The Bataan Death March: 26.2 miles over incredibly difficult terrain. Deep sand. Loose rocks. Elevation changes. Heat. Wind gusts. Sandstorms. Even if you choose to march the shorter 14.2 mile route, you’ll still encounter a rough and varied landscape and potentially unfriendly weather.
As soldiers start prepping for next month’s event, they inevitably ask us, “What are the best boots for the Bataan Death March?” Here’s our list of the top six best boots for the march, along with why we think they belong on your feet.
Top 6 Best Boots for Bataan
We consider these the best boots for the Bataan march because of their traction over desert terrain, their lightweight materials, and their ability to keep feet cool and dry. Everyone has their favorites, but if you’re considering a new pair of boots, take a look at one of these. We bolded the AR670-1 and AFI 36-2903 compliant offerings.
A word of advice: We don’t recommend breaking in your new boots during the march. Order them ahead and wear them every day to get your feet and legs used to them. Even the boots with fast break-in periods still might take some getting used to.
Nike SFB Gen 2
The SFB GEN 2 Boots feature lace lock technology that helps keep your forefoot down and prevent blisters. The angled flex grooves are anatomically placed to more perfectly match the natural flex of the foot.
Buy the Nike SFB Gen 2
Garmont T8 NFS
An EVA midsole provides baseline cushioning throughout while an additional EVA insole which is 2mm thick allows for extra cushioning and great comfort. Underneath, a PU breathable footbed forces sweat out for dry boots at all times.
Garmont T8 Bifida
Looking for fast break-in? Try the T8. It has Vibram’s “Bifida” sole, perfect for hiking desert and mountainous terrain, and the ball bearings in the lacing system add flexibility and movement to every step.
Oakley Light Assault 2
An EVA midsole and outsole move naturally with your foot while providing plush shock absorption, and a lightweight Cordura® and breathable synthetic upper offers lasting, ventilated comfort.
Buy the Oakley SI Light Assault 2
Danner Tanicus
Containing an added layer of cushioning in the midsole and a dampening heel cup, this coyote combat boot is all about comfort. The polyurethane footbed inside this boot ensures that the construction and comfort will also hold up without breaking down over time.
Danner Tachyon
When your performance depends largely on your footwear, you can count on the Danner Tachyon Coyote Boot to deliver. Each pair is made with additional space inside the toebox to allow for the most natural movement when changing directions laterally or carrying heavy loads in physically taxing situations.
Of course, you can’t wear regular old athletic socks with desert boots. They’re too thick, too short, hold moisture, and don’t offer the cushioning you need. Grab yourself a pair of tactical socks for the march.
Do you have a favorite boot you wore on a previous Bataan Death March? Tell our readers about it below!
