These 511 ATAC boots are not only lightweight but have “Agion” anti-microbial treatment on the lining, so your feet remain odorless even after working those long hours. Two other impressive features worth mentioning about these EMS boots are the following: the Achilles flex zone, which conforms to your step for better maneuverability, and the polishable leather toe, so they always look shiny when you are on the job.
Quick Features:
Ortholite dual-density insole
Breathable
Hidden knife pocket
Side zipper
Achilles flex zone for better maneuverability
Polishable leather toe
Leather/Nylon (durable)
ATAC midsole/outsole (Anti-shock)
Antimicrobial (lining)
Lightweight
12) Under Armour Men’s Valsetz Rts Military and Tactical Boot
The Under Armour EMS tactical boots have always been an EXCELLENT choice for emergency medical workers. These boots are lightweight, durable, breathable, and ULTRA comfortable. The rubber sole provides you with maximum grip with each step you take. This outsole ensures that you DON’T slip when working in the harshest of environments. These EMS boots are made using UA ClutchFit technology, which wraps your ankle providing powerful support & incredible feel. There is an abrasion-resistant film around the outside of the shoe protecting it from marks and scratches. Not only that, but the Micro G foam is shock-absorbent to reduce the stress on your muscles and joints. What’s also impressive about these Under Armour EMS boots is the memory foam, which conforms to your feet, giving you a preferred FIT every single time.
Quick Features:
Rubber sole (maximum grip)
UA ClutchFit technology
Abrasion-resistant
Micro G foam cushioning
Lightweight TPU shank
Memory foam
Ortholite sockliner
13) Danner Men’s Lookout Side-Zip 8″ Black Military & Tactical Boot
The Danner Lookout EMS tactical boots provide durability and support, with EXCELLENT comfort. These boots provide workers with features that will allow them to perform their job to their fullest potential. The rubber outsole gives you maximum grip for each step you take, and the Danner Semi-locking side-zip provides a fast and secure FIT. Danner Lookout tactical boots are made from full-grain leather and ripstop ballistic nylon upper to ensure they can withstand the most challenging jobs. Not only that, but these boots are waterproof with a dry liner that pulls moisture away to keep your feet dry and odorless.
These Danner EMT boots also have a cushioned dual-density footbed and wider toe box that allows for a more responsive fit by giving you more space at the front of the boot.
Quick Features:
100% Leather/Nylon
Rubber sole (maximum grip)
Full-grain leather
Ripstop ballistic nylon upper
Durable
Comfortable
Waterproof
Semi-locking side-zipper
Anatomical design
1) 5.11 Women’s ATAC 2.0 8″ Tactical Side Zip Military Combat Boot, Style 12403, Black
The 5.11 EMS womens tactical boots are durable, breathable, and ULTRA comfortable. These boots feature a full-length dual durometer Ortholite footbed, which provides flexibility and stability with every step you take. These 5.11 EMS boots for women also have a built-in shock mitigation system and are slip-resistant, ensuring your safety when working in the harshest (ADD – “of”) environments. What’s also impressive is the added knife pocket, so it’s available when you need it. The side-zipper is there for easy on/off and gives you a preferred FIT every time. These 5.11 ems boots are lighter and more comfortable than other shoes in the market, yet they are tough and durable too.
Quick Features:
Zipper closure
Dual durometer Ortholite footbed
Breathable tongue
Shock mitigation system
Lightweight
Slip-resistant
Side-zipper
Knife pocket
2) Under Armour Women’s Stellar Military and Tactical Boot
The Under Armour womens ankle tactical boots are constructed from 100% leather and have a rubber sole that gives you traction on all surfaces, essential when working in a fast-paced environment. The Molded EVA midsole is impressive because it helps disperse weight and provides stability for added comfort. These boots use the patented UA Storm technology that repels water without sacrificing breathability. The UA Storm technology keeps your feet dry and odorless even after working those long shifts. Not to mention, the polishable toe is a GREAT touch. With that said,
The Under Armour Women’s ems boots also come with a reinforced TPU shank, which NOT only reduces the load put on your feet and calves, but gives you that extra layer of comfort (ADD – “too”).
