Rothco G.I. Style Combat Boots vs Rocky Mountain Combat 8" Military Boot

The Rothco 5075 is the traditional pick: Goodyear welt, steel shank, stitched sole and top grain leather, and owners say it feels like the boots they were issued. The Rocky Mountain Combat is the modern pick: waterproof membrane, thermal-regulating lining, TPU toe cap and SuperFabric instep panels, but it uses lighter cement construction. Buy the Rothco for a rebuildable, stiff, classic boot; buy the Rocky for wet, cold or abrasive work where traction and toe protection matter more than resoling.

• Choose the Rothco 5075 if you want a stiff, rebuildable military-style boot with a steel shank and stitched sole, and you can size down.
• Choose the Rocky Mountain Combat if you need waterproofing, a protective toe cap and grip on wet or oily ground.