Berts are special lace-up shoes that are an integral attribute of military equipment. The main difference between such models and boots is that the leg is tightly fixed due to lacing, but the ankle remains mobile. Thanks to this, the risks of pulling your leg during exercise are minimal.
Usually berets are used in the army. However, today they are quite popular in everyday life. They will be needed by people who love extreme sports, fishermen and tourists. Also, fans of active sports where you need to move in field conditions (paintball, hunting) will also like them.
How to choose ankle boots
All shoes with high tops are called ankle boots. They are popular in everyday and military life. But how to choose a good model and not fall for a low-quality manufacturer? To do this, you need to know several features that distinguish high-quality ankle boots.
Upper material
Most often, such shoes are made of chrome leather. It is more durable, elastic and moisture resistant.In addition, in terms of price/quality ratio, it is in second place after genuine leather. Boots made of chrome leather are cheaper, but the quality of socks is not inferior to natural models.
Sole
There are certain requirements for the sole. The service life of shoes and comfort when walking/running depend on them. You need to choose boots taking into account:
- Product material. A softer, thinner sole made of natural materials will be comfortable in the warm season. For winter, it is better to choose thermoplastic elastomer, it does not allow cold to pass through and retains heat well;
- Tread. The quality of the boots’ adhesion to the surface of the earth and the amount of accumulated dirt depend on the relief;
- Weight. Basically, 70% of the weight of a product depends on its sole. The boots themselves are heavy. Therefore, here you need to focus on personal preferences and why you are buying shoes;
- Geometry. The main feature of ankle boots is that they do not have a flat sole. The stability of the shoe and the position of the ankle depend on the geometry;
- Impregnation and vulcanization. Shoes worn when walking around explosive substances must be well protected and not flammable.
On a note! Pay attention to the heel of the shoe. A molded heel will last longer in wear, although it makes the product a little heavier.
Lining
The type of lining in shoes depends on the season. Summer models have a thin lightweight lining. Most often it is a porous polyester mesh. This lining absorbs excess foot vapor and reduces friction. The foot does not overheat in shoes. Which is important for long-term wear.
In winter models, the lining comes with insulation so that the feet do not freeze in cold weather. In this case, the lining is inserted from natural or artificial fur.
How to choose winter ones
The choice of winter boots must be approached responsibly.After all, the choice determines whether your feet will be warm in cold weather. In addition, water resistance plays an important role. Today, in addition to fur, ankle boots may contain synthetic holofiber. It warms the foot perfectly, is more durable and does not wear out. But, the cost of such boots will be more expensive than conventional models with fur.
Select by destination
To make it comfortable to wear shoes, you need to choose them for their intended purpose. To do this, you need to determine a list of useful properties that should be present in the shoes.
Army
Army combat boots must have the following properties:
- Waterproof;
- Inflated model;
- Good vulcanization;
- High-quality insulation;
- Genuine Leather;
- Stable sole.
When serving, a military man has to endure many difficulties in different conditions. Therefore, shoes should be of high quality and comfortable.
Everyday
If shoes are bought for everyday life. For example, for fishing or playing, then it is better to pay attention to the following criteria:
- Waterproof;
- Low model;
- Availability of insulation (only needed if you plan to wear them in winter);
- Seasonality;
- Light in weight.
Army and civilian combat boots have different purposes. Therefore, when choosing shoes, you need to take into account the above criteria.
General tips for choosing
If you decide to buy ankle boots, then when choosing a model, pay attention to the following nuances:
- Choose from genuine leather, suede or nubuck. No leatherette;
- In summer models, the presence of a lining is optional. But, if the model does have it, then it is desirable that it be membrane fabric;
- There must be double lacing;
- Insulation can be chosen from both artificial and natural materials;
- Pay attention to the sole.If you have to go through a difficult, long route, then choose a stiffer sole.
Choosing ankle boots is not so easy. How the shoes will be worn depends on the right choice. After all, in extreme conditions or during long journeys, the main thing is comfort in the legs. Therefore, take into account all the nuances and give preference only to high-quality samples.