Bates Footwear GX-8 GORE-TEX® Side-Zip SKU: #7474220

Anonymous

I purchased these boots from Zappos to replace an identical pair that I had purchased about a year and a half before for use at work as a full-time paramedic, so I'll make some comparisons between the old and new. The old pair has a slightly different cosmetic design but overall this seems to be about the same style and fit. It is a snug fit and seems to be taking a while for the boot to break in properly, but I believe this was an issue with my old pair as well. The old gore-tex sock/boot ripped free of its attachment to the inside of the boot about a year ago (six months into its use) and may have damaged the waterproofing of the old boot. So far the gore-tex sleeve in this new boot seems to be more tightly secured. Here's to hoping. When first wearing the boots they are very tight and almost difficult to slide my foot in and out of the boot because of the gore-tex layer and sock or whatever. However, in time this breaks in a bit and I expect that this will not be a problem. The waterproofing on the boots is very good, and they are nice and warm in icy cold weather. One caveat is that like any rubber-soled boot, they have pretty good slip resistance on wet surfaces, but not ice. If you are using these in winter, buy yourself a pair of crampons or grips like Yaktrax. These boots offer great ankle support and decent arch support - I recently slipped on ice at work on a fire scene (see above) and broke my leg. Were I not wearing these boots, I am pretty sure I would have had a much worse break. Overall, I like these boots as this is the second pair that I have owned.

Anonymous

from Bellingham, WA

After a month, I'm still delighted with these boots. They're comfortable and very well-made. The fit is very precise, so be forewarned. I'm usually an 11.5; ordered the 12 to allow for boot socks. Nope, felt huge. Ordered the 11 thinking they just ran large. Nope, too short. The right size is just the right size. After too many pairs of cheap "light hikers" over the years, it's gratifying to feel like these are going to last for years. The side-zip is a terrific design; more boots should do that.

Don K

from Lake Tapps, WA

These boots are the greatest. Can't say anything bad about them. I should mention that I had to order a size smaller than I usually do. My true shoe size is 13-1/2, but nobody in the world makes that size, so I always order size 14 shoes, since 13s are always too small. With these boots, a 13 was perfect for me. So if you wear a half size, you might want to round it down.

J. C

from Newark, Ohio

This is a great product at a great price at Zappos. I wear it for everyday patrol, it is great for running and has good traction on all surfaces.

Frank S

from Long Island, NY

This boot fits really well. I followed the advice from other reviews. I ordered one size smaller than what I usually wear. The lower size fit perfectly. The zipper is great and the boot feels really warm. It appears to be well made but winter has not come yet so time will tell.

Anonymous

from Austin, Texas

I've worn these boots about 300 days of the past year. I bought them for motorcycle boots but they are so comfortable I wear them for anything. They are very stable and prevent my foot from rolling. I wish they were a nubuck or rough side out, since I hate to shine shoes. I recommend them highly.

Anonymous

I use them for motorcycle riding and am very happy. I've worn them all day when I rode my bike to work and didn't feel any discomfort. They are well ventilated and are pretty light. Haven't tested them in the rain yet. One thing: they seem to fit better for people who have "tall" feet.

Sat k

from San Francisco

I bought these boots hoping they would be functional as well a look cool. They look good but they are flimsy. I can bend the toe of the shoe back to touch the laces with barely any pressure: they provide very little support. I emailed Bates and their response was not helpful.

Sat k

from San Francisco

I bought these boots hoping they would be functional as well a look cool. they look good but they are flimsy. I can bend the toe of the shoe back to touch the laces with barely any pressure: they provide very little support. I emailed Bates and their response was not helpful.

Sat k

from San Francisco, CA

For looks only! I bought these boots hoping they would be functional as well as look cool. they look good but they are flimsy. I can bend the toe of the shoe back to touch the laces with barely any pressure: they provide very little support. I emailed Bates and their response was not helpful.

Anonymous

from Cooperstown, NY

I'm a paramedic and these boots have been through everything with me. I will never go back to anything else. Cool enough in the summer and warm enough (with wool socks) for winter while protecting my ankles and keeping me from slipping. I'm on my third pair and they last me about two years of hard use and I'm sure when these give out I'll get another pair.

Anonymous

from NH

We have ordered this same item twice before and this time it's too small. Maybe made in a different country this time. Will reoder in 1/2 size larger. Great boot.

Jennifer

from Southbury, CT

Bought these boots for my husband who is a police officer. They are great we usually order his shoes from another company, but found Zappos carried them for less than we usually pay. And of course they ship faster! They give great support and comfort especially for someone who is on their feet a lot.

Ryan B

from Chicago, IL

The boots appear to be made well. I have been wearing them for about a month and they show little wear on the leather. They shine up really well, for those officers who are required. They can get a little hot, but that is expected of waterproof boots. These are a good value. The sizing is not ideal. I normally wear a 10, but these run long and narrow. I started with a 10 but they were a size too big. When I swapped them for a 9, the 9 was too narrow, so I settled on a 9 wide. They fit perfect. I have never had to get a wide shoe or boot before so it is the boot not my foot. Thanks to Zappos for the amazing exchange policy as this was very easy to get the right size and I will be purchasing from them in the future.

Brands I'd also recommend: Magnum, Oakley