Reebok RB8688 Rapid Response RB 6′ Side Zip
$124.95 price checked August 2026
If you require a waterproof boot that passes through airport security, this is the one to price-check.
Rapid Response RB Overview
The Reebok RB8688 Rapid Response RB 6′ Side Zip is for the professional seeking an airport-safe, waterproof combat boot that features a non-metallic construction.
You are preparing for a deployment or a job that requires you to move through security checkpoints while still needing gear that can handle wet conditions. Standard tactical boots often contain metal components that trigger alarms or lack the waterproofing needed for outdoor use.
The Reebok RB8688 Rapid Response RB 6′ Side Zip fits this scenario because it is non-metallic and airport safe. It uses a combination of genuine leather and ballistic nylon to provide a rugged exterior that stays waterproof.
This selection was made after we compared the other waterproof combat boot options we evaluated. This review is for the user who needs a specific blend of travel-ready compliance and weather resistance.
How Tactical Enclave picked: we started from the 133 most-reviewed waterproof combat boot listings in our retail dataset, removed duplicates, accessories and off-category products, and 19 qualified. This product is one of 14 from that pool chosen for a full review. Our scores blend buyer satisfaction (60%), price position against comparable products (25%) and rating volume (15%). Specifications come from manufacturer listings and ratings from verified Amazon buyer reviews (data checked August 2026).
The Short Answer on the Rapid Response RB
Best for: you need a waterproof combat boot that meets airport security requirements while providing a balance of leather and ballistic nylon durability.
The Reebok Rapid Response RB is a solid choice at $124.95.
- Pro: The waterproof rating ensures the boot remains dry in wet conditions.
- Pro: Non-metallic construction allows for easier passage through airport security.
- Pro: The use of genuine leather provides a durable upper material.
- Con: A 3.9 rating suggests some users may find the performance inconsistent compared to higher-rated options.
- Con: The ankle-high shaft height may not provide the maximum support required for heavy-load trekking compared to 8-inch or 10-inch boots.
Don’t buy this if: you require a boot that meets the AR 670-1 military standard for construction and durability.
Price assessment: The $124.95 price point is fair for a waterproof boot featuring genuine leather and ballistic nylon.
Tactical Enclave score: 7.2/10 (data-driven – see “How we picked” above)
For a different brand of waterproof footwear, read our full review of the Johnny Combat Boots.
You can also browse our top picks for waterproof tactical boots for various outdoor applications.
Specifications in Full
| Material | Genuine leather and ballistic nylon |
| Shaft height | Approximately ankle-high from arch |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Non-metallic | Yes |
| Airport safe | Yes |
The waterproof rating ensures the Rapid Response RB remains functional in wet conditions without compromising the non-metallic, airport-safe construction.
Where this sits in the buyer data: Among the 15 products screened for this category, this one’s 3.9 rating places it #13, on 53 ratings – below the 124-rating median of that group, so treat the average as less settled than its comparables. On price it undercuts 12 of them.
Before You Buy: Rapid Response RB Checklist
The first thing to check is the specific sizing for your foot shape, as combat boots often utilize a different last than standard athletic footwear.
- ☐ Confirm the material requirements — Genuine leather and ballistic nylon
- ☐ Verify the shaft height — Approximately ankle-high from arch
- ☐ Check the security clearance — Non-metallic and airport safe
- ☐ Confirm the weather protection — Waterproof
- ☐ Budget for the retail price — Around $124.95
You should not buy the Rapid Response RB if you require a high-top boot or a specific wide-toe box, as the data does not specify these dimensions.
To understand the different designs available, see the various types of waterproof combat boots explained.
What These Specifications Let You Do
Waterproof Protection
The Rapid Response RB features a waterproof construction that allows you to navigate deep puddles and heavy rain without moisture reaching your feet. Because the material is specified as waterproof rather than just water-resistant, it supports sustained exposure to wet conditions where a standard coating might fail.
Non-Metallic Security
The Rapid Response RB is non-metallic and airport safe, meaning you can pass through security checkpoints without the boot triggering metal detectors. This construction allows for easy travel while maintaining the durability of a combat boot.
Ballistic Nylon Durability
The Rapid Response RB uses genuine leather and ballistic nylon to resist abrasions and wear. The inclusion of ballistic nylon provides high-strength reinforcement in high-wear areas, while the genuine leather helps the boot maintain its structure at the flex point to prevent cracking.
How the Rapid Response RB Compares to Alternatives
The Rapid Response RB offers a non-metallic, airport-safe construction while maintaining a waterproof rating, providing a specific utility for travelers that several other options in our comparison lack.
- The Rapid Response RB costs $4.95 less than the Belleville 500 USMC Waterproof Combat Boot.
- The Bates Men’s 8 Inch Strike Side Zip Boot has a higher rating of 4.3 compared to the 3.9 rating of the Rapid Response RB.
- The Rapid Response RB is $5.04 less than the Original S.W.A.T. Alpha Fury 6″ Tactical Boot.
