I have a hard time finding quality shoes & boots, so I've decided to invest in some Irish Setter Shed Trackers and some Red Wing moc toe boots. I've had Timberlands, Wolverines, Dr Martens, and almost every brand of shoe I can think of. I ride motorcycles, and I have some foot issues(Arthritis is just the beginning) too. Both of those present some interesting quirks of their own.
What are your favorite kicks? Everyday footwear or back country shoes/boots? How do you wear them? Are you a hiker or outdoorsman or do you spend all of your time standing on concrete? A hunter? Do you get a lot of snow where you are or does the rain often come into play?
My wife and kids say that I am the Imelda Marcos of Combat Boots...
When they were issued to me, I had a bunch of Bates and Bellvile Desert Boots, they came in different styles because GSA and DPSC purchased them in lots. Some were not bad, others they made my feet hurt on long rucks. I still have a few that are new, never worn, just sitting in a kit with all my mil wear. As for some that I actually purchased, well here are my top 5 (all worn, some very broken in and some I actually bought a second pair)
#5: Belleville 790 Waterproof Combat and Flight Boot: These are flight approved, I've actually worn them on a flight, way better than my old flight boots. The boots has a tough sole, waterproofed with Gortex lining, my first choice if I am doing anything while on Flight Status, good boot that provides great stability to the ankle.
#4: Bates M-8 Tactical Boot A good one, this I was issued and then bought a replacement one...good all around boot. Easy to fix with Gorilla glue if the seam comes off the bottom of the sole. Price is not bad either.
#3: Rocky S2V GORE-TEX® Waterproof Insulated Tactical Boot, great boot by Rocky, worn them while doing mountain work...great reinforced sole and provided support on rocky areas.
#2 Bates Annobon Waterproof Tactical Boots, got these last year and wore during our little rainstorms. Very waterproof, I got the tan ones, but they come in tactical black leather.
#1 Tie: Danner Men's Desert Tfx Rough Out Military Boot: Just bought these am wearing as I post this. Great boot, possibly a near second to my Bate's Delta, but because I've not worn them on a ruck...only going how they wear around the home.
#1 Bates Delta Army Boot iCS Comfort Tech, my feet love them, like wearing a sneaker. Soft and so light, I didn't notice them on a commemorative ruck march this year. This is on my Christmas wish for a second pair.
As for wear, straight cotton socks for me.
As for Sneaks...I wear any Nike High Tops...call me old fashion, but I need the ankle support because they are pretty well shot, not to mention the lower half on my torso. For a running shoe, I wear a pair of Asiscs Kayano 21, they have a gel insert, makes my feet smile when I am out doing my mile.