Ahh yes the never ending "Should I buy boots for I-day" thread.

Alpineskier

Alpineskier

5-Year Member
Joined
Oct 30, 2012
Messages
111
Ok I know this question is asked every year (See links bellow) but there never seems to be a consensus. Some people say "My DS wished he had" or "I never did and I'm glad" so I just want to know what people say. And another question is if I did buy a pair of Rocky S2V sage green boots (from blackbird on the first post) that cost $200 wouldn't they be ruined at Jacks Valley by all the mud? So if I did should I buy them for after BCT. Thanks for your input.

Links:
http://www.serviceacademyforums.com/showthread.php?t=29739
http://www.serviceacademyforums.com/showthread.php?t=18584
http://www.serviceacademyforums.com/showthread.php?t=17021&page=4
 
You wouldn't even be able to wear them during BCT. Everyone is issued two pairs of a sturdy, Goretex boot, and those are the ones you will wear during BCT. Wait till afterwards to buy a pair.
 
You will not be allowed to wear anything but your issued boots during BCT. You'll probably want to buy a lighter pair of boots (Rocky, Nike, etc) AFTER basic, but I recommend that you wait until then because squadron policies vary (I was not allowed to wear non-issued boots until after recognition).
 
Nike SFB

One of my friends at the Academy said that I should get the Nike special field boot for after BCT. His squadron let him wear them after BCT was over but as Falcongirl said squadrons are different.
 
I'm not buying boots before I-Day. I talked to a few cadets who had brought their own and they said it really wasn't worth it.
 
DS brought sage boots and wore them for inprocessing. Doesn't need much breaking in but was able to get used to running in it before Iday. Was issued extra pair so cost of another boot not deducted from pay(extra pizza $)
There were a number of appointees with their boots around their neck so it's not just my DS who brought boots last June. And it survived Jack's. Still got him Nike after BCT.
 
My 2 cents based on my daughter's experience:
1. if you don't normally wear boots, you'll want to buy some and get used to them. Run in them, take a few hikes, etc. My daughter never wears shoes, let alone boots, so it was good for her.
2. if you want to get insoles, buy the boots first and get the insoles that fit.
3. Do not buy anything except the brand and model described in the information sent to you by USAFA.
4. Yes, they issue you 2 pairs of boots, but my daughter told them she had a pair and they only issued her one (remember the issued stuff gets deducted from their pay so it's not a waste). The pair we bought her at home is still the pair she uses, even after they went through BCT. She says they just feel better to her.

it is a purely personal choice and do what you want. My daughter was glad she did.
 
Yes. I think in the second packet of stuff, the one with the uniform measurement forms, vaccination forms, etc., they provide you with the make and model. We went to the nearest base exchange and were able to buy them there. I believe you can also order them online, but I'd suggest you try them on. My daughter tried on a couple sizes, with various socks, to get a good fit.

Again, there are many who have said don't bother, but it did help my daughter alot to know that the boots she was going to live in for the next 6 weeks had been on her feet before.

Good luck and take care!
 
Boots and Cleats

The Instructions say:
Combat boots and boot socks will be issued upon arrival; however, appointees may purchase their boots prior to entering the Academy. Appointees may do so though Cadet Issue during scheduled day tours to the Academy. These boots must meet the following specifications: sage green in color, 8 inches high, have a rubber sole, and a waterproof upper bootie (Gore-tex or similar). The boots must NOT have steel or safety
toes, or zippers. Descriptions and color photos can be found on the internet at www.bellevilleshoe.com (Belleville model number 650 or F650 for women's sizes.) This website is provided for reference only; there are many additional manufacturers and sources for these boots. All incoming cadets are required to have two (2) pairs of serviceable boots for wear during basic cadet training. If you wear an unusual size (i.e. extra narrow, smaller than a size 4 or larger than a size 14) or have questions concerning footwear, call Cadet Issue at 1-719-333-3017/2366 or 1-719-333-3218.
You are also encouraged to bring molded cleats with you to the Academy. Many intramural activities are played outdoors and the use of molded cleats will allow you to maintain your footing. Only molded cleats are a authorized. Do not bring screw-in, metal, or single toe cleats as they pose safety hazards to other participants.
Regards
John
 
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