Quick Features:
100% Leather
Rubber sole (maximum grip)
UA Storm technology (repels water)
Lightweight
Polishable toe
Molded EVA midsole
Reinforced TPU shank
Traction on all surfaces
3) Danner Women’s Prowess Side-Zip Military and Tactical Boot
The Danner EMS boots for women will provide you all the features you need and more! These EMS boots are constructed from 100% leather for durability and have a rubber sole for maximum traction. This rubber outsole gives you the grip you need for working in harsh weather conditions. The Danner Women’s Prowess boots also have a side zipper, so you get a preferred FIT every time. Not only that, but the polishable toe is an excellent addition with the abrasion-resistant EVA midsole that helps disperse weight and provides stability for added comfort. Another impressive feature is the cushioned PU footbed, which is breathable and allows the air to circulate the foam. This footbed keeps your feet cool/odorless during those long shifts.
Quick Features:
Leather and Textile
Rubber sole (maximum grip)
Side zipper
Polishable toe
Cushioning PU footbed
Abrasion-resistant EVA midsole
Slip-resistant outsole
Superior durability/stability
4) Bates Women’s Ultra-Lites 8 Inches Tactical Sport Side-Zip Boot
The Bates womens EMS shoes are durable, breathable, and ULTRA comfortable. Some of the MOST impressive features include a rubber sole with maximum grip for severe working conditions. These boots are also slip-resistant, protecting you with every step, and the cushioned inserts can be removed for your custom orthotics. These Bates tactical boots have an EVA midsole that helps disperse weight and provides stability for added comfort. Not only that, but the moisture-wicking properties of these boots quickly moves sweat to the outer surface, keeping you dry. Another impressive feature of the boots is the “Bates DRYGuard waterproofing” membrane, which delivers full waterproof technology and breathability while keeping your feet cool and comfortable for longer.
Quick Features:
Rubber sole (maximum grip)
Slip-resistant
Durable leather
Performance nylon upper
Moisture-wicking
Breathable lining
Removable cushioned insert
Lightweight cushioned EVA midsole
5) Maelstrom Women’s TAC FORCE 8 Inch Military Tactical Duty Work Boot with Zipper
The Maelstrom TAC FORCE EMS womens boots provide you with all the features you need to perform at your BEST. These EMS zipper boots for women have been designed for optimal fit and comfort. These boots have a split resistant rubber outsole for maximum grip and removable high-performance inserts for your custom orthotics if required. The lining inside is moisture-wicking, which quickly moves sweat to the outer surface, keeping you dry. These Maelstrom Women’s TAC FORCE are also breathable keeping your feet cool/odorless during those long shifts. These EMS boots also have other impressive features like a YKK side zipper with closure for fast on/off, and a shock-absorbing midsole for SUPERIOR comfort. With that said,
The Maelstrom Women’s TAC FORCE 8 ready to wear right out of the box with no break-in time needed.
Quick Features:
100% Leather and Fabric
Rubber sole (maximum grip)
Polishable leather
Nylon upper
Slip-resistant rubber outsole
Breathable moisture-wicking lining
Removable high performance inserts
Lightweight
Shock-absorbing moulded midsole
YKK side zipper with closure for fast on and off
Composite shank for stability and support
6) Bates Women’s 5 Inches Enforcer Ultralit Sport Boot
The Bates women EMS enforcer boots are another EXCELLENT choice for EMTs. These boots have a rubber sole that gives you maximum grip with each step you take. Not only that, these boots have moisture-wicking properties which moves sweat to the outer surface, keeping you dry. The breathable lining is also an impressive feature providing airflow around your feet, keeping them cool/odorless during those long shifts. The cushioned inserts provide ULTRA comfort, and if you have your custom orthotics, you can easily remove the Bates boots inserts and replace them with your own. Finally, the lightweight cushioned EVA midsole helps disperse weight and provides stability for added comfort.
Quick Features:
Rubber sole (maximum grip)
Slip-resistant rubber outsole
Durable
Nylon upper
Moisture-wicking
Breathable lining
Removable cushioned insert
Lightweight cushioned EVA midsole
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide will help you make an informed decision when choosing your next pair of EMT tactical boots. Remember, the boots you purchase are a necessary investment to help you perform your duties with complete comfort and style. Hence, take your time to research and choose wisely!
If you have found our guide useful, please don’t forget to share your thoughts and feedback below in the comment box. We would love to hear what you and others have to say about our list of Best EMS Boots For EMTs.
Additional Resources
The Best 5.11 EMS Pants for Men And Women
How to Become an EMT in California – Requirements, Schools, Salary and More
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Tests
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