What is the Best Way to Care for Tactical Boots in the Military?

Tactical boots play an important role in military professionals’ protection. It is important to protect your entire unit from head-to-toe, from basic training attendees to Army officers. Out of all industries, military personnel are subjected to an environment where exposure to intense conditions, high-stress training sessions and long, exhausting shifts are common. There are several risks that officers are exposed to daily. The most common are:

• Slips, trips and falls
• Lower back, neck and shoulder pain
• Higher risk of musculoskeletal injuries

On average, a good pair of tactical boots can last from a few months to up to two years if they are taken care of properly. It is important to remember that in the military, the grip of a boot’s outsoles will not be the same when they are used more often. That is why proper care, cleaning and wear are highly recommended for this industry.

In this article, we will be discussing the best ways to care for tactical military boots and how Shoes For Crews’ footwear solutions can support and protect your squad.

How to clean leather tactical boots

Tactical boots are frequently worn in extreme weather conditions ranging from rainy to snowy to hot desert sand. Leather boots get the job done but they often take a beating when it comes to being out in the elements. However, the boot’s outsole will be the part that will receive the most stress and strain throughout the day or night. 

Shoes For Crews’ slip-resistant outsoles are designed to handle even the toughest of jobs. The firm rubber sole offers a lightweight feel and higher levels of breathability. They are washable and can easily be wiped clean of any debris or dirt, free from chemical deterioration.

To clean tactical boots, your squad will need: 

• A wide horsehair brush (never a wire brush)
• Warm water
• A drying towel
• Polish
• Conditioner
• A soft cloth or a chamois

1. Leave the boots to dry

Muddy conditions are almost a given when it comes to tactical boots. That is why it is essential to allow any existing mud to dry. If wet mud is scrubbed, there is a high chance the boot’s leather shell will absorb it. Once it has completely dried, shake it off, by gently knocking the heels together or by banging against a hard surface.

2. Remove any remaining mud or dirt

Take a horsehair brush and a damp cloth to eliminate any persistent dirt. Make sure to cover the outsoles and any crevices. And be careful not to apply too much pressure when brushing to not compromise the quality of the leather material.

3. Coat them with a layer of polish or conditioner

To prevent cracking and drying out, apply polish. Regular shoe polish can be used, or they can prepare a mixture of one-part vinegar and two-part linseed oil to condition the boots. Leave it to set for 15-20 minutes.

4. Buff with a chamois or soft cloth

After the conditioner has set, take a chamois (a perforated fabric wiping cloth for cleaning delicate surfaces like glass, stainless steel and leather) and buff the boots. Or use a soft cloth but be sure to not use any fabrics that could potentially leave scratches or marks.

5. Let the boots dry in open air

The best way to dry the boots is outdoors. Avoid placing them to dry in the sun and as tempting as it may be, avoid heat. This will help maintain their naturally classy and polished look.

How to clean synthetic fibre tactical boots

Typically, synthetic fibre tactical boots are easier to clean than leather boots. It can sometimes only take a quick wipe-down and a little bit of water to get the job done. Nevertheless, to clean deeper or harder set stains, more materials will be required. For deeper, muddier stains:

1. Allow the mud to thoroughly dry

Just as with leather boots, let any mud dry completely before starting to clean them. 

2. Knock the boots’ heels together

Use a bit of force to remove all dried contaminants. Shake or clap the boots together to remove all debris.

3. Use a toothbrush to remove any remaining dirt

Mix a little bit of vinegar into a small container of water. Then, use a toothbrush to tackle the nooks and crevices. Repeat until boots are spotless and free from dirt.

4. Spray a layer of stain protector (optional)

To make future cleaning sessions less tedious and painstaking, apply a layer of stain protection to the tactical boots to repel stains. 

Not only is it important for the military to be supplied with durable and supportive boots but the everyday care of such footwear is also critical. Proper, well-cared-for boots will support the feet, avoiding slips, trips and falls when every second on the job counts. When the proper safety measures and equipment are implemented, risks can be reduced thus creating a safer working environment for the whole unit.

From lightweight boots to knowing the differences between tactical and combat boots, Shoes For Crews’ M.A.P.S. range has something for everyone in the squad. If you would like more information on a specific boot or would like to learn more about the recent changes to the manufacturing of our footwear solutions, we encourage you to contact our experts or download our Buyers Guide.