Best Tactical Hiking Boots in Australia

Tactical hiking boots sit between traditional hiking footwear and hard-wearing work boots. They are designed for customers who want trail-ready grip and cushioning alongside durable uppers, supportive construction and practical features such as waterproof membranes or side zips.

Below, we compare five of the best tactical hiking boots available in Australia from Merrell and Reebok. Each option suits a slightly different combination of hiking, outdoor work and everyday use.

Explore the complete range through GearOut’s outdoor and work boots or browse our dedicated hiking boots and trail shoes.

Our Top Tactical Hiking Boots

• Best overall: Merrell MOAB 3 Tactical Mid Waterproof
• Best lightweight option: Merrell MOAB Speed 2 Mid Waterproof
• Best cushioning and trail grip: Merrell Agility Peak 5 Tactical GORE-TEX
• Best rugged side-zip boot: Reebok Trailgrip 8" Side Zip
• Best work-to-trail crossover: Reebok Hyperium 6" Trail Running Work Boot

1. Merrell MOAB 3 Tactical Mid Waterproof

Best overall tactical hiking boot

The Merrell MOAB 3 Tactical Mid is the strongest all-round option for customers who want a recognisable hiking platform with added durability for outdoor work and demanding everyday use.

Its waterproof membrane helps protect against wet conditions, while the Vibram® TC5+ outsole provides dependable traction across dirt, rock and uneven ground. Underfoot, a COMFORTBASE™ footbed, Merrell Air Cushion heel and Super Rebound Compound midsole help reduce impact during longer days.

The mid-height design provides useful ankle coverage without the bulk of a full eight-inch work boot. It is a particularly good choice for hiking, trail walking, outdoor work and customers who spend extended periods on their feet.

Best for: General hiking, outdoor work and all-day wear.

2. Merrell MOAB Speed 2 Mid Waterproof

Best lightweight tactical hiking boot

The MOAB Speed 2 Mid Waterproof is a lighter and more athletic alternative to a traditional leather hiking boot. It combines a waterproof suede upper with responsive FloatPro™ Foam cushioning and a high-traction Merrell rubber outsole.

A moulded nylon arch shank adds stability on uneven terrain, while the COMFORTBASE™ contoured footbed supports the foot during longer walks. Its recycled mesh lining also improves breathability compared with heavier full-leather designs.

At approximately 510 grams per boot, it is not an ultralight trail runner, but it provides a useful balance of support, durability and freedom of movement.

Best for: Fast hiking, travel, lighter outdoor work and customers who dislike heavy boots.

3. Merrell Agility Peak 5 Tactical GORE-TEX

Best for cushioning and technical terrain

The Merrell Agility Peak 5 Tactical GORE-TEX takes more inspiration from modern trail-running footwear than a conventional work boot. Its FloatPro™ Foam midsole provides lightweight cushioning, while the Vibram® MegaGrip® outsole delivers strong traction across wet, dry and uneven surfaces.

A GORE-TEX® membrane provides waterproof protection without completely sacrificing breathability. The boot also includes an abrasion-resistant upper, protective rock plate and bellows tongue to help shield the foot from rough terrain and trail debris.

This is the strongest choice for customers prioritising cushioning, grip and long-distance comfort over the rigid structure of a heavier work boot.

Best for: Long trail days, uneven terrain and lightweight waterproof performance.

View more options in our Merrell footwear collection.

4. Reebok Trailgrip 8" Side Zip

Best rugged side-zip tactical boot

The Reebok Trailgrip 8" is a more substantial boot designed for customers who need additional coverage, workplace protection and easy entry.

Its leather and ballistic-nylon upper is paired with a YKK® side zip, allowing the boot to be removed without completely relacing it each time. DMXRide Cushion Foam and a removable MemoryTech footbed provide cushioning, while the forefoot stability bar and MicroWeb lacing system support the foot during movement.

The outsole is rated to ASTM F3445 slip-resistance standards and is designed to resist oil, heat, chemicals, abrasion and metal chips. It also carries an Electrical Hazard rating, making it more work-focused than the three Merrell options above.

The taller eight-inch build will feel heavier on recreational hikes, but it is a strong choice for customers moving between worksites, rough ground and outdoor environments.

Best for: Outdoor work, side-zip convenience and customers wanting maximum ankle coverage.

5. Reebok Hyperium 6" Trail Running Work Boot

Best lightweight work-to-trail crossover

Despite the “trail running” name, the Reebok Hyperium is better understood as an athletic work and security boot rather than a dedicated running shoe.

It uses FuelFoam cushioning and a MemoryTech footbed to provide a softer, more trainer-like feel than traditional tactical footwear. The six-inch height offers moderate ankle coverage, while the side zip allows faster entry and removal.

Its slip-resistant outsole and ASTM F2892 Electrical Hazard certification make it suitable for mixed workplace use. However, customers planning regular long-distance hiking may prefer the deeper trail grip and more hiking-specific construction of the Merrell Agility Peak or MOAB models.

Best for: Active work, urban use, security roles and occasional light trails.

Which Tactical Hiking Boot Should You Choose?

Choose the Merrell MOAB 3 Tactical Mid when you want the most balanced option for hiking, work and everyday use.

Choose the MOAB Speed 2 or Agility Peak 5 when lighter weight, cushioning and trail performance are your main priorities.

Choose the Reebok Trailgrip when you need an eight-inch side-zip boot with additional workplace protection. The Reebok Hyperium is better for fast-moving work and mixed urban or outdoor use than serious hiking.

Shop Tactical Hiking Boots in Australia

The right boot depends on the terrain, weather and type of work you expect it to handle. Check each product page carefully for waterproofing, safety ratings, materials and sizing before making your selection.

Shop GearOut’s complete range of outdoor and work boots, or compare more hiking boots and trail shoes from Merrell, Reebok, Under Armour and 5.11 Tactical.