The refreshed and renewed OTB JungleLites have several features that were originally designed by OTB. The breathable, high-abrasion textile panels allow air to circulate throughout the boot to facilitate cooler and drier feet, and the lower mesh drainage ports to let water drain out with each step while rucking.
Some of the best features of the JungleLite Include rust-proof lace hardware, 550 paracord bootlaces, and full length molded EVA footbeds to emulate an athletic shoe feel and comfort to assist in overall foot health. The lug pattern was developed by the research and development team to shed mud and prevent clogging in muddy conditions.
The coyote version of this boot meets regulations for wear with OCP uniforms for both Army and Air Force, and Multicam uniforms for Army. There is also a comp toe sage version and a soft toe, and a black smooth leather version in 6” and 8” heights.
About OTB Boots
OTB Boots started when the founder was asked to designed a boot for the U.S. Navy Seals to be used inside and around water. This resulted in the company Over The Beach, or OTB, being formed. The company’s main focus is to create and deliver boots fully capable of surviving in the field in highly specific scenarios.
JungleLite Materials and Construction
The overall appearance of the boot is well designed. Being used only Marine Corps approved boots, this boot was a welcome new look to be used for outdoor functions and traveling for work.
The durability and quality of the JungleLites was apparent right from the beginning. I wore this boot during the entire duration of Hurricane Florence on the VA/NC border, and was very pleased. The use of rust-proof lace hardware and drainage ports was welcome in the wet weather, and the boot was easy to dry at the end of the day.
The fit was a little snug when first putting the boots on, but the comfort and durability through the long days was a huge plus. If you’ll be wearing these boots with thicker socks, or if your footwear tends to run a little tight, I’d suggest going up a half size from your usual.
A Look at the Features
- The drainage holes built into the boots worked extremely well. Although not ideal for walking through standing water, there are times when you have no choice. They drain quickly and help to prevent the “sloshing” feeling of waterlogged boots.
- The design of the lug pattern worked very well in the muddy, wet conditions. There was very little time spent kicking off extra mud, and not being weighed down was a plus.
- I am a huge fan of the fast roping guards on the outsole, as I have destroyed numerous boots doing so. Although I was not able to test them out, they’re a welcome sight.
How Did They Perform?
While responding in these boots, the initial comfort and feeling of stability was ideal. With the unfortunate situation of unavoidable water, these boots performed at a much-needed high level of traction, drainage, and protection. When compared to other boots worn by military members, the “sneaker” feel of them was welcomed, and the function of the boots allowed for fewer breaks for readjustment and lacing.
The traction of the boots was more than adequate, and they gave me zero issues during Hurricane Florence. Keep in mind that the traction I experienced was mainly in mud and water, not rucking up steep terrain or walking over rocks. Although the boots probably perform just as well in dry conditions, the main goal for me was to see how they operated under water stress.
The initial fit of the boot for me was snug, as all most of my boots at first. Once dried and cleaned for the next day, they were a little stiff, as all boots would be after a day submerged in floodwaters. The main aspect that was important to me was that the comfort of the boot was still there, despite the slight stiffness. Any boot you cover in mud and let dry is going to be stiff. The standard issued boots I wear every day feel like totally different boots after they’re saturated and dried (and not in a good way), but the OTB’s still maintained their comfort and walking ability.
There was no break in period for me. The “squared off” feel I normally get from a new boot was not there. Once they were on, I was ready to go. And when carrying loads, mostly walking on blacktop, the support I felt in my ankles was great.
Who Should Buy the OTB JungleLite?
The target audience for this particular boot is those in need of a boot for specific scenarios that include military and first responders. It would also be suitable for anyone hiking or traversing terrain where wet conditions are likely.
Value for the Money
With an MSRP of $169.99, I feel as though the value for this boot is ideal, as it performed better than a new issued boot that retails for $260.00.
Star Rating:
Review Synopsis: The OTB JungleLite boot demonstrated excellent performance during Hurricane Florence by maintaining its comfort, draining water quickly, and shedding mud due to the design of the lug pattern.
Disclaimer: The content in this article is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of US Patriot Tactical.
