Bates Delta Side-Zip 8 Inch Tactical Boots for Men - Military & Police Uniform Shoes, Work Boots for Law Enforcement & Security Professionals

These are great boots so far. I have been wearing these for two weeks now, and I'm enjoying them thoroughly. The actual look and design of these boots is very mean and rugged. Very well made, good stitching, looks like it's going to last.Side zipper is a nice feature. The zipper feels tough and durable. It's very nice to have after a long night of walking on concrete and asphalt where untying your boots just feels like too much effort at the moment.Break in period was relatively short (Six days of constantly walking at work). However it was a bit painful. I might recommend breaking these in at home before wearing them on duty. The insoles felt good immediately, but the sides of the boot seemed to dig in right at the ankle. A bit painful but as the break in period was short so it doesn't really matter.The tread on these boots is where they really shine. They really give you just an awesome grip on the ground. I feel like I could comfortably walk up a 70° incline in these bad boys. No boot I have ever worn comes close in this department.The ICS system is incredibly comfortable. I really don't feel any difference in the comfort settings, so I feel that's just a clever gimmick to seem cool and innovative. It's still incredibly comfortable either way, so I really don't care if it isn't actually adjustable. The front of the sole also had a gel worked into it for added comfort.The only real con I have is that the heel rides too high for my personal tastes. This is just a personal preference, and it was easily fixed. I took the insoles out of the old pair of shoes I had, cut them in half, and glued the front half to the Bates insoles. Now I feel like I'm walking on more of a flat surface which is how I like it.All in all I'm very pleased after my initial two weelks. I can't speak to longevity yet, but if I have any issues with this in the coming months I'll be sure to update my review accordingly.