What Are Military Boots Made Of?

The materials and production methods used to make military boots has a huge influence on the following properties:

  • Comfort
  • Durability
  • Protection
  • Thermal insulation
  • Waterproofing 
  • Versatility

So the big question is, what are military boots made of? Durable and reliable military boots will be made from high quality leather. LOWA use different types of leather to make their military boots, depending on the requirements for each type of boot. The materials are carefully selected to support their construction methods that have been perfected for nearly a century. The main types of materials used are:


Full Grain Leather


‘Full grain’ refers to the most durable part of the animal hide, hence why it is a great choice for making military boots. The grain of the leather is left intact which means it develops a patina as it ages, resulting in its durability increasing over the years. It is tough and does not wear out easily, whilst achieving a naturally aesthetic finish. LOWA boots made from predominantly full grain leather include the LOWA Mountain Boot and Combat Boot, as well as the women’s Renegade II.



Cordura


LOWA boots are made using a combination of suede and Cordura. Cordura is a durable fabric that’s usually made from a synthetic material such as nylon. The term Cordura has become synonymous with durability, hence why it’s now commonly used for military purposes. Alongside its toughness, the two main qualities of this fabric are its water-resistance and stretchability, which are perfectly suited to creating a practical yet comfortable military boot. Many LOWA designs incorporate Cordura. Popular examples of this include the Z8N which uses a combination of Cordura and Nubuck, and the Zephyr which is made using a combination of Cordura and suede. 



Nubuck


We mentioned that boots like the LOWA Z8N are made using a combination of Cordura and Nubuck. When asking the question ‘what are military boots made of’, Nubuck may not be the first material that comes to mind, however this type of leather can be incredibly useful for creating high performance military boots. Nubuck is top grain leather that has been sanded down or buffed to give it a slightly napped finish on the surface.  As Nubuck is made from top grain leather it is highly durable, whilst providing a good level of breathability. It also has a smart appearance and requires little maintenance. 



Suede


Another material that you may not expect to hear when discussing ‘what military boots are made of’ is suede.Suede is a split leather that’s made by separating the underside of the animal skin from the top. Although lightweight, suede is incredibly long lasting, which is why it is an excellent choice for making military boots that are protective yet comfortable, and that look good in appearance. Suede is not naturally very water-resistant, however it can be hydrophobized and is very receptive to waterproofing treatments. Suede is pliable, offering flexibility for wearers and enabling innovations in design. The LOWA Z8S C in Coyote Op features breathable suede uppers, with ventilation zones to further enhance breathability. Other LOWA military boots which utilise the benefits of suede include the Zephyr that use a combination of suede and Cordura. 



Gore-Tex®


When answering the question ‘what are military boots made of’, it’s not just leather that it’s important to mention. Other materials play a key role in providing certain qualities. One of these is the Gore-Tex® membrane used in the majority of LOWA boots. This innovative technology prevents water from getting into the boot, whilst enabling moisture to escape so that feet can breathe to keep wearers feeling comfortable. This material is crucial for ensuring military boots are waterproof and reliable in all weather conditions, whatever the environment. 



What About The Rest Of The Boot?


The careful selection of materials used to make the uppers of LOWA boots is supported by the use of specialist sole units. All rubber sole units are designed with a degree of slip resistance, comfort, durability and shock absorption in mind. Many LOWA boots are made using cushioned PU midsoles and exclusive Monowrap® Frame Technology to enhance the sole’s comfort levels and shock absorption properties. The outsoles feature their own specialist tread designs to ensure stability and grip on uneven terrain. An important hallmark of LOWA boots are the heel and toe bumper and the rubber rand that runs around the edges of the boot between the outsole and the upper to protect the edges, heel and toe cap of the leather from damage. 

To hear more about how LOWA military boots are made, or for more information on finding the best boot for you, please don’t hesitate to give us a call on +44 (0)1752 344355 or email [email protected]