Combat boots are normally considered to be those boots developed for the purpose of providing a combination of grip, ankle stability, and foot protection suitable to a rugged enviroment. They are intended mainly, though not solely, for the use of the armed forces. They are normally made of hardened and/or chemically-treated leather and can be waterproof. More modern military boots are beginning to integrate kevlar and nomex within their side panels to provide better protection and ventilation for the skin of the soldiers who wear them.

Combat boots are also popular in the punk, metalhead, skinhead, and BDSM subcultures.