You may have heard of the military word or slang for tabbing, an obscure term short for “tactical advance to battle” If you have been in the military, you will have experienced it for yourself. We think the term ‘tabbing’ comes from WWII when British Airborne troops left the drop zone, formed into sub-units and advanced in full kit towards their objective to make contact with the enemy.
During the 1982 Falklands War, Royal Marines Commandos and the Parachute Regiment famously "yomped" and ‘’tabbed’’ 90 km across East Falkland in just three days, in full kit and carrying 36 kg packs after disembarking at San Carlos Water. In the modern military, tabbing is more suited to honing fitness and to a large degree it has lost the tactical element, but you need serious endurance and a good level of fitness but good choice of footwear will make a huge difference.
For tabbing, boots need to deliver four things consistently: comfort over long distances, ankle support, weather protection, and durability under load. These principles are exactly what LOWA military boots are built around, which is why they have such a strong reputation among military personnel, police units, and outdoor professionals. Let’s take an in-depth look at LOWA military boots and what makes them some of the best military boots for tabbing.
What Makes a Good Tabbing Boot?
Tabbing puts serious stress on your feet, ankles, knees, and lower back, and a poor-quality boot quickly results in you developing blisters, hotspots, fatigue and possible injury. That’s why a good tabbing boot has got to provide you with the following:
- Strong ankle support for uneven terrain.
- Cushioning that reduces fatigue during long marches.
- Breathability to minimise overheating and moisture build-up.
- Waterproof protection for wet conditions.
- Reliable grip across mud, trails, roads, and loose terrain.
- Durable materials that withstand heavy use.
LOWA military boots are designed from the ground up to incorporate all of these traits. Many LOWA models use dual-density midsoles and other advanced sole systems that improve long-distance comfort and stability.
Best Military Boots for Tabbing From LOWA
LOWA Combat MK2 GTX®
For tabbing and other intense load-bearing marches, the Combat Boot MK2 GTX is arguably one of the strongest LOWA military boots options you can go for.
Key advantages include:
- Dual-density PU midsole for long-distance comfort.
- PORON ankle protection.
- Vibram Vanguard outsole for grip.
- GORE-TEX waterproof lining.
- Two-zone lacing system for a customised fit.
- Excellent support under heavier loads.
This boot is specifically designed for military operations, marches, and demanding terrain, making it ideal for regular tabbing sessions.
LOWA Breacher GORE-TEX® MID Tactical Boots
The LOWA Breacher GTX® MID offers a slightly lighter and more flexible alternative to the Combat Boot MK2 while still providing very strong support and durability.
Benefits include:
- Lightweight feel for reduced fatigue.
- LOWA Vibram® Vanguard l sole for grip and stability.
- Full-grain leather construction.
- Waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining.
- Comfortable for prolonged wear.
It’s a strong choice for moderate-load tabs with mixed terrain, and users who prefer an agile tactical boot that works very well in a wide variety of different situations.
LOWA Zephyr MK2 GORE-TEX® MID TF Boots
The LOWA Zephyr MK2 GORE-TEX® MID TF Boots are worth considering as another option.
These boots are really well-suited for:
- Everyday tactical wear.
- Lighter tabbing sessions.
- Mixed operational and work environments.
- A combination of agility, lightness and stability
Their comfort-focused design and supportive construction make them a very practical all-around option among the LOWA military boots range.
LOWA military boots are a very strong choice for tabbing, and the range we carry at Task Force Distribution is more than up to the task. If you have any questions about our boots, feel free to get in touch with the team for expert help and advice.
