Oakley's Ultralight Boot That Actually Works
At 14 ounces per boot, the Light Assault 2 challenges everything you thought tactical footwear had to weigh. Oakley took the eyewear precision they're known for and applied it to boots, creating something genuinely different in the rucking space.
A legitimately lightweight tactical boot that performs well for fast-paced rucking and training. Not bombproof, but impressively capable for the weight class.
Best for: Fast-paced training and urban rucking under 20 miles
Check Price — $155.00Specifications
| Price | $155.00 |
| Weight | 0.9 lbs |
| Dimensions | 6H x 12W x 15L in |
| Material | Cordura, Leather, EVA |
Durability
The leather and PU-treated Cordura upper strikes a careful balance. It's not the invincible 1000D you'd find on heavier boots, but it's tougher than you'd expect at this weight. The materials hold up well to urban rucking and moderate trail use.
We've seen scuffing on the toe box after hard use, which is expected given the weight savings. The stitching remains solid, and the speed lace system hasn't failed despite repeated stress. These won't last as long as 2-pound beasts, but they're not disposable either. For the intended use case, durability is adequate.
Comfort
The EVA midsole delivers surprising cushioning for such a minimal platform. Out of the box, break-in is remarkably short—most testers were comfortable within 2-3 ruck sessions. The 8-inch height provides ankle support without the stiffness that plagues heavier tactical boots.
Ventilation is decent thanks to the Cordura panels, though these aren't summer mesh trainers. Your feet will get warm on long rucks in hot weather. The insole is basic but functional. Serious ruckers will want to swap in aftermarket insoles for extended comfort on 12+ mile events.
Features
The speed lace system is the standout feature. It locks down fast and stays tight throughout movement, which matters when you're transitioning from ruck to run. The slip-resistant outsole grips well on wet pavement and moderate trails, though it's not aggressive enough for technical terrain.
Water resistance from the PU-treated Cordura works for puddles and light rain but won't handle stream crossings. These are weather-resistant, not waterproof. The lightweight design means less protection around the toe box and heel counter compared to full tactical boots, which is the trade-off for speed.
Value
At $155, these compete directly with entry-level Salomon and mid-range tactical boots. You're paying for the weight savings and Oakley's design DNA. That's fair value if speed and agility matter more to you than maximum protection.
These make sense for ruckers who do mixed training—rucking, running, CrossFit-style workouts. They're less sensible if you need one boot for everything including heavy load carries over rough terrain. The specialized nature justifies the price for the right user, but limits the overall value proposition for general-purpose rucking.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Genuinely lightweight at 14 oz without feeling flimsy
- ✓ Speed lace system locks down fast and holds tight
- ✓ Minimal break-in period compared to traditional tactical boots
- ✓ Good traction on urban and moderate trail surfaces
- ✓ EVA midsole provides solid cushioning for the weight
- ✓ Ankle support without excessive stiffness
Cons
- ✗ Not waterproof, only water-resistant for light conditions
- ✗ Cordura shows scuffing faster than full leather boots
- ✗ Basic insole needs upgrading for serious distance
- ✗ Less toe protection than heavier tactical options
Frequently Asked Questions
How do these compare to Salomon speedhikers for rucking?
The Oakley Light Assault 2 offers more ankle support and a more secure lacing system than most Salomon speedhikers, but Salomon typically has better ventilation. Choose Oakley if you want tactical boot structure at trail runner weight.
Are these suitable for GORUCK events?
Yes for Light and Tough events. The 14-ounce weight and speed lace system excel in fast-paced challenges. For Heavy events or multi-day Selection, you'll want more robust boots with better waterproofing and durability.
What's the actual break-in time?
Most users report 2-3 ruck sessions before they're fully comfortable. This is significantly faster than traditional tactical boots which can require 20+ hours. The EVA midsole and flexible upper contribute to the quick break-in.
Do I need to size up or down?
Oakley boots generally run true to size. Order your normal athletic shoe size, but leave room for thick rucking socks. If you're between sizes, go up a half size for all-day comfort with heavier socks.
How long do these boots typically last?
Expect 300-500 miles depending on terrain and load weight. That's less than bombproof tactical boots but reasonable for the weight class. Urban ruckers will see longer life than those on rough trails.
