Posted: 2/14/2010 7:23:39 PM EDT
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I am still looking to get me some boots I can use for hiking this summer. They tend to be a bit heavy but I have always had pretty good luck with milsurp boots.
I see some on eBay now and then and wonder about them. This is an interesting listing for some cold weather boots. http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-Black-Military-Army-Boots-COLD-WEATHER-Waterproof_W0QQitemZ200377161777QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_Men_s_Shoes?var=&hash=item746a5431d2 These might be OK for colder weather. And the price is right. Anyone have any experience with these boots? Are they legit milsurp or some kind of knockoff? What range of temperatures would they be useful in? |
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I have a pair of these boots I bought a couple of years ago. They have been a good cold weather boot for the $40 I paid for them from a surplus store. They are waterproof, and include a another set of Gore-Tex liners to wear if the boots get submerged, put the liners on and keep going. They are like 10" tall and are pretty comfortable after breaking them in. I have worn them while riding my ATV in 10F weather with no problems.I have also worn them alot this winter while working at the fire department, and have served well. Don't think IMO that would be ideal hiking boots, but have worn mine 12+ hours with no problems. Matched with a good pair of wool blend sooks they should keep your feet warm and toasty as long you are walking/moving around. Speed lacing and unlacing is a nice feature as well.
As far as being knockoffs, not sure. Many companies made them for the military I believe. Someone correct me if I'm wrong. I know mine are Belleville, but I have seen some that are marked Bates that look identical. |
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They look like some boots I was issued some years ago. Don't remember who manufactured them, but they look legit. Temp range? Depends on the socks, but I would say they are comfortable down to about zero with proper socks and maybe lower. I don't know since this is about the absolute I remember wearing them in.
About the only thing I can tell you is it will take you a long time to get them broken in. Think Matterhorns with an attitude. They are kind of heavy as well, but they do have a pretty good sole on them. Very sturdy. For that listed price, you really can't go wrong with trying them. |
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I wear those every day for work. Mine are brown, though. When worn with the quilted liners and wool socks, I have been fine down to -40F this winter. If I'm walking, I'll generate enough heat to keep my feet plenty warm. They are big, but managable. I got mine a half a size bigger to accomodate the liners, and I'm glad I did. They're not snug around the foot but I think that is good rather than bad for cold weather.
The soles are not great for walking on the ice, so be careful if you have to. ETA: picture! 
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Quoted:
I wear those every day for work. Mine are brown, though. When worn with the quilted liners and wool socks, I have been fine down to -40F this winter. If I'm walking, I'll generate enough heat to keep my feet plenty warm. They are big, but managable. I got mine a half a size bigger to accomodate the liners, and I'm glad I did. They're not snug around the foot but I think that is good rather than bad for cold weather. The soles are not great for walking on the ice, so be careful if you have to. Yeah, you have to learn how to do the Fairbanks Shuffle in those bad boys. Spend the money on a good pair of Danners or Matterhorns. Much better grip and quality. Spend the money, and you'll be glad you did. |