For the first time in nearly a decade, the Marine Corps is working to develop a new combat boot with the goal of offering Marines a standard-issue option that is lighter, faster drying and has a repairable outsole.
It’s part of Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Robert Neller’s push to give Marines more choices when it comes to boots and footwear — and to potentially certify a host of new manufacturers to sell Marine-approved boots in the exchanges.
“Gen. Neller has asked the program office to … take the Marine combat boot that is in the seabag now and make that a better boot,” said Todd Towles, the program officer for the clothing team at Marine Corps Systems Command.
Marines have complained that the current combat boot, first fielded in 2002, is too heavy.
A new version of combat boots will be tested at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego later this year. Roughly 200 recruits will receive and test the new boots, according to Gunnery Sgt. Donald Bohanner, a spokesperson for the recruit depot.
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Photo courtesy of Marine Corps