Viper Tactical Sneakers

It seems to me that the UK is really going through an epiphany in relation to purpose-built indoor CQB sites at the moment; these can be large affairs like the mighty Strikeforce in Gloucester or Grange Live Gaming in Birmingham, or they can be small and intimate like the one run by Darkwater Airsoft in Ashford, only 20-minutes up the road from where I live.

Your choice of kit for playing these sites will probably be radically different from what you would use on an outdoor site, as you do not have to contend with the environmental conditions so much. Outside, for most of the year in the UK, you’re going to need water repellent or waterproof clothing, along with some good Gore-Tex lined footwear. The footwear also needs to be of sturdy construction, offering high levels of support and protection, as you’ll need to be able to overcome uneven, maybe rocky, ground, along with muddy paths and wet tree roots.

When it comes to playing indoors however, things get a little more laid back in relation to your clothing and footwear. Yes, you’re still going to want to keep well covered against BB strikes, and given the shorter engagement distances turn to some type of full-face protection, but you can genuinely afford to run much lighter than outdoors.

Ultra-Light!

When I first received a pair of the new Tactical Sneaker boots from the lads at VIPER and lifted them clear of the box my first thought was: “Wow! Now these are LIGHT!” and when I weighed one of the size 10s, I was proved correct, as the scales registered just 392g; you heard that right, a pair of tactical boots weighing under 800g a pair! If you consider that my Speedcross running shoes weigh 322g each, this will help to put things in perspective.

Available in UK sizes 6-12, the Tactical Sneakers are an ultra-lightweight boot, which has a sports-fit. You might want to consider going up a size from your standard tactical boot sizing; I’m usually a good size nine and was advised to go for a 10 and the fit for me is perfect, with no unnecessary volume and no felt pressure in evidence.

The boots have a Cordura side and tongue, and an overall suede finish, which looks great; the clever choice of Cordura here means that the weight is kept down and the durability up. They also have a vented instep to help with breathability, and a multi-sectioned sole for better manoeuvrability and grip.

The ankle cuff is reinforced with the same suede material as the toe area of the boots, and this helps both with comfort and support. The Tactical Sneakers are never going to give you as much ankle support as something like a full tactical boot, but there’s certainly enough there for indoor, especially as these CQB sites all benefit from nice flat floors!

Available in Black, Coyote, and Tan these are great value at just £44.50. If you’re planning on playing indoors, and you abide by the mantra that ‘light is right’, then the Tactical Sneakers could be just the footwear you’ve been looking for!