Footwear can make or break you. On one hand, a poor fitting, low-quality boot can cause problems such as foot fatigue, slips, ankle sprains, and poor resistance to the elements. While on the other hand, a competent and heavy-duty boot can offer blissful all-day wear, tough resistance to outside conditions, and proper support where it’s needed. Luckily, the 5.11 A/T Elite Gore-Tex Boot Line falls into the latter category and can truly be your go-to footwear for both urban and rural outings. The good people over at 5.11 sent me a few pairs of these hardcore trekkers to find out for myself if they back up their boasts or after intense testing, they need to be given “the boot.”
GORE-TEX BOOT LINE OPTIONS
Right out of the gate, the A/T Elite give the potential wearer a choice of three designs to choose from that offer the same construction materials and protection. First, there’s the Mid, which is the closest this boot comes to a “sneaker-like” design. It’s the lightest of the group and is perfect for those that enjoy a sleeker options that allows for quick-on and quick-off wearability. Next, there’s the 6-inch rise design. This option offers the best of both worlds between having some extra protection and stability above the ankle, without the full bulk of traditional high-rise boot. Finally, the 8-inch version takes the stage. With this boot, you get full, high coverage of your ankle plus your lower calf. This options is for the hardcore boot-wearer that don’t mind a little more weight as long as it protects when needed, and this beast definitely does. All three designs are available in two colors, black and Dark Coyote in a multitude of sizes ranging from four, all the way up to size 15. Additionally, regular width and wide widths are an extra options for an even greater fit.
CONSTRUCTION & DURABILITY
These boots were designed with law enforcement, military and first responders in mind and because of this, no matter your field, you will benefit from both their incredible construction and all-day wear comfort. First, these boots feature a GORE-TEX waterproof lining, which I put it to the test by sloshing through saturated wet and muddy trails at my local nature center. Though the boots (and my entire lower pant area) became wet quickly, my feet inside the snug boots remained bone dry. All three boots were tested and all received high passing grades for their waterproof protectiveness. However, these boots don’t peak with their waterproof ability, not by a long shot. Their specs include full rubber traction, thanks to its ASTM certified slip and oil-resistant outsole, a Dual Density-PU midsole with energy return and shock mitigation capabilities (think built-in shock absorbers), high abrasion mesh panels, and 3D TPU welds that offers durability throughout its unique lightweight design.
FIT & COMFORT
Now, even the best boots with miles of impressive specs don’t mean much if they don’t fit well and don’t feel like a natural extension of your body. I can safely say this isn’t the case with all three styles of A/T Elite Gore-Tex Boots. Naturally, they have more bulk then everyday shoes or sneakers due to their numerous protective layers, but overall they have a form-fitting feel. Each step is a pleasure rather than a chore, as is the case with heavy and clunky inferior options. Additionally, the protective membranes are highly breathable, even in humid environments (like in South Florida, where I tested the trio). If you take their waterproof protection, add in breathability and flexible comfort, you have a pair (or three if you opt to purchase all styles) of highly pleasing and performing boots.
AN EXCELLENT CHOICE
Few boots on the market today offer the optimal balance that the 5.11 Tactical A/T Elite Gore-Tex Boots do. They seamlessly blend comfort, durability, and protection; all essential must-haves when choosing a boot. No matter if you’re going across the world on a globe-trotting adventure or just performing your daily job under harsh conditions, these specialized footwear can handle everything thrown at them without fail. They were put to the test and their high marks truly shine with each and every step you’ll take.
