The design and function of military footwear: a review following experiences in the South Atlantic∗

Abstract

It is clear from experience in the Falklands that many of the longstanding problems associated with military footwear design remain unsolved. This review examines the aspects of design in relation to function and elucidates the many conflicting requirements of ideal boot design. Mobility, protection, insulation, waterproofing, vapour permeability, durability, weight, fit and supply, for instance, make contrasting demands upon the design of boots. Furthermore, failure to solve those conflicts, it is suggested, resulted in many non-freezing cold injuries in the South Atlantic and frequently leads to other injuries, including frostbite, when present boot designs are tested in action.

An attempt is made to reconcile these and other criteria with the suggestion of a modular infantry ‘footwear package’ consisting of an inner and a number of different middle and outer boots.

Keywords:

• Athletic injuries
• Clothing
• Cold
• Foot diseases
• Frostbite
• Trench foot

Notes

∗The views expressed in this article are the author's own, and must not be taken as representing those of the Ministry of Defence or any agency thereof.