Police Product Test: Oakley SI Light Assault Leather Boot

Oakley has made a name for itself in the law enforcement and military market, and not just for sunglasses. Several years ago the company released its original Assault Boot and it was an immediate hit with cops and soldiers alike. In a market dominated by true "heavy boots" the new Oakley Assault Boots were a crossbreed of boot and athletic shoe, meaning they were as durable as any good combat boot but comfortable right out of the box. Not satisfied with well-enough, Oakley recently redesigned the original Assault and shaved off a ton of weight in the process. I recently had the opportunity to review the tactical model of this boot and was pretty impressed so I was excited to see it in a full-leather, uniform style.

Oakly SI Light Assault Leather Boot

• At a Glance

• 6-inch boot height

• Polishable 1.6-1.8 mm thick full-grain Napa bovine leather

• Injection EVA midsole

• Slip-resistant rubber outsole

• Molded EVA insert

• Metal speed loop lacing system with anti IR coating

• 100% braided nylon laces

Sizes: 7–12, 13, 14

Price: $160

www.oakleysi.com

I'm happy to report that after several weeks of use my Light Assault Leather Boots are still in great shape and incredibly comfortable. The leather is soft yet provides great foot protection and the smooth finish takes polish very well for a professional shine.Dubbed the Light Assault Leather Boot, this new duty boot retains the style and function of its predecessor while weighing in at a mere 9.2 ounces per foot. Yeah, ounces, not pounds. At six inches tall the Light Assault Boot from Oakley's Standard Issue (SI) line is a bit shorter than its tactical twin but still provides excellent ankle protection and is a cinch to lace up courtesy of nylon-coated loops for the speed laces. A self-cleaning sole incorporates a nylon shank for superior rigidity without adding weight.

Oakley's new Light Assault Leather Boots are a great option for anyone looking for an incredibly light and comfortable duty boot that still looks sharp with a uniform. If you have an account with Oakley SI you can pick up a pair of the new Light Assault Leather boots for a great price. Mine will see a lot more use and abuse in the future.

A.J. George is a patrol sergeant with the Scottsdale (AZ) Police Department who also serves as the SWAT team's crisis negotiation supervisor.