Hey, that DL question person is me
I bought a pair from oakley si. I don't have any experience in EMS, but have been a infantryman in the national guard and a few guys in my unit have sworn by oakley boots. I did some research and found some negative reviews about the sole coming lose after 6 months and stitching issues. I hoped they had solved that but have learned they have not. This stupid video sold me on the assault boots
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvOThOENE94
The boot is comfortable no doubt. But the sole has already started to come off a little bit on my left boot. The leather got scratched very easily one day when dragged my foot barely a couple inches after a long day when I was tired (I know my fault, but still.. The tip looks like crap now). The sole grip on the bottom still have plenty, but just looking at it I can tell it will wear fast.
Goes to show that just because a company makes particular high quality items in one category doesn't mean they necessarily will in another. Marketing got me from oakley. I'll stick with oakley sunglasses, but that is all.
I've had altamas(issued very crappy), rockys, danners, and blackhawks. I'm going to be buying a black pair of danners when I start working in a couple months. Danners have never failed me.