Bates Cobra Boots

I’m pleased to report that contrary to popular opinion we do indeed have long spells of hot, dry weather in the UK, and this summer has been one that has seemed to go on and on! Being out on the range each week, and also out in the woods for extended periods means that I’ve really been able to put some of my 2019 “test boots” quite literally through their paces, and one pair that I’ve totally enjoyed having on my feet are the “Cobra” models from US footwear brand Bates.

These coyote-tan coloured boots feature Bates anti-fatigue Endurance Performance System, delivering the comfort that you want with the durability that you need. In terms of construction they are made using Abrasion Resistant Flesh-Out Cattle Hide Leather with Abrasion Resistant Nylon; the leather is both medial and lateral perforated for added breathability.

Fine feet fare

The boots also feature a moisture wicking mesh lining to keep your feet dry when the temperature climbs, with a high padded collar for comfort and support. Inside you get Bates Anti-Fatigue Endurance Performance System (EPS) providing all day comfort and flexibility, along with a cushioned removable insert for added underfoot comfort. There’s a Multi Terrain Slip Resistant Rubber Outsole for added traction control, and overall their construction provides a lightweight and flexible platform.

These days many manufacturers seem to concentrate on mid cut models with the cuff ending just above the ankle bone, and whilst in many conditions this is absolutely fine, sometimes there is a real benefit to the high cut, and with 8-inch collar the Cobra’s certainly offer the additional support and stability that entails. You can certainly see the military heritage in the Cobra’s, although I have to admit they look just as good with a pair of jeans as with a tactical pant! They’re certainly lowprofile enough to wear on a daily basis, and trust me when I say that once you’ve got them bedded to your feet, they’re a boot that you’re going to want to wear day in, day out!

Masterly

The EPS means that these are also equally at home in an urban environment as they are out in the woods; long-term wear on hard cement and asphalt surfaces can really give your feet a harder time than you think, and the Bates offer super levels of comfort hour after hour. That said they are no slouch when it comes to the “rough stuff” and in the mountains I found the outsole to perform well in terms of grips even on loose shale and in the wet.

Due to an historical heel/ ankle injury I have to be a bit careful these days in what I use when the going gets tough, and for me the added height of the Cobra’s collar really worked well, providing great levels of support and stability, whilst the moisture wicking materials kept my feet comfortable even when the heat of the day was at its highest!

Conclusion

All in all the Bates Cobra’s are great boots for the summer months and for hot climates, and I can only thank my friends at tactree.co.uk for providing me with a test sample