About Bates

our story

Bates is a brand grounded in the history of serving the people who keep us safe and the tradition of quality and value. As trends and culture change, so does the style of both clothing and communication. Bates provides footwear that has kept up with evolution over the years with design and innovation being at the forefront of all products. The Bates brand refresh is an evolution, not a revolution grounded with tradition but now with a fresh, new face. Founded in 1885, they are experts in crafting excellent footwear that not only looks good but most of all provides the comfort and durability that the modern consumer now needs.


LEADERS IN THE EMS COMMUNITY.

Bates boots are built for start-to-finish, 24/7 comfort because when the call comes in, it's time to move out.

OVER 140 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY.

Grounded in history… Bates was founded in 1885 by Andrew Jackson Bates.

INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY.

Bates is a leader in designing proprietary technologies that give you the comfort, support and reliability you expect.


1885

ANDREW JACKSON BATES FOUNDED AJ BATES & CO IN WEBSTER, MASSACHUSETTS

1930

BATES MANUFACTURES OVER ONE MILLION PAIRS OF SHOES FOR THE GOVERNMENT DURING WWII

1969

BATES WAS PURCHASED BY WOLVERINE WORLDWIDE

2003

BATES INTRODUCES ULTRA-LITES, OUR BEST-SELLING BOOTS OF THE GENERATION

2010

BATES CELEBRATES 125 YEARS.

2018

NEW LOGO IS INTRODUCED. OUR | REFRESHED LOGO REPRESENTS THE MODERN ATTITUDE OF THOSE WE SERVE. |

2022

TACTICAL SPORT 2 IS LAUNCHED, BUILDING UPON OUR MOST POPULAR BOOTS