I had read that the 5.11 tactical boots run small. Anybody own them and can confirm the sizing? I wear an 11 in shoes, so I’m wondering if I should order an 11.5?
2 Likes
I always bought them a full size larger and a size wider but I was pounding hard floors for 12 hours and your feet would swell, I had to do outside perimeter checks in the winter and wore heavy socks during cold weather. 
1 Like
Not sure of your measurements so using mine, you think going from 11 to 12 wide?
1 Like
Yes, I always went 1 size larger both ways. Just me. But I always liked 511 boots. If you get the waterproof ones your feet will sweat more in hot weather but they will be better in rain and snow.
1 Like
Good feedback. So I live in Las Vegas, not a ton of water here. I probably should look at something else. Any suggestions?
1 Like
Thorogood, Under amour, Bates, Law pro if you want to go cheap. I have wore them all at one time or another.
1 Like
Interesting you say that, I was looking at some Bates boots as well.
1 Like
Bates make some fine boots.
2 Likes
Concur. The pair I got had a membrane that passed zero moisture, so sweat collected summer and winter after a few hours doing much anything. Don’t recall any sizing surprises — I have narrow feet, so always require insole and/or sock adjustments since widths are not a thing in sub-$400 boots anymore. I got side zips for emergency work — broke a nylon tooth long before the boots had much wear, and the boots were done.
I wear Georgia boots for woods work — sturdy, light, leather, economical. But they also have kind of a “sweat” membrane. 90% rest of the time I wear Men's Coldpack Ice+ 8" Zip Polar Waterproof Winter Hike Boots | Merrell — sold as a waterproof winter boot, but I find them comfortable 20° to 120°. They’re not real cheap and they’re not waterproof once you’re up to the zipper. Depends what you need them for.
2 Likes
Oh I assure you they run small, at least in my experience. I’ve bought two pair and sold both on Facebook market place because, although I tried them on in the store, I foolishly underestimated their lack of ability to conform to my foot like other boots. I’d go at least a half size larger than your normal shoe size.
Stay safe.
1 Like
I will say this about 511, I was drawn to some of their styles because they had some features of a tactical boot or shoe, but didn’t specifically ‘look’ all military. Looking at some of the other brands recommended here and it looks like some follow the same route.
Yeah I do like their style. I was looking at Viktos this morning and I like their mid vented boot which I think will be good for Vegas. There are a lot of options, not sure which route to go yet.
I am a fan of the American made Red Wings. About half of their line is from China, so shop carefully.