City-based first responders, law enforcement, and urban jungle professionals need a high performance boot that won’t fail. The Tactical Pro Mid boot from Lems Shoes (LemsShoes.com) fills that spot. This boot offers the optimal combination of durability and all-day comfort for those who’s days are faced with continuous rigorous obstacles. With so many “tactical” boots out there, does Lems’ Tactical Pro Boot lead the pack, or are they just middle-of-the-road? With a pair firmly laced on my feet, I trekked hard to get you the definitive answer.
Out-of-the-Box Impression
Upon opening the box, I was greeted with a boot insert to “Personalize Your Fit”, as it stated. This was a cushioned insert to add to or replace the existing one for an optimal sizing experience. This was unexpected and welcomed. It does exemplify Lems’ underlying philosophy to produce footwear that puts ultimate foot comfort as their primary goal. Upon examining the exterior of the boots, I noticed the unique curvature of the boot’s front (where your toes would be.) Unlike more symmetrically designed tactical boots, these offered a distinct curve and a wider width that mimicked the shape of a foot. I was eager to try them on after seeing this, knowing that Lems intentionally design their shoes so “the foot and toes move naturally and free.” Overall, the boot was solid, hefty in weight, and was colored with a deep “Nighthawk” black hue.
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Materials for Optimal Durability
There was no doubt in my mind that the Lems’ Tactical Pro Mid boot was going to be overall tough-as-nails for urban or outdoor use. Its specs, coupled with my own feel of the materials, all pointed at superior construction. It offers full-grain leather & nylon uppers, Adventure poly insoles, and Vibram Megagrip (so cool, I’ll discuss it more down below.) The Tactical Pro Mid boot sported reinforced stitching, with laces pre-strung and ready to be tied. The laces were thick and with no fraying at the ends (which usually frustrates me greatly, especially on never-been-worn boot models) The pull straps were tough enough to be tugged significantly hard to get the boots on (though loosening the laces a bit more would have done the job easier.) Honestly, there was no area that the boots failed to impress when it came to superior craftsmanship and assembly.
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Feeling the Fit
With one of the specs for this boot stating, “Lems Widest Natural-Shape”, I was extremely eager to test that against my naturally wide foot. I typically have issues with regular-fit boots, as they often constrict my toes and cause unending pain. Well, not with Tactical Pro Mid Boot. Their promise came true as my toes had substantial room to move about with no pinching or squeezing being felt. The laces secured the boot also comfortably, without that cutting-into-your-leg feeling that thinner laces and thinner material can cause. Naturally, I felt the weight of the boot with each step, but it became less apparent the more I moved about. The boots also feature a zero-drop spec, which simply means that the toes and heel are minimally different heights (under 3mm.) A Zero-Drop is beneficial for posture, balance, and improved ankle mobility.
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Testing the Traction
One of the boot’s top features is its Vibram Megagrip outsole. With such a distinct and impressive name, I wanted to give this spec some attention. Luckily in South Florida there no lack of moisture from both rain and high humidity. For testing the boot’s gripping power, it’s not just the wetness that matters, but also the surface that it’s on. I walked on asphalt, brick, a pool deck, and a metal ladder to test these varied surfaces against the Megagrip outsole. Amazingly, the boots actually gripped better to the surfaces that had a thin layer of water on them, as opposed to when they were entirely dry. The boots didn’t even slightly slip. I walked cautiously and then at full stride, and it made no difference. I was stable, balanced, and in-control with every step. Megagrip is the perfect way to describe the boot’s excellent slip-resistance.
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To Wear or Not to Wear?
Although the Tactical Pro Mid boot may appear somewhat “off” to you in appearance to what a traditional tactical boot may look like, it does so for a reason. The curvature of the front portion, along with its greater amount of front interior space is all about comfort. Being in tactical boots for a full day can take its toll on your feet. Not so with these boots. You get a protective outer shell, with the comforting feel of sneakers. At $215.00, you’ll enjoy supreme durability, with a softness that your feet will cherish with each and every step.
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Lems’ Tactical Pro Mid Boot Specs
Model: Tactical Pro Mid Boot
Upper: Full-Grain Leather & Nylon
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Lining: Polyester
Outsole: Vibram Megagrip
Insole: Adventure Poly
Water Resistance: Yes
Weight: 15.40 ounces
Color: Nighthawk black
MSRP: $215.00
Website: LemsShoes.com
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