Police Boots

Every boot in the comparison above is checked against each shop daily, so the price you see is today's price. Below is what to look for before you buy, and answers to the questions officers ask us most.

How to Choose Police Boots

You will wear them for 8 to 12 hours a shift, much of it on your feet, so comfort and support come first. Look for good padding around the ankle and collar, and boots that lace up past the ankle: tied firmly, the laces give extra support on uneven ground. Everyone's feet are different, so treat any list, including ours, as a starting point for finding a good police boot rather than the final word.

Waterproofing

In the UK this is close to essential. Boots with a Gore-Tex (GTX) or similar membrane keep your feet dry while still letting them breathe; leather on its own is water-resistant at best and wears out faster in the wet. Use the Waterproof filter in the table to see only waterproof boots. If your current pair is letting water in, our guide on how to waterproof boots may buy you some time.

Sole and grip

You need a sole that grips on wet pavements, grass and stairs, and one thick enough to protect you from glass, needles and nails. A slip-resistance rating (SRA or SRC) is worth looking for, and some boots add a puncture-resistant midsole.

Side zip or laces

A side zip lets you get boots on and off quickly and keeps the same fit every time, which suits response officers who are in and out of vehicles. The downside is that when the zip fails, the boot usually has to be repaired or replaced. Most side-zip police boots still lace up as well. Filter by Side zip in the table to compare them.

Height

8-inch boots give the most ankle support for patrol and public order work. 6-inch and mid-height boots are lighter and cooler, and many officers prefer them for response and station duties.

Vegan and women's fit

Several brands now make vegan police boots with no animal products, and women's-fit models built on a narrower last. Both have their own filter in the table, and our guide to women's police boots covers fit in more detail.

Which Brands Do Officers Buy?

Magnum is the most common choice in UK forces: a wide range of uniform boots, many with side zips, with most models currently between about £55 and £150 depending on the boot and the shop.

Altberg boots are handmade in Yorkshire and cost more, currently around £180 to £235, but they are built to last for years. I know from personal experience that Alt-Berg boots are of high quality build and will definitely last years.

LOWA, Haix and AKU make Gore-Tex boots that are popular for rural, search and public order work, while the Adidas GSG-9 range is a lighter, trainer-style tactical boot.

For our pick of the best, see the best police boots for 2026.

Make Your Boots Last

Clean and polish your boots regularly and they will last noticeably longer, which saves you money. Our guide on how to polish police boots covers the methods that work best.

More police boot guides

• Best Police Boots for 2026
• Women's Police Boots
• How to Polish Police Boots
• How to Waterproof Boots
• What Boots Do Police Wear on Patrol?
• Why Police Forces Don't Issue Police Boots
• History of Police Boots

Frequently Asked Questions: Police Boots

What are the best police boots for UK officers?

It depends on your role and budget. For rural, PSU and search work, LOWA and AKU GTX boots offer excellent waterproofing and ankle support. For urban patrol, the Adidas GSG-9.2 and Magnum boots are lightweight and popular. For long-term durability, Altberg boots are handmade in the UK and built to last several years. Our Best Police Boots 2026 guide has a full Top 10.

Do police get a discount on boots?

Yes. Police Discount Offers lists discounts on a wide range of police boots for serving officers, PCSOs, Special Constables, retired officers, police staff and their families, on brands including Magnum, Altberg, LOWA and Adidas. Check individual boot pages for the latest offers and discount codes.

What should I look for when buying police boots?

The key factors are waterproofing (essential for UK conditions), ankle support, sole grip and quality, comfort over 8 to 12 hour shifts, and whether you want a side zip for quick on and off. Your role matters too: rural officers usually need heavier waterproof boots, while urban response officers often prefer lighter, trainer-style tactical boots.

Are side-zip police boots worth it?

They are popular with officers who spend a lot of time in and out of vehicles, because they come off much more quickly and give a consistent fit without re-lacing. The main downside is that if the zip breaks, the boot often needs replacing. Many officers choose boots with both a side zip and laces.

How long do police boots last?

A quality pair should last 12 to 24 months of daily wear. Premium leather boots such as Altberg can last several years with proper care, cleaning and conditioning, while budget boots may only last 6 to 12 months. Regular polishing and waterproofing will extend the life of any boot.

What is the difference between Magnum and Altberg police boots?

Magnum boots are a popular mid-range option used widely across UK forces, currently from about £55 to £150, with many side-zip styles. Altberg boots are handmade in the UK from high-grade leather, currently from around £180, and last significantly longer. Officers who want to buy once and wear for years often choose Altberg; those wanting a reliable everyday boot for less choose Magnum.

Can police officers wear their own boots?

Yes. Most UK forces let officers wear their own boots as long as they meet the force's standards, typically a plain black appearance suitable for uniform, and many provide a footwear allowance. That means you can choose your own brand and style, and this page is here to help you find it at the best price.