Combat boots have become commonplace among military organizations around the world. The first soldiers to be issued to them were the foot soldiers of the Assyrians, they wore spiked boots called caligae.

Soldiers in the English civil war were issued 3 sets of this special footwear and changed them after each march to ensure each one was worn uniformly. Instead of laces these had buckles which were used by most armies during that time period.

The Napoleonic Wars saw the first pair of lace-up combat boots issued to replace the older buckled shoes. The first issued by the Americans were lace-up ankle boots. However, these had no left or right shoe. Instead, they were meant to mold around the soldier’s feet. These boots were uncomfortable and caused a lot of blisters.

The next official set of American boots came during World War II. They were part of the M-1943 uniform together. With this problem, the Americans reverted to the double buckle which they would maintain until 1948. During the Vietnam War, the US reverted to using laces made specifically for jungle warfare.

Today’s American combat boots are available in two different styles. The first is a 2.5lb warm weather boot and the second is a 2lb warm weather boot. Current American combat boot manufacturers include Altama, Bates, Belleville Shoe, McRae, Rocky, Warson, Converse, and Wellco. All branches of the military wear a tan finish, except the Air Force, which uses a foliage green chamois.

In recent history, combat boots have found a new genre of people looking to purchase them outside of the military. With the invasion of the gothic, punk and industrial, boys have become a much more mainstream accessory. They have become a fashion statement for a large section of the young American population.

Many people who choose combat boots for fashion want the real thing that creates an authentic, vintage look and feel. As a result, you can buy them at virtually any military surplus store or online at a number of different retailers.

Beyond fashion, some people also wear them simply because they are very strong and durable. They can be used for long periods of time in any condition, making them ideal for many industries, even outside of the military.