What to Bring to Beast?

I disagree about the compression shorts. On the first phone call home, my cadet asked me to mail some ASAP.
 
Compression shorts are not authorized for New Cadets in PT uniform, but I would recommend keeping them hidden and definitely wearing them during field training and during road marches.

Also, when it comes to boot socks, you get what you pay for. Same with any of the undergarments USMA issues. When I was a New Cadet, I brought all of my own stuff (my dad was an Officer in the Army and knew the ropes of training) so I was squared away when it came to being comfortable for training. When they issue you the cheap stuff, fold it according to the regulations, place a small roll of masking tape underneath it, and stick it in your drawer. When it comes time for inspection, the only thing you'll have to do is open your drawers and sweep out a little dust with a paper towel:thumb:

CS
'07 Grad
 
Are the boots and low quarters for USMA the same for all three academies, or does everyone do something a little different?
they are different. only get what your academy recommends otherwise you will have wasted your money.

As far as compression shorts and boot socks. You can bring both but whether or not you are allowed to wear them may depend on your cadre.
My daughter was allowed to run in compression shorts as the shorts she was issued were too big. they ran out of her size.
 
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Several pairs of compression shorts or bike shorts without the crotch padding.

"Second Skin" or some synthetic skin patch for blisters.

duct tape, to be used for almost 100% coverage of feet to prevent blisters (we learned this from Army Ranger training prep site)

"Body Glide" or "Runners Lube" for thighs and underarms etc where ever possible chafing may occur.

Small LED light headlamp with a red plastic filter so it produces only red light. Make sure it is a headlamp which leaves your hands free.

"Gold Bond Medicated Powder"

First and second priority are your feet - third is chafing.

Be in shape. If you are not now already running 3 miles a day you are nuts. Also start progressive rucksack hikes no matter how strange you feel - do a 15 mile hike in both the weekends before R-Day. They are saying now that you should not purchase boots and black shoes prior. I would do all you can to figure out what brand the army is using and try and buy a share of each. Start wearing your black shoes now all the time. Same with the boots.

Try to find some of the "knowledge" online. It is said it changes every year but that doesnt seem to be the case. Try to get some of it down by heart as it will save you some grief.

Feet feet feet feet feet

Some I am going to agree with some not.

Dont duct tape your feet. They probably won't let you or give you time for it. There will be foot checks. On a ruck march the cadre are required to do foot inspections.

I have only heard that boots are not authorized. I thought the low quarters were still authorized. If they are get them and wear them. break in your feet to a good sturdy oxford in any case.

The new boots truly do not have to be bought ahead of time. There is no breaking in time. They can be difficult to fit properly and if they are not fit correctly you will have foot problems.
Do NOT get blisters before R-day. My daughter did and they didn't heal. Second week they got infected. Then she got cellulitus and her foot blew up like a balloon.

Your shoes and boots will be fitted by podiatry students and if you show up with the wrong size you will be "issued" new ones (issued= buy).

I would not recommend 15 mile rucks right before R-day. Definitely show up in shape and go hiking if you want but be careful. If you get hurt before R-day your summer could be over before you start.

I don't recommend blister bandaids. the medics will have these and if you have them then you won't report your blisters. Do NOT be afraid to tell anyone you have blisters. Just don't whine about them - unless you are oozing pus or you foot is too swollen for the boot. even then.

Gold Bond powder - definitely. Baby wipes definitely (for in the field).

Some of this stuff you can buy at the C-store but they do tend to run out. Last year they ran out of baby wipes and my daughter's cadre told her platoon to ask mom or dad to send them. (it was the only time I was authorized to send anything)
 
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