I recently picked up a pair of Rocky's S2V Vented Military Boots for testing. I have gone through more than my share of black duty boots but the use of military styles, especially among those of us in the tactical and training arenas of law enforcement, is ever increasing. There is a real need for a boot that is not only uniform compliant, but also comfortable and durable. My S2Vs came in Desert Tan and I was eager to get them laced up.

The S2V is an 8.5-inch leather and 1,000-denier Cordura nylon boot with a proprietary Vibram sole that is made in the USA. Rocky's Dri-Lex material and Lycra spandex line the boot, which allows for a snug fit while wicking moisture away from your skin. And air cushion soles and side vents allow water to freely drain out and prevent debris from coming in for use in wet environments. Basically, everything you'd want in the field.

Out of the box the first thing I noticed about these boots was their solid construction. Their Vibram soles were hefty without being too heavy and the upper stitching was flawless. The speed laces worked without a hitch with the included set of military-grade tubular laces. These laces were substantial and a little stiff, but they seemed to soften a bit with use.

I wore the S2V boots to work the very next day and did my best to move around in them as much as I could. They did require some breaking in as these aren't the "tennis shoe" variety of duty boots that feels great right out of the box; they're the kind that once you've broken them in will last a very long time. Don't get me wrong, they were comfortable right away, but they got noticeably better after about three days of wear.

During a week of testing I first stood for several hours at a time and found the insoles were more than supportive. I then ran up and down a rocky shooting range and the Vibram soles provided great support and traction without my losing a "feel" for the ground I was on. The upper nylon panels kept my feet cool and dry while remaining snug and supportive. The only two features I didn't test were the water drainage capabilities (sorry, I live in the desert) and the flame resistance (for obvious reasons). I'm sure both work well, though.

At the end of the work week I was pretty impressed. Not only did these boots feel good on my feet because of their great ankle and arch support, but they also showed almost no signs of wear, unlike other boots I've worn. I dusted these off with a stiff brush and they look as good as new. I have a feeling it would take a very long time to wear these out.

Rocky makes several S2V variations that come in Desert Tan, Coyote Brown, Sage Green, and black to conform to a variety of uniform specifications. They are also available with Gore-Tex lining for colder climates, in a waterproof model for wet environments, and in a steel-toed version for those who need extra protection. With prices between $194.99 and $254.99 depending on the model, these are what I would consider high-end boots, but their high-end quality more than makes up for their cost. If you're in the market for a serious pair of tactical duty boots, Rocky's S2Vs are worth the investment.

Rocky S2V Military Duty Boot Specs:

Wicking Dri­Lex lining and stretch Lycra tongues hug feet for secure fit

1,000-denier Cordura in sides and panels in treated PTFE coat for flame resistance

Leather instep panel

Proprietary high­walled Vibram soles with perforated airport cushion footbeds and PU midsoles

Drainage vents move water out and prevent debris from entering and enhance breathability

Flash- and water­-resistant leather uppers

Aegis microbe shield prevents bacteria and fungus growth

Made in the U.S.A.

Berry compliant

8.5 inches high

Price: $254.99

A.J. George is an officer with the Scottsdale (Ariz.) Police Department currently assigned to the advanced training unit as a firearms and tactics instructor.