iPads/tips for West Point

[prospective2019]

- Is a personal IPad a good idea? Does the Academy’s WiFi work with it?
- Are cadets instructed to bring their own backpacks? If so, what models do you guys recommend? 5.11 tactical? If not, what model is issued out to the Cadets?
- What type of multi tool would you guys recommend? Any essential tools for Beast/everyday life?
- What type of boots should I purchase and break in? How are the approved Nike boots?
- Any special tips a prospective candidate should know to put themselves ahead?

- Definitely recommend an iPad. I use mine for everything and I've stopped using binders and notebooks for most things. Most work is digital right now because of the virus and I expect it to be sustained for awhile. Get one with capabilities for an Apple Pencil, I don't know what I'd do without it.
- The new Plebes got issued extremely nice, expensive backpacks. That one is fine.
- Leatherman Mutt. You don't really need it until Cadet Field Training, but it is a good tool to have on hand and you'll make friends easily.
- Belleville AMRAP or Garmont NFS, whichever fits your feet better. I love the AMRAPs; they are light and the most comfortable and supportive boot I've worn. Don't get Nike boots.
- Network with your Regional Commander. Demonstrate interest. This is huge.

I am a yearling who has completed CBT and CFT.

 

[barrettf50cal]

I do not believe Nike has been an approved boot on the boot memo at least in the last couple of years. Maybe try to get the boot memo from the class of 2024. My cadet tried both approved boots and went with the one she liked best. She did get a pair of the Nike later for her rucks on the sandhurst team but ended up going back to her beast boots because the nike did not have much ankle support.
Class of 2022 did not get an issued ipad but were given a list of approved ipads. She had us bring that to Aday, she prefers taking notes on the ipad rather than taking notes on her computer. The ipads do work on the academy's wifi.
If you want to bring your own backpack that is allowed, but must be all black and you have to cover any logos. Some used this to bring there stuff in on Rday while others waited to buy one later if they didnt like the issued ones. My cadet brought a duffle that converts to a backpack and has used it whenever taking a pass on the weekends. A lot of use before this year...covid. She used the issued backpack for a year before replacing it.
She took a cheap multitool to beast. They work fine and you can get a better quality leatherman later on when less likely to lose. I would also recommend looking for a headlamp with a red light option. If the red light has its own button even better.
Be prepared for a lot of rucking, and also push ups and pull ups. The first days of beast you will be in your low quarters shoes, get those well ahead and break them in! Be prepared to fail...you will. You might not be used to failing at anything but beast is going to change that.
Good luck, I dont think they will start overnights until the spring at the earliest.

I believe Nike now has a boot that fits with some military regulation manual.

 

[Casey]

I believe Nike now has a boot that fits with some military regulation manual.

Nike has had approved boots for a while for Army uniform use. They just weren’t always approved by the USMA boot memo which can be more stringent for what New Cadets can wear.

 

[GMA]

Good afternoon! I am a cadet candidate for the USMA Class of 2025’ and have been looking over some of the things that are on the recommended packing list for the USMA, and wanted some suggestions. West Point did request that I take an overnight visit sometime in either January or February, and I’d like to have some of these items figured out by then so I can budget/ make the purchases should I get an appointment (As well as ask more informed questions when I’m on campus).

- Is a personal IPad a good idea? Does the Academy’s WiFi work with it?
- Are cadets instructed to bring their own backpacks? If so, what models do you guys recommend? 5.11 tactical? If not, what model is issued out to the Cadets?
- What type of multi tool would you guys recommend? Any essential tools for Beast/everyday life?
- What type of boots should I purchase and break in? How are the approved Nike boots?
- Any special tips a prospective candidate should know to put themselves ahead?

Thank you for all your time!

Congratulations - where did you find the recommended packing list for USMA for class of 2025? I've been capturing suggested items from prior cadets but haven't yet seen an official packing list.

 

[MitchWalk]

Congratulations - where did you find the recommended packing list for USMA for class of 2025? I've been capturing suggested items from prior cadets but haven't yet seen an official packing list.

I haven’t gotten it yet. I just based it off of previous packing lists