AKU NS 564 Bosco tactical boots haven’t been available in the US for some time. Now, Morrison Industries is bringing this popular boot back that was developed in conjunction with US Special Operations for a wide variety of missions to include HALO, amphibious and mountain operations. It’s a rugged multi-purpose boot that does NOT use a waterproof breathable liner meaning great breathability. After becoming a favorite of select US SOF units it is now quickly becoming a favorite with the British Armed Forces.

The NS 564 is constructed with a rugged and breathable AIR 8000 synthetic upper. They feature a 360-degree abrasion-resistant rand to minimize wear and tear. They have a Vibram SWOT outsole that makes them great for scrambling as well due to the sole’s edging capabilities and a flat area at the toe for toe point climbing. The internal Sanifit lining wicks away moisture produced by your foot at a very fast rate. Although the NS 564 has a slim-line midsole Aku’s internal midsole keeps your feet comfortable mile after mile, and the tough Bycast Rand offers great protection from rocky paths.

Now that we’ve gotten all of the technical stuff out of the way, let’s talk turkey about these boots.

I’ve had a pair of the AKU NS 564 Bosco “urban approach shoes” for years (going back to before I retired). When they first came into the country they were billed as an “urban approach shoe” which could be used for light trekking. The “Bosco” has been marketed as a Navy SEAL boot in Europe but nothing could be further from the truth. A customer asked a US distributor of the Italian brand AKU to have them create a special model from the upper from one boot and the sole from another. Then they slapped a new, subdued paint job on the thing.

This is a low topped, lightweight boot at 2 lbs, 6 oz a pair. The NS564 Bosco offers true sizing so no need to order a size larger or smaller. As mentioned, there’s no waterproof breathable liner. So consider that when you choose these. If you are in a wet environment your feet are going to get wet unless you use a waterproof breathable sock. If you need to go that route, take that, as well as your other socks (such as heavy socks), into account in sizing. The up side is that they are going to breathe very well and dry more quickly than boots with extensive lining systems.

The color is quite interesting. It’s a three tone boot consisting of a Light Brown suede paired with a Green nylon upper and a Black rand and sole. What’s interesting about the Green is that I’ve noticed over the years how adaptable it is. It appears more Brown when in a Brown environment and more Green when in a Green environment. Plus, as you use it, you’re going to get it dirty. Note, they are also offered in an all Black model.

Also, note the generous rand that protects the boot and helps you get a hold if you end up doing a little climbing in these. Additionally, I’ve always loved the lack of metal hooks. Parachutists will appreciate this feature as well as anyone who doesn’t like catching a hook while in the back country. Also, they are literally made for 550 cord laces. With some footwear this sticks out, but not these.

Remember, under the hood, these are approach shoes. They are intended for hiking and climbing. The actual soles are grippy but a word of caution. They are thin. Not uncomfortably so, but if your day consists of standing around then that insole replacement is crucial.

They are a great boot and I’m not the only one who thinks so. Canipe mentioned them over the weekend. He’s had them as long as I have and I’d say spends a lot more time in them than I do as I end up trying out different brands and I regularly see him wearing his. Canipe swears by the AKU. My big feedback is to swap out the insoles but I’ll tell you to do that with most any shoe. No matter the footwear, consider this in sizing.

Now, here’s the best part. SSD readers take a $10 discount now through Thursday 6 December at Midnight using code Discount Code: SSD-001 at checkout through morrison-industries.com.