New boots?

[rmrc51]

I'm considering getting the Bates Enforcer Ultra Lite 8" side zip boots (# 2261). Does anyone have these boots and if so, are they comfortable and pliable? I really can't take a stiff, heavy & hot boot. Unfortunately no one in my area carries these so I can try them on. This would be a mail order sale.

Thanks in advance for any opinions.

[3fan4life]

I've had Bates, boots in the past, they're good boots.

I usually get Magnums because they're cheaper and just as good.


Sportsmans Guide usually has some good prices on boots.


http://www.sportsmansguide.com/net/browse/mens-footwear-duty.aspx?c=11&s=370


BTW Super Shoes carries Bates and Magnum Boots:

http://www.supershoes.com/Magnum

Staunton
1106 Greenville Avenue, VA, 24401
Phone: 540-886-3850
Store Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 9am to 9pm
Sunday: 11am - 6pm

Charlottesville
135 Seminole Square Shopping Center, VA, 22901
Phone: 434-978-4531
Store Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 9am to 9pm
Sunday: 11am - 6pm

Harrisonburg
2475-C South Main Street, VA, 22801
Phone: 540-574-4206
Store Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 9am to 9pm
Sunday: 11am - 6pm

Lynchburg
3700 Candlers Mtn. Road, VA, 24502
Phone: 434-846-4768
Store Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 9am to 9pm
Sunday: 11am - 6pm

[fudgie]

I use bates at my EMS work. Lightest boots on the market. Had them 3 yrs now and are holding up well. Half the zipper pull broke but I already have small round 'key rings' thru the zippers to make it easier to zip up. I rarly zip them. I just use my pant leg to hold them together or the velcro flap at the top. Never been pulled off.
I got mine at a Meijer store. Its like a wal mart. $75

[BF]

I've got a set of Bates simular to the ones your looking at except they're 6" instead of 8".  They've got a tall heel on them.  Alot of people have commented how tall I am when I'm wearing them.  The Bates make me feel like a two dollar hooker in high heels when I've got them on.  They make be feel like I'm about to fall foward with them on.  I hate them actually.  They don't feel all that bad to tell the truth, but I wish the heel was alot lower.  If I didn't have to have a set of boots to get on Base, I'd throw them in the garbage. 

[salty1]

Have you ever looked at these:

http://www.tourmaster.com/xcart/product.php?productid=350&cat=7

Great cycle boot!

[rmrc51]

Thanks for all the comments and suggestions.

I'm looking for new boots not only for riding, but everyday use as well. Getting tired of clipping my ankles on all the stuff I have to walk through. I'm also assuming that those of you who use the bates boots find them comfortable. And yes, those Tourmaster boots do look like a consideration!

[Hoser]

I'm considering getting the Bates Enforcer Ultra Lite 8" side zip boots (# 2261). Does anyone have these boots and if so, are they comfortable and pliable? I really can't take a stiff, heavy & hot boot. Unfortunately no one in my area carries these so I can try them on. This would be a mail order sale.

Thanks in advance for any opinions.

I' had two pair in 10 years, very durable.  I found that my normal size 10 is a 9 1/2 in Bates.  1st pair was a 10, a bit loose but still very comfy.  Feet might have shrunk I guess. Cost me 100bux or so at Vanderbilt's.    Hoser

[Jess from VA]

I hate buying any footwear without trying first.  But I have had good luck with swat/tac boots buying my regular size on-line.  I'm 8.5 wide, but have gone to a 9 medium with no problem.  Going a tad large is remedied with fat sox.  And my winter boots are all ordered a half size up for two fat sox.

You know these aren't waterproofs. (however, putting a couple coats of black Kiwi, followed by regular mink oil (and spraying the cordura with some scotchguard) will keep them pretty dry, except for long riding in monsoons)  They will feel almost like high top tennies right out of the box.
http://www.lapolicegear.com/baenseul8tas.html 

Depending on return policies, ordering your two best sizes (regular and a half size up) with the intent to keep the best fit and return the other is not a bad plan. (eating the return postage)

I have relegated my older worn tac boots to yard duty.