Our ADF Approved Boots Reviewer
In Defence, we have limited options and making sure we are not forking out money every 12 months is the goal. Hopefully you will benefit from the recommendations of our seasoned active military personel.
Our author is a Special Forces operator with over ten years of experience in Defence, so he has gone through a few pairs (including one that didn’t survive selection). We asked him to share his personal opinion and to give insight into what other SF operators thoughts are on the ADF approved boots.
I’ve been in the military for around 12 years, and I can say with confidence that there are only a few models of ADF approved boots that I’ve come across within the units. You’ve got the issued Danners, the trusty Garmont T8s, and those slick Salomons. And every once in a while, you might spot the unicorn of ADF approved boots – the old school Terras.
If you’re wondering which ADF boots to go for, these models are a good starting point. Speaking of options, we’ve gone through and checked out all the Army-approved boots… well, at least the ones we could track down.
This article gives you our thoughts on the models and brands of ADF approved boots. We are focusing on the approved Army boots at the moment but stay tuned for a review for the RAAF and RAN.
ADF Approved Army Boots
The list below is current as of the time of writing this article, but be aware that the list may change from time to time. Several of the boots on the ADF approved list have been discontinued or are impossible to find new in Australia.
List of ADF Approved Combat Boots
The Australian Defence Force has specific requirements for the combat boots that are worn by its personnel. The 13 models of combat boots endorsed by the Chief of Army are:
- Salomon XA Forces Mid
- GARMONT T8 Multi Terrain
- DANNER Arcadia Desert
- ALTAMA 4158 3LC Hot Weather
- BELLEVILLE M590 Hot Weather
- MEINDL Desert Fox Safari
- BELLEVILLE M591 Hot Weather
- BATES 30501 Durashock Desert
- CROSSFIRE Peacekeeper Plus
- LOWA Urban Desert
- ALTAMA 4156
- Oakley S.I. Assault Boot TM (Black Combat Boots)
- TERA Heat Resistant Black Boot (Black Combat Boots)
All other models of boots are unauthorized, it’s as simple as that. One restriction to consider is that the Salomon XA Forces Mid cannot be worn in barracks (we still love the Salomon XA Forces Mid). There are also restrictions on colours, as any one of you would know.
ADF Approved Boots Reviews
The list of army-approved boots is public knowledge, but it’s hard to find truthful reviews and comparisons. Whether you’re a new recruit or a seasoned veteran, you’ll want to avoid getting gripped on the parade ground (been there), so you need to make sure you buy and wear what’s approved in the Army dress manual.
Most Popular ADF Approved Boots
Salomon XA Force mid
Pros
- ADF approved boot (Australia)
- AR670-1 compliant (US)
- Vibram sole
- Ortholite® Ultra insole
- Good ankle support
Cons
- Standard model not waterproof (upgraded GTX model is)
- Can’t wear in barracks
The Salomon XA Forces Mid is a reliable option for ADF personnel. Only the GTX model is water-resistant (GTX stands for Goretex) and it is well worth paying extra for it.
With its lightweight yet durable construction, it offers exceptional performance in demanding environments. The boot’s high-traction outsole ensures a firm grip, while the mid-cut design provides crucial ankle. While it has a slightly higher price point tat the GT8, the ADF approved Salomon XA Forces Mid is a solid investment for those seeking quality and performance.
Garmont T8 Multi Terrain
Pros
- ADF approved boot (Australia)
- AR670-1 compliant (US)
- Vibram sole
- Ortholite® Ultra insole
- Good ankle support
Cons
- Not waterproof
The GARMONT T8 Multi Terrain boot is a versatile option suitable for a wide range of terrains and environments. It is one of our three favourite ADF approved boot.
With its exceptional ankle support and stability features, it provides the necessary protection during demanding operations. The durable construction ensures longevity, and both the outer and inner soles are top quality, making it a reliable choice for ADF personnel. Read our full Garmont T8 review.
