Comfortable boot that holds a good shine?

[-R-]

Long story short, I look like someone dropped me in a blender feet first and have major orthopedic issues including limited range of motion in my ankle.

I have spent major bucks on custom orthotics...and they are all pretty much useless.

It has been recommended to me that I try a "paratrooper" style side-zip boot. This would give me the ankle support I need and still allow me to easily get my foot in.

This seems the place to ask for advice/recommendations...got any?

Id recommend a front zipper over a side zip. The reason being is the front zippers dont have anything to do with the structure of the boot which usually means greater support. They are very easy to get on and off. Id look for at least an 8" boot if not a 10" to offer even greater ankle support.

Just try on a few different models by different manufacturers because they all fit differently. Good luck man.

[Rigma]

Thanks for the info. I will reconsider the front zipper option. As you said I will just have to try out a number and see what feels best.

[Spyder]

You guys are all lucky! You can go try on boots before you try 'em... If anyone finds a store that stocks size 17's to try on, let me know!

[NorCal*Shooter]

I have the Rocky model 2080. they are re-soleable, comfortable and hold a great shine. They are great.

Another brand is Original SWAT. Their boots are a little harder to find now, but they were also comfortable and held a good shine.

Danners are great but expensive. They run a little narrow, so you might want to compare with a wider size.

I love 5.11 clothing and some gear but i'm sorry to say that their boots suck. The soles wear down quick, the laces get shreaded easily and the overall boot just doesn't hold up well.

Make sure to get a waterproof boot. You'll thank yourself everytime you have walk through water.

[retired]

A little off topic, but a funny on me: I had a pair of boots while in patrol once with a side zipper (don't recall the name). I had been having some problems with the left zipper and forgot to get it taken care of.

Well, I got in a foot pursuit of a 17yr. old one day on church grounds and after 5 minutes of running, the zipper opened all the way and I had to stop running.

The kid stopped running when the pastor showed up. Since I was afraid the kid would take off, I didn't take the time to pull the zipper up and I sort of hobbled my way over to him as fast as I could. After I cuffed him, I pulled the zipper up.

That was the last day I wore those boots.

[center_x]

I used the rocky zip up boots. Try Lincoln wax to shine your boots, it worked great. Good luck with everything.

[BuisJoel]

Well finally decided on a boot. I went with the 5.11 Storms. They are just like the atac's but with a water proof lining. I tried on Magnums and Bates but they werent as comfortable as the 5.11's. Thanks guys for your help.

Joel

[fullrearview]

You guys are all lucky! You can go try on boots before you try 'em... If anyone finds a store that stocks size 17's to try on, let me know!

Geez chubaca Thats big!!!!

I feel your pain..I hate buying things without trying them on!

[Rigma]

First of all I apologize for dredging up an old thread, but I do so for a good reason.

I previously asked for recommendations in this thread, and got a good response. My leg has gotten worse lately. I have had much of my calf surgically removed, and my ankle is a bit of a mess.

I need a good boot for daily wear that breathes, offers good support and is easy to get my foot in.

The problem is I can't order online. I MUST be able to try it on. I need a recommendation for a retail location in the Sacramento area.

Any help is appreciated.