Blackhawk Desert Ops Boots
I evaluated a pair of size 12 regular width, Coyote Tan, Blackhawk Desert Ops boots. I've used a number of issued boots in the past, along with Bates Enforcers, Oakley Assault Boots, and safety-toe boots. By far, the Blackhawk Desert Ops boots are the most comfortable out of the box. I've seen this phrase used to describe other boots in the past, such as the famed Oakley Assault Boots, but these Blackhawk boots truly are "broken in" out of the box.

They feel like thick athletic sneakers. The sole is well cushioned, and the sides of the boot are flexible enough that they don't cut off circulation in your ankle. The boot could be lighter and more breathable, but overall it wasn't too bad even in a warm working environment. My white socks did turn tan from the leather dye though.

The Vibram sole is kind of unique. It is an all-terrain design, more aggressive than the Panama sole found on Jungle Boots and Desert Boots. However, the boot is "soft" enough that I could drive a manual transmission car without breaking in the boots. Normally military issued boots are stiff and require breaking in before I can get the level of sensation I want in order to work the clutch.

The only things I'd improve are by making the sides almost all Cordura similar to a jungle boot. This would lighten the boot, make it more flexible and breathable, and improve the longevity. The Blackhawk currently uses a strip of leather at the Achille's tendon versus Cordura with the jungle boots. The laces are also getting gripped by the suede leather surfaces, and the quick-lace loops aren't working as effectively.

Oakley Assault Boots felt stiff out of the box and required breaking in before they were comfortable, and the Oakley tread design is inferior. The Oakley boots also don't last very long.

Pros: Very comfortable, there's a reason the Blackhawk Desert Ops boot was a best-seller at US Calvary and came highly recommended. It is truly an athletic shoe made into a boot. The fact I could drive my manual transmission car with these boots without any breaking in is a testament to that. I am normally very picky about my footwear when driving.

Cons: Laces aren't as free moving due to the suede leather surfaces near the laces, the boot is still a bit heavy and doesn't breathe as well as it should for a "desert operations" boot.

Overall: 5/5 stars!