Ultralight Military Boots That Sacrifice Some Support
The Garmont T8 NFS 670 promises military-spec performance at barely over a pound per boot. For ruckers who prioritize speed and agility over maximum ankle support, these AR670-1 compliant boots deliver impressive weight savings without completely abandoning durability.
Solid lightweight option for fast-paced rucking and military use. The 505-gram half-pair weight is exceptional, though some ruckers may want more substantial ankle support for heavy loads.
Best for: Fast-paced rucking and military training with lighter loads
Check Price — $185.00Specifications
| Price | $185.00 |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs |
| Dimensions | 5.1H x 13.4W x 13.4L in |
| Material | Polyester, Leather, Suede |
Durability
The Garmont outsole design borrows from athletic cleats, which means aggressive traction but questions about long-term wear patterns. The suede leather upper resists abrasion better than you'd expect from such a light boot, though time will tell how the material holds up under constant rucking stress.
Polyester reinforcements in high-wear zones add structure without weight penalties. The construction quality reflects Garmont's Italian bootmaking heritage, with consistent stitching and solid bonding between sole and upper. These won't outlast traditional full-leather combat boots, but they should handle regular training cycles without falling apart.
Comfort
At just over a pound per boot, the T8 NFS 670 feels more like a trail runner than traditional military footwear. This translates to less fatigue on long rucks, though the tradeoff is reduced structure around the ankle. Break-in time is minimal compared to heavier combat boots.
The wide sizing option accommodates broader feet without pressure points, a critical feature during multi-hour rucks. Breathability is decent for a military boot, though the suede upper retains more heat than mesh alternatives. Expect your feet to stay cooler than in full-leather boots but warmer than dedicated running shoes.
Features
AR670-1 compliance makes these suitable for military wear, while the athletic cleat-inspired sole pattern delivers legitimate grip on varied terrain. The tread design sheds mud effectively and bites into loose surfaces better than traditional lug patterns.
The lightweight construction comes from strategic material choices rather than cutting corners. Suede leather provides durability where it matters, while polyester panels reduce weight in less critical areas. The result is a boot that feels nimble without feeling fragile. No waterproof membrane means faster drying times but wet feet in rain.
Value
At $185, the Garmont T8 NFS 670 sits in the middle of the military boot market. You're paying for legitimate weight savings and Italian craftsmanship, not just marketing hype. The price reflects quality materials and thoughtful design rather than brand premium.
For ruckers who complete multiple events per month or military personnel logging serious miles, the reduced fatigue from lighter boots justifies the investment. However, if you need one pair for occasional use or prefer maximum ankle support, traditional combat boots offer better value. These excel in a specific niche rather than being all-purpose boots.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Exceptionally light at 505g per half pair
- ✓ AR670-1 compliant for military use
- ✓ Athletic cleat-inspired sole provides excellent traction
- ✓ Wide sizing available for broader feet
- ✓ Minimal break-in period required
Cons
- ✗ Less ankle support than traditional combat boots
- ✗ No waterproof membrane
- ✗ Long-term durability uncertain for heavy loads
- ✗ Suede retains more heat than mesh alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these boots suitable for heavy rucking with 40+ lb packs?
While they'll handle it, the lightweight design sacrifices some ankle support. For regular heavy rucking, consider more robust combat boots. These excel with lighter loads and faster paces.
How does the sizing run compared to standard combat boots?
Garmont sizing runs true to US military standards. The wide option genuinely accommodates broader feet. Most users find their normal boot size works without adjustment.
Will these boots work for civilian rucking events?
Absolutely. The military compliance doesn't limit civilian use. They're excellent for GORUCK events and training rucks where speed matters more than maximum load capacity.
How long is the break-in period?
Minimal compared to traditional leather boots. Most users report comfort within 10-20 miles. The lighter materials conform faster than heavy-duty leather.
Are these waterproof?
No. The suede leather resists light moisture but isn't waterproof. They dry faster than membrane boots, which some ruckers prefer for warm weather training.
