Bates Men's Rallyforce Tall Zip Dryguard Military Tactical Boot - Waterproof Combat Boots for Hiking, Work & Outdoor Adventures

Disclaimer: I've only had these boots a few days, so consider this more a preview than review.If you need (or are required to wear), but don't want boots, this is probably your best bet. Tennis shoe sizing and fit means you don't have to relearn your shoe size. If you had a comfortable walk or job recently in a pair of sneakers, then just buy that size. The heels are snug and well padded, so you won't get the typical unbroken in boot blisters on your heels and ankles. Be aware, there's not much protection from your toes if that is a concern, as the material is thin and vented. It's not as breathable as the non water proof version, but still pretty good. At 7", there is decent ankle support. My only real issue with fit and comfort is that the tongue does not have a loop for the laces to run through. This, the water proof version, has a gusseted tongue up to the bottom of the shaft, so it doesn't move around too much, but the non dryguard version does move as you walk. Bates, if you're reading this, small things do matter.The shoe has the name of a tire company stamped on in two different places. You'd think a shoe company could afford to keep a shoe specialist on the payroll for this purpose, but in his\her absence, Michelin did a pretty good job. The sole works very well on every surface I've been on so far. It is hard enough to protect from a mesquite thorn, but thin enough to be flexible and easy to move on.