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Archive for the ‘Boots’ Category

Inspiration or Imitation?

Wednesday, October 29th, 2008

Wellco

Wellco has always been known for putting out a very high quality product. In fact, they not only developed the Direct Molded Sole technology that made GI issue boots possible for half a century, it spun off into an entire business unit called Ro-Search. They also spawned “blast boots” with soles that deflect the blast of a landmine explosion. So naturally when we saw the new Eurolite from Wellco, we were surprised that it made us immediately think of the Timberland Euro Hiker. Take a look for yourself.

Wellco Eurolite Timberland Euro Hiker

Keen Boots

Monday, October 20th, 2008

Keen

Keen footwear is rising in popularity among military personnel. Not only are the sandals a favorite for off-duty wear both at home station as well as deployed to an FOB, but Keen’s new line of hikers have found favor in unit’s with more relaxed uniform standards. An informal survey among one deployed SOF unit showed more personnel wearing Keen than any other single brand.

Keen Voyager Mid

For a look at the entire Keen range check out their website.

OTB Jungle Boot Update

Saturday, October 18th, 2008

OTB Footwear LLC

During the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market our fearless Editor filed a report on OTB’s upcoming land warfare boot inspired by the venerable US GI Jungle Boot. We have recently come into some sneak peeks of additional colors.

The as-yet-unnamed boots (do you feel a “name that boot contest” coming on?) will be available in Desert Tan, Black with OD panels, and Black. Additionally, a Black microfiber version will feature a composite safety toe with drainage from the bottom. This boot is perfect for diver’s dress.

OTB Jungle Boot - TanOTB Jungle Boot - GreenOTB Jungle Boot - Black

As you can see, the sole is very similar to the issue Panama tread.

OTB Jungle Boot - Sole

OTB not only makes an innovative product but they add extra features like quality insoles and sausage laces that don’t come untied.

Check out OTB Boots, LLC for their full line of currently available footwear.

Lowa Boots – Spy Photos

Wednesday, October 15th, 2008

We previously wrote about Lowa Boots at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market. What we didn’t talk about was a meeting the Editor sat in on with Lowa USA, discussing the development of the first US market Task Force boots. Previously, all Task Force boots have been designed for the European market and eventually brought here to the US. Based on the highly successful AL-X line, these three new tactical boots will be lightweight yet provide excellent ankle support. Also, both of the mid-height boots feature closed eyelets.

Please remember that these are all prototypes and the styles may change before they reach market. They are tentatively slated for release in Spring 09.

Below is the Desert Mid variant. It is not lined with Gore-tex.

Lowa Task Force AL-X Tactical Desert Mid

This version is a Black Gore-tex lined boot intended for Law Enforcement.

Lowa Task Force AL-X GTX Black Mid

The low top version below will probably not be lined with Gore-tex in order to keep the price point down and because a boot is really better suited to sustained wet weather. It is intended for tactical training such as hand to hand or range time as well as for light duties such as bike patrol.

Lowa Task Force AL-X GTX Black Low

The new Lowa boots will be available from AFMO.

Bates Wins Special Operations Forces Contract to Manufacture High Performance Tactical Combat Boot

Friday, September 26th, 2008

SOF Lightweight Combat Boot

Bates developed the Tactical Combat Boot specifically to provide enhanced durability, stability, and traction in urban and field operations. The Vibram® Mutant outsole creates superior traction on wet and dry surfaces, while the direct-attach construction provides superior cushioning and durability. The anti-bacterial, abrasion-resistant Dri-Lex® Camo lining delivers enhanced moisture management and ensures soldiers’ feet remain cool, dry and comfortable.

“Bates is committed to being the leader in providing footwear solutions for all branches of the US Military – We intend to achieve this goal by leveraging a wide range of technologies and development expertise throughout Wolverine World Wide’s array of footwear brands such as Merrell and Wolverine Brand,” said Ron Woznick, Vice President and General Manager of Bates Footwear. “We feel privileged to provide yet another new footwear solution for our nation’s elite combat forces needs.”

The Special Forces Tactical Combat Boot joins the Chem Bio Protective Overboot and the Tora Bora(TM) Alpine Combat Boot as the mission footwear of choice for the Special Forces. All three products are manufactured with 100% domestic materials at Bates facilities in Big Rapids, Michigan and Jonesboro, Arkansas, maintaining the company’s commitment to manufacturing in the United States.

Bates is a leading supplier of uniform footwear to all branches of the U.S. military and has been building a reputation for uncompromising performance in uniform footwear for more than 120 years. Engineered advancements such as Bates DuraShocks® comfort system, Ultra-Lites® technology and Bates Individual Comfort System combine to set the brand apart and cement its status as the gold standard in uniform footwear. For more information and to view product lines, visit www.batesfootwear.com.

With a commitment to service and product excellence, Wolverine World Wide, Inc. is one of the world’s leading marketers of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport, uniform footwear and apparel. Wolverine’s portfolio of highly recognized brands includes: Bates®, Hush Puppies®, HYTEST®, Merrell®, Sebago® and Wolverine®. The Company is also the exclusive footwear licensee of popular brands including CAT®, Harley- Davidson® and Patagonia®. The Company’s products are carried by leading retailers in the U.S. and globally in nearly 200 countries.

Lowa Black Elite

Thursday, September 25th, 2008

Lowa Black Elite

A new version of the Lowa Desert Elite which is a heavy duty desert boot based on the famous Lowe “Berg Schuhe” or Mountain Boot, called the Black Elite is now available but only in the UK. The boot does not feature a Gore-tex lining due to its intended purpose but does offer Cambrelle lining in the heel cup paired with a Vita-tex lining throughout the entire boot. Unlike new Lowa boots being released for use in the US, the Black Elite has open top hooks.

Available in the UK from RV Ops.

FiveTen’s New Tactical Footwear

Sunday, August 31st, 2008

In a recent article we discussed FiveTen’s new tactical footwear models unveiled at the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market. The four new models can be seen in the graphic below.
The Impact – Urban Enforcer (High and Low) come in Matte Black and the Impact – Desert Enforcer (High and Low) come in Sand.

FiveTen’s New Footwear

For more information contact FiveTen.

Interesting Blogs to Check Out

Saturday, August 30th, 2008

QuanticoBoot.com Blog

The Camo Side of Dominic Hyde

Strike Hold