- The Magnum Men’s Viper Pro 5 SZ features electrical hazard protection, a spec not listed for the Rapid Response RB.
- The OXEXE Waterproof Tactical Boots are $9.96 cheaper than the Rapid Response RB.
If you require a boot with a higher consumer rating for general durability, the Bates Men’s 8 Inch Strike Side Zip Boot is the better choice over the Rapid Response RB.
Regarding the side zip, the provided data does not specify a price difference or structural trade-off compared to non-zip versions. You should check the manufacturer’s size guide and construction notes to determine if the side zip meets your specific entry requirements.
Rapid Response RB Buying Questions Answered
How does the side zip hold up on the Reebok RB8688 Rapid Response RB 6′ Side Zip?
The side zip on the Rapid Response RB is designed for quick entry, but durability depends on the integrity of the zipper teeth and slider. Because the product data does not specify a cycle rating or stress test for the zipper, you should check the manufacturer’s warranty details regarding zipper failure before purchasing.
Is the Reebok RB8688 Rapid Response RB 6′ Side Zip comfortable for 12-hour shifts?
Comfort for long shifts on concrete may be limited, as the Rapid Response RB holds a 3.9 rating from 53 buyer ratings. You should look for specific feedback regarding the interior lining and arch support in the user reviews to see if it meets your requirements for extended wear.
Is the Reebok RB8688 Rapid Response RB 6′ Side Zip airport safe?
Yes, the Rapid Response RB is non-metallic and airport safe. This allows you to pass through security checkpoints without the need to remove your footwear.
Is the Reebok RB8688 Rapid Response RB 6′ Side Zip waterproof?
Yes, the Rapid Response RB features a waterproof construction. This makes it suitable for use in wet conditions where moisture protection is required.
Is the Rapid Response RB Right for You?
The Rapid Response RB suits 5 kinds of buyer and is the wrong choice for 3 jobs, listed below with the reason for each.
Who the Rapid Response RB is for, and what it does well
Who the Rapid Response RB suits
- Security guards — the non-metallic and airport-safe construction allows for easy passage through security checkpoints
- Construction site supervisors — the waterproof genuine leather and ballistic nylon keep feet dry in wet conditions
- Warehouse workers — the side zip allows for quick entry and exit during frequent shifts
- Event staff — the airport-safe design permits easy transport and quick deployment at venues
- Outdoor maintenance workers — the waterproof material protects against mud and moisture during yard work
What the Rapid Response RB handles well
- Walking through puddles — the waterproof rating keeps moisture out
- Quick-change shifts — the side zip allows for faster donning than traditional lacing
- Security patrols — the non-metallic construction ensures compliance with security protocols
- Working in wet grass — the genuine leather and ballistic nylon provide durable moisture protection
- Traveling for work — the airport-safe design simplifies transit through security gates
What the Rapid Response RB is the wrong choice for
- Heavy-duty industrial safety — the ankle-high shaft height provides less protection than high-top boots
- Extreme winter hiking — the ankle-high height offers limited support for heavy snow trekking
- High-voltage electrical work — the non-metallic spec does not imply electrical insulation
What to budget alongside the Rapid Response RB, and what to skip
Worth buying at the same time
- Moisture-wicking socks — necessary to manage sweat inside the waterproof leather boot
- Boot polish — required to maintain the condition of the genuine leather material
- Waterproof spray — provides an extra layer of protection for the ballistic nylon components
- Replacement laces — useful for tightening the fit over the side zip mechanism
- Boot trees — helps maintain the shape of the leather during storage
What you can skip
- Waterproofing spray — the boot is already waterproof by design
- Metal detectors — the non-metallic construction makes them unnecessary for security clearance
- High-top protective boots — the ankle-high design is the intended specification
Where to Buy the Rapid Response RB
These retailers sell Waterproof Combat Boot generally – we do not track which of them has this particular model in stock, so check availability and the current price with the retailer before making a trip.
- Amazon (online only) — breadth of range
- Tactical Gear Store (online only) — specialist staff
- Academy Sports + Outdoors (online and physical stores) — in-store returns
- Bass Pro Shops (online and physical stores) — physical store availability
- Cabela’s (online and physical stores) — physical store availability
- Sierra Trading Post (online and physical stores) — outlet pricing
Final Verdict on the Rapid Response RB
If you need an airport-safe, waterproof boot that balances leather durability with ballistic nylon, the Reebok Rapid Response RB is a practical choice at around $124.95.
The Rapid Response RB ranks well for versatility because it combines genuine leather and ballistic nylon in a non-metallic design that allows for easy security clearance.
Skip it if: you require a high-cut boot for heavy-duty support, as this model features an ankle-high shaft.
The other Waterproof Combat Boot guides we have published
- Best Waterproof Tactical Boots for Hiking
- Waterproof Combat Boots for Cold Weather Compared
- Choosing the Best Waterproof Combat Boots for Heavy Duty Work
- The Waterproof Tactical Boots That Work Best for Side Zip Entry
- Which Waterproof Combat Boots are Best for Men?
- Best Waterproof Tactical Boots for Outdoor Use