Other ADF Approved Boots (Less Commonly Seen in the Units)
DANNER Arcadia Desert
Pros
- ADF approved boot (Australia)
- Good grip Vibram outer sole
- Comfortable padding
- Good ankle support (boot is 8″ high)
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Some find it too high (personal preference)
The DANNER Arcadia Desert boot is not waterproof, so it doesn’t excel in wet environments. Its strength are breathability and moisture management, which can be convenient on a dry hot summer day. Its Vibram outsole offers excellent grip, and its 8″ height provides good ankle stability.
BELLEVILLE M590 Hot Weather
The BELLEVILLE M590 Hot Weather boot is engineered to excel in hot and humid environments. Its superior breathability and moisture management properties ensure optimal comfort, allowing your feet to stay cool and dry even in the harshest conditions.
The boot’s shock-absorbing technology provides additional cushioning for those long hours on duty. While the BELLEVILLE M590 may require a break-in period, the overall performance and durability make it a worthy choice for ADF personnel operating in hot climates.
MEINDL Desert Fox Safari
The MEINDL Desert Fox Safari boot is renowned for its outstanding durability, ensuring longevity even in the most challenging conditions. Its supportive and comfortable fit keeps your feet protected during long hours of wear. Designed specifically for desert environments, it provides reliable performance and traction.
ALTAMA 4158 3LC Hot Weather
Designed to withstand hot weather conditions, the ALTAMA 4158 3LC Hot Weather boot is an excellent choice for ADF personnel serving in tropical or desert environments. Its advanced materials and construction ensure maximum breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities, keeping your feet dry and comfortable even in challenging climates. This boot is not waterproof.
Oakley S.I. Assault Boot TM (Black Combat Boots)
The Oakley S.I. Assault Boot TM is a black Australian army combat boot. Its lightweight construction allows for enhanced agility during operations. The slip-resistant outsole ensures safety and stability in various conditions.
Approved Army Boots Australia We Couldn’t Track Down (Potentially Discontinued Models)
TERA Heat Resistant Black Boot (Black Combat Boots)
The TERA Heat Resistant Black Boot is specifically designed to withstand extreme heat conditions. It’s packed with heat-resistant properties and has a slip-resistant outsole.
BELLEVILLE M591 Hot Weather
The BELLEVILLE M591 Hot Weather boot is an adf-approved boot, but it’s almost impossible to find a pair. It might be discontinued so if you’re after a Belleville adf approved boot, opt for the M590 Hot Weather model reviewed.
ALTAMA 4156
The ALTAMA 4156 is probably discontinued, as it is seems impossible to find in Australia. If you’re sold on the ALTAMA brand, your only ADF approved boot option is the ALTAMA 4158 3LC Hot Weather reviewed earlier in this article.
BATES 30501 Durashock
The BATES 30501 Durashock Desert boot is also hard to find. We think it may be discontinued since the ADF-approved boots list was last updated.
LOWA Urban Desert
Good luck finding a brand new pair of LOWA Urban Desert boots in Australia. We couldn’t, and for that reason assume that it is is probably discontinued too.
Crossfire Peacekeeper Plus
The CROSSFIRE Peacekeeper Plus boot is probably discontinued, as we can’t find it on any of our go-to defence gear websites.
What Boots do ADF use
ADF have to use approved boots, with the most commonly purchased approved boots being: the Salomon XA Forces Mid, the GARMONT T8 Multi Terrain, the issued DANNER (which are not the Danner Arcadia Desert pictured above). On occasions, you’ll also see ADF members wear a pair of the BELLEVILLE M590 Hot Weather, the MEINDL Desert Fox Safari and the ALTAMA 4158 3LC Hot Weather.
Final Words: Australian Army Boots Approved
When it comes to footwear for ADF personnel, selecting the right approved boot is crucial for your own comfort. Each ADF approved boot mentioned in this article offers its own set of advantages and considerations. Remember to consider factors such as comfort, durability, traction, and specific requirements for your operational conditions. And if you find it challenging to find specific models from the dress manual online or in physical shops throughout the country, rest assured that you’re not alone (some of them have been discontinued).
