Über Group says “Says aren’t the droids you’re looking for” but I beg to differ. These seems to be the droids that I didn’t know I was looking for. I was going to buy a new pair of Salomons this summer but now I wonder if I should hold off. Or is it all just one big tease?
During SHOT Show Arc’teryx launched the new Mattock Drysock LT which marked their first foray into footwear. There have been GORE-TEX® socks on the market for decades so the question you have to ask yourself is, “Why should I choose the Mattock?”
We just opened the pool so I had Tactical Fanboy put on the Mattock last night and left him soaking overnight to see how he fared. Just kidding, it wasn’t overnight, but he experienced two sessions. One thing he didn’t notice was one of the most common sensations when wearing GORE-TEX® in a fully submerged environment. Even after 15 minutes he didn’t notice that slight clamminess you may experience when you wear GORE-TEX® next to the skin. This was thanks to his Darn Tough socks and trouser legs. He said he could feel the pressure of the water pushing the Mattock tight against his feet and legs but that he was bone dry. Once he came out of the pool, his clothing and feet were perfectly dry. Arc’teryx has that seam taping down to a science.
Having worn them, I feel there are three things that make the Mattock stand out. First, the fit. Designed to be worn inside footwear, the Mattock are sized XS – XXL and articulated to integrate with the footbed. This will help with hot spots but I suggest that you consider your sock thickness and boot fit when choosing your Mattock. Also, take a little care when putting your boots on in order to smooth the material of the Mattock as much as possible in order to avoid creating pressure points.
Second is the height. The Mattock goes all the way to the knee so that you won’t step into a puddle and walk out with a sock full of water.
And finally, is the Velcro strap that keeps the Mattock in place so that you aren’t spending all of your time pulling them up.
Overall, the advantage offered by the Mattock is pretty big. You can add the protection of GORE-TEX® to your feet when you need it, essentially upgrading your boots for wet environments. Offered in Crocodile and MultiCam.
Serket has unveiled their line of Berry compliant US Merino wool socks, designed specifically for the specialized demands of the armed forces and elite law enforcement in collaboration with Point6.
“Serket set out to find the best wool sock in the outdoor industry and all roads led straight to Point6,”said Serket President, Trey Harris. “Point6 founder Peter Duke is one of the originators of the high-performance, high-quality Merino wool sock. This partnership allows Serket to bring the best the outdoor industry has to offer to the men and women of the armed forces.”
The Serket line of socks use the highest quality Merino wool fibers combined with state-of-the-art spinning and knitting techniques to create exceptionally soft Merino products. A high-tech spinning process allows for implementation of more Merino fibers per inch, creating remarkably soft wool that is never scratchy, itchy or bulky and more resistant to pilling and wear than traditional wool. I’ve been wearing the two models shown in the photos for the past few weeks and they are great. Granted, I’m quite familiar with the Point6 brand, and won’t hesitate to recommend them. My experience with Point6 is that they are heardwearing yet very comfortable.
Available in Light, Mid and Heavy Weights, the socks are offered in a variety of heights to effectively interface with a variety of boots and climates. Serket socks are made in the USA with both TAA compliant and Berry compliant Merino wool blends.
-Light, medium and heavy weights
-Mid-calf and lower calf or crew heights
-100% domestically sourced Merino wool
-Engineered with a precise anatomical fit
-Unique looped toe closure which eliminates sewn seam and irritation over toes
-Extra cushioning under foot and around leg to protect against pressure points and boot chaffing
-Ankle brace
-Ventilation panels
-Reinforcement in wear areas
-Arch support
-Deep heel pocket
-Exceptional cross stretch
-Naturally anti-microbial and odor resistant with superior moisture management capabilities
-Available colors include Coyote Brown, Desert Sand, Predator Tan and Black.
Early evaluation among users in the military and LE communities has yielded very positive reviews. A forward deployed operator with NSW Team Four remarked, “I am highly impressed with the Serket-Point6 sock. It holds up well, remains comfortable and seems to be the best balance I have seen between comfort and durability. “
For more information or to hear what other customers have to say about the Serket sock, contact them at info@serketusa.com .
The MultiCam® Vans® LXVI released at SHOT Show are now available directly from Crye Precision.
www.cryeprecision.com/C-236/MultiCam®-Vans®-LXVI
ADS Inc ran an exclusive production run of the 4D Quest in Brown after Salomon dropped the color last year. It’s a lightweight, Gore-tex lined boot that I my go-to model for serious terrain. See the video here.
Available this Summer for Unit and Agency purchase from ADS Inc and for individual sale from Tactical Distributors.
The LSA ( Land Sea Air) Terrain and Water boots have been out for about a year but they’ve been updated from earlier models. The uppers are the same for both models.
The Terrain boot features a Lenzi puncture resistant sole and incorporates drainage holes like found on he old Jungle Boot. Currently, these are a 6″ boot but Oakley is working on an 8″ version. Available in MultiCam, Black, Desert and Coyote sizes 6-13, 14.
The LSA Boot Water uses ribbon laces as well as Scothguard treatment to lower water absorption. The quick drain sole relies on steel mesh to protect the foot and stippling for a sure grip on wet surfaces.
CFF’s own Matt Griffin has vowed to run with the bulls this year, in his own Combat Flip Flops no less. The goal is to get Afghan factories back up and running. This is week one of his training.
Follow CFF on Facebook to keep up-to-date on Griff’s quest.
Extreme Outfitters is offering 25% OFF the Roclite 295 Tactical. Available in black or desert tan, this comfortable footwear is perfect for PT, trail running, the gym or everyday wear.
www.extremeoutfitters.us/roclite295-1
