Boot Lacing

Proper lacing of boots not only prevent blisters, but it prevents improper circulation in the feet. Since some laces may assume a seesaw action across the instep and produce a long blister across the instep, we recommend skipping the lace over the instep to prevent irritation, resulting in a more comfortable fit. If you are like most people, it is very hard to get a boot that fits properly without manipulating the design to accommodate your foot. Always carry an extra pair of laces in your rucksack because they will break at the most inopportune time. Remember, an improperly laced boot can cause injury and blisters that can affect your performance.

The Surgeon’s Knot is great to use with all sorts of lacing techniques because it does not slip easily. To tie the knot, cross the lace three times, then make a loop out of each remaining lace to form what looks like two bunny ears. Keep one of the loops stationary like a tree and then have the other loop go around the tree and then push that loop through the hole that was just made and pull tight.  This knot is best used as a “lock,” such as when you need one section of your laces tighter (or looser) than another; if you have wide feet, the lower laces can be left loose for more room. The Surgeon’s Knot can be applied to the eyelets near the bend of your ankle, and the remaining laces in the upper eyelets can be secured normally.

Boot Care

Desert Tan Boots

These boots are made of suede and cordura nylon, which are two very different portions of materials, and both must be maintained in order to perform to standards and not fail you. When caring for the nylon fabric, a soft brush with warm water can be used, whereas the suede portion only requires a soft bristle brush to remove the dirt; however, neither area of this boot should ever have polish applied. The boots should be air dried and NEVER exposed to direct intense heat (e.g. fire) because this can cause damage to the boots.