The holy trinity and one of the most timeless maxims of military operations is “Shoot, Move and Communicate”. These three simple words encompass everything a leader needs to know in order to overcome an enemy force. Moving, and I mean moving by foot, means moving comfortably within your environment either alone or with a team.  If you as an individual can’t move quickly and proficiently from point A to point B you are a liability.

Give yourself the advantage with the Men’s Bates Lites USMC DuraShocks (Bates E50501). Bates has produced an absolutely superb boot suited for any situation. These boots are durable, reliable, rugged and provide an individual’s feet the proper protection and comfort necessary for any situation.

I received these boots less that two days after I ordered them. I had to return my initial order because the boots were a half size too large. I recommend you order a half size smaller than your dress shoe size. No worries, the customer service was superb and serveral days later I had in my possession a pair of Men’s Bates Lites USMC DuraShocks. I decided to test these boot in three different environments; urban every day wear, in field conditions, and while conducting fitness conditioning.

First let’s looks at the boot specifications:

• A lightweight boot featuring Bates DuraShocks® shock absorbing comfort technology
• Made with Wolverine Warrior Leather® and Nylon Upper
• Oil, Stain and Abrasion-Resistant
• Breathable Moisture Wicking Lining
• Ultra-durable direct attach construction
• Water and slip resistant rubber outsole
• Bates DuraShocks® Shock Absorbing Comfort Technology
• Bates DuraShocks® Energy Returning Outsole
• Bates’ 30-day Comfort Guarantee
• Proudly Manufactured in the USA

Four things stood out for me. First and foremost, Made in USA Complete with a 30 day guarantee which ensures a full refund within 30 days if you are not convinced that these are the most comfortable boots you’ve ever worn. Second, the Durashock Comfort Technology which features the patented, lightweight energy-returning outsoles feature built-in compression pads in the heel and forefoot that diffuse the impact of every step reducing shock to the feet and legs. Third, the Wolverine Warrior Leather which consists of breathable pig skin featuring Scotchgard by 3M protector for leather. Scotchgard provides oil and stain resistant technology that protects from dirt, chemicals, oil and water based stains. Slip Resistant. The rubber outsole maintains grip on uneven terrain.

Now let’s look at the environments I tested this boot in.

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Urban Everyday Wear

For this phase I wore the boots in a variety of settings; yard work, walking the dog, and on an assortment of long urban walks in various of weather conditions to include rain and snow. These boots were always comfortable, kept my feet dry, and I could feel both the Bates DuraShocks Shock Absorbing Comfort Technology working along with the Energy Returning Outsole which significanty reduced the shock my the feet and legs and made me feel like I was using much less energy to move from point A to B. I also noticed the toe box on these boots provided plenty of room and the Wolverine Warrior Leather performed as advertised shedding water and stains. Even after heavy yard work these boots cleaned up nicely.

Field Conditions

For the field phase I decided to wear the boots while moving through the woods with a rifle and 35lb rucksack along some trails, rolling hills, and over streams. I liked how these boots felt on my feet. They were light, roomy; there was no slippage or rubbing. These boots appeared to be designed for speed. I hit the trail hard but it didn’t feel like I was wearing boots. I was truly impressed with the cushioning. No need to loosen up laces or tighten anything. I did traverse several small creeks but my feet remained dry. The Wolverine Warrior Leather did its job and protected my feet from a variety of obstructions that I banged my feet on. By the end of the day the boot was dry and so were my feet. The boot never tightened around my feet or ankles but remained supple.

Fitness Conditioning       

For this phase I agreed to let my son in the Marine Corps wear these boots for his semi annual Combat Fitness Conditioning Test (CFT). The CFT is intended to keep Marines ready for the physical rigors of contemporary combat operations. Individual readiness is measured by requiring Marines in battle dress uniform to sprint a timed 880 yards, lift a 30-pound ammunition can overhead from shoulder height repeatedly for two minutes, and perform a maneuver-under-fire event, which is a timed 300-yard shuttle run in which Marines are paired up by size and perform a series of combat-related tasks. Since this event involved a lot of quick timed movements over a known distance I thought this would be a good way to gauge if the boots could make a difference in his performance. At the completion of the CFT my son said these are the most comfortable boots he’s ever worn – best time ever – it’s like running in slippers. Needless to say he now wants a pair of these boots for Christmas.

Summary

These boots are absolutely superb. They provide the support for your feet, excellent arch support, the feet are solidly anchored to the foot-bed, and the soles are super grippy, comfy, and very durable. You can use these to hike, or backpack in the spring, summer, or fall; and you can use these boots in a variety of high intensity tactical training. USMC DURASHOCKS® HOT WEATHER BOOT prices in at $219.95

• PRODUCT SCORES
  Functionality: 5/5
  Weight: 5/5
  Durability: 5/5
  Cost: 5/5
  Comfort: 5/5
• OVERALL: 25/25

PROS & CONS
Pros

Extremely functional

Comfortable from the start

Lightweight, agile and durable

Cons

Price – they are expensive but your feet will thank you.
Sizing – I recommend you order a half size smaller than your dress shoe size

Material Disclosure

I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer via Spotter Up so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based off my personal experience with the product.

*The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Spotter Up Magazine, the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.