Bellville 390’s with the toe caps removed. I remove all toe caps prophylactically and also have drain holes installed. I do this because I have had two sets of toe caps collapse and buckle up, which absolutely effed up the top of my toes. One happened while patrolling in swamps, one while patrolling in snowy mountains. Both were with older black boots. If I remember correctly, one was with the latest goretex lined temperate weather boot, and the other was with jungles. This is not unheard of with any brand of issued boot.
I’ve also had the liner separate in the back heel portion of the goretex bellvilles.
I’m into Smartwool socks, and the REI brand knockoffs. Wear well broken in boots, and never try anything new for the first time on a long movement. In other words, if you haven’t used a fancy trick like antiperspirant on your feet, don’t try it out on a 40 miler. Socks come in different thickness. Don’t change brands before a 40 miler.
For extended patrols, I bring two thicknesses of socks, and the thinner ones go on after my feet have swollen after a few days.
I don’t know why I’m talking in the present tense. I haven’t worn issue boots on long movements in like 5 years.
RLTW
Former Action Guy
Disclosure: I am affiliated PRN with a tactical training center, but I speak only for myself. I have no idea what we sell, other than CLP and training. I receive no income from sale of hard goods.
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