Feb/100
Airman Battle Uniform Boot Test Results
Late last month Air Force Uniform Office released the results of a boot test to find the best stain-resistant properties for current-issue ABU boots.
The winning configuration was a mix of full-grain leather with a rubber toe and stain-resistant heel cap.
“The latest test boots have smooth leather, like the old black boots,” said Richard Keefer, AFUO chief, in a prepared statement. “The intent was to try a boot that is easy to clean, will not stain and hides scuffs and wear from industrial use.”
In August testers outfitted 200 men at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., with four types of hot weather boots in sage green. The wear test lasted 45 days and participants provided feedback on a comment logs, surveys and a focus group. The most common complaint, according to the AFUO, was traction.
For now, commanders will be authorized to wear black boots in work areas until a stain-resistant boot is produced.
