Under test today, the AERO-TAC combat boot built by First Tactical, a USA based manufacturer founded by Dan Costa in 2015. Weighing in at just a claimed 440 grams, the AERO-TAC combat boot should be among the lightest tactical boots on the market.
all4shooters.com has received a sample pair of the 8” tall Side-Zip version in Black for my tests, and this specific version weighs exactly 514 grams per boot. I confess the very first thing I did, once I removed the paper wadding inside the boot after unboxing it, was to weigh it… and I have to say I am impressed since the 440g figure is specified on First Tactical’s website for the 3” Low version. As for appearance, I do like the minimalist approach in the boot design, with subdued and unassuming clean lines and, in the version I have, pleasant matte black color.
First Tactical AERO-TAC 8" features and construction
The boot’s construction is based on a poly mesh upper reinforced with fused TPU layers (Hyperfusion Technology), to allow a reduced overall weight and enhanced abrasion resistance. The AMPD midsole is built using a proprietary compression-molded EVA blend to reduce weight while maintaining structure and absorb impact. A nylon shank adds midfoot support and torsional stability, and a molded TPU toe cap offers decent protection in most situations – including shooting from a kneeling position.
The interior lining is treated with Aegis proprietary antimicrobial treatment, reducing bacteria buildup, and therefore odor and stains, during extended wear. First Tactical uses Ortholite open-cell technology insoles, to provide great cushioning and comfort. The outsole is called REZ-TRAC by the manufacturer and is indeed very aggressive in design.
The side zip of the boot is YKK branded and does help a lot in speeding up wearing and removing the boots; a low-profile pull tab is also a welcome feature, avoiding snagging.
An interesting feature is the metal-free construction, which I supposed would have allowed me to have less problem at the security line at the airport… but the nice officers still asked me to remove the boots and place them in the X-ray machine.
First Tactical AERO-TAC 8": Comfort and test
Wearing the Aero-Tac boot for the first time is a novel experience. It is literally like wearing a pair of sneakers or jogging shoes. And the immediate comfort does not break down with use, at least in the month or so I used the boots at the range and during most of my outdoor activities. Which also means no break-in period, since the boots are immediately usable. They are also incredibly light, lighter than the circa half kilogram each boot weighs would make me think. Support is excellent, and laces are of great quality.
The tread design is also quite efficient, and while it offers great grip, it also does not retain mud or pebbles like deeper groove designs do.
The elastic pull tab is a great idea: it basically disappears when not used and does no snag the pants. The zipper has a Velcro tab to keep it up. The ankle is well supported and I never had compression problems, the AERO-TAC is probably the most comfortable tall boot I have now.
The AERO-TAC is a boot that can be used in its intended use, that is a light duty boot for law enforcement, but also as a good range boot, light hunting and all round outdoor use.
I have to say, the only problem I have experienced with the AERO-TAC is that airflow should definitely be improved, as I deem these boots to be rather hot in warm climate. I initially used the Duty socks that First Tactical sent me with the boot, but I routinely came home with damp socks; so, I also used professional Merino socks, and situation did improve, however ventilation was still a bit lacking.
To wrap up, a great boot, extremely light and reasonably comfortable. Availability is not great still, but there are European dealers online that offer the First Tactical AERO-TAC 8” at a price of about 169 euro plus shipping in all of EU.
