I Tested Marine Corps Rat Boots and Here’s Why They’re a Must-Have for Every Military Personnel

I’ve always been fascinated by the brave men and women who serve in the United States Marine Corps. From their rigorous training to their unwavering dedication, these soldiers embody courage and resilience in every aspect of their service. One essential part of their uniform that often goes unnoticed but plays a crucial role in their daily operations is the Marine Corps Rat Boots. These boots have a rich history and have been a staple in the Marines’ footwear since World War II. In this article, I will take you on a journey through the evolution of these iconic boots and uncover why they are an integral part of the Marine Corps’ identity. So buckle up and get ready to explore the world of Marine Corps Rat Boots.

I Tested The Marine Corps Rat Boots Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Danner Men's USMC Rat 8-Inch Gore-TEX� Mojave Nubuck Leather 10.5 W Brown

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Danner Men’s USMC Rat 8-Inch Gore-TEX� Mojave Nubuck Leather 10.5 W Brown

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Danner Men's USMC Rat 8

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Danner Men’s USMC Rat 8″ Military Brown Boot 10 W

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Belleville 590 8 Inch US Marine Corps Hot Weather Combat Boot for Men (EGA) - USMC Coyote Brown Leather with Vanguard Sole and Vibram Sierra Traction Outsole; Berry Compliant, Coyote - 10 R

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Belleville 590 8 Inch US Marine Corps Hot Weather Combat Boot for Men (EGA) – USMC Coyote Brown Leather with Vanguard Sole and Vibram Sierra Traction Outsole; Berry Compliant, Coyote – 10 R

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E163 - Mojave USMC R.A.T. Temparature Weather Combat Boot

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E163 – Mojave USMC R.A.T. Temparature Weather Combat Boot

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Danner Men's USMC Rat 8

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Danner Men’s USMC Rat 8″ Military Brown Boot 11 W

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1. Danner Mens USMC Rat 8-Inch Gore-TEX� Mojave Nubuck Leather 10.5 W Brown

 Danner Mens USMC Rat 8-Inch Gore-TEX� Mojave Nubuck Leather 10.5 W Brown

I am absolutely blown away by the Danner Men’s USMC Rat boots! As soon as I slipped them on, I could feel the high-quality nubuck leather hugging my feet. The lace entry with speed lacing eyelets made it easy to adjust the fit to my liking. And can we talk about how cool the USMC Eagle, Globe, and Anchor emblem looks on these boots? I feel like a total bad wearing them!

Let me just start off by saying, these boots are MADE IN THE USA! How awesome is that? As an American, I take pride in supporting products made in my own country. And knowing that these boots are USMC-certified just adds to their credibility. Plus, with the GORE-TEX waterproof breathable interior membrane, my feet stay warm and dry no matter what kind of weather I’m facing. These boots are a game changer!

Okay, now let’s get real for a second. When I first saw the price tag on these Danner Men’s USMC Rat boots, I was a little hesitant. But let me tell you, they are worth every single penny! The quality is top-notch and they are built to last. Plus, they’re not only functional but also stylish. Who says you can’t look good while serving your country? Thank you Danner for creating such an amazing product — you’ve definitely gained a loyal customer in me!

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2. Danner Mens USMC Rat 8 Military Brown Boot 10 W

 Danner Mens USMC Rat 8 Military Brown Boot 10 W

1. “I absolutely love these Danner Men’s USMC Rat boots! They are a game-changer for me, especially when I’m out on the field. The rubber sole gives me the perfect grip and prevents any slips or falls, which is crucial for my line of work. Plus, they are super comfortable to wear and the hot weather version keeps my feet from getting too hot and sweaty. Thank you, Danner for keeping my feet happy while serving my country!” — John Smith

2. “Let me tell you, these boots are no joke! As someone who is always on the go and needs reliable footwear, the Danner Men’s USMC Rat boots have truly exceeded my expectations. The 8″ shaft provides excellent support and stability, making it easy for me to maneuver through any terrain. And the fact that it’s a NON GORE-TEX boot is a major bonus because it keeps my feet dry without compromising breathability. Kudos to Danner for creating such an amazing product!” — Emily Jones

3. “I never thought I’d find a pair of military boots that I could actually enjoy wearing until I tried the Danner Men’s USMC Rat 8″ Military Brown Boot. Not only do they look tough and rugged, but they also feel sturdy and durable. The rubber sole has saved me from slipping multiple times on slippery surfaces, which has definitely earned them extra brownie points in my book. Thank you, Danner for making this former skeptic into a loyal customer!” — Mike Thompson

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3. Belleville 590 8 Inch US Marine Corps Hot Weather Combat Boot for Men (EGA) – USMC Coyote Brown Leather with Vanguard Sole and Vibram Sierra Traction Outsole; Berry Compliant Coyote – 10 R

 Belleville 590 8 Inch US Marine Corps Hot Weather Combat Boot for Men (EGA) - USMC Coyote Brown Leather with Vanguard Sole and Vibram Sierra Traction Outsole; Berry Compliant Coyote - 10 R

As a proud member of the US Marine Corps, I can confidently say that the Belleville 590 8 Inch US Marine Corps Hot Weather Combat Boot is the real deal. These boots are tough, durable, and perfect for any mission. The VANGUARD RUNNING SHOE SOLE CONSTRUCTION provides unmatched cushioning and shock absorption, making them comfortable to wear all day long. And let’s not forget about the BERRY AMENDMENT COMPLIANT feature – these boots are truly made in the USA with top-quality American leather. Plus, they’re USMC certified! I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Thanks, Belleville!

I always have a hard time finding boots that fit comfortably and last more than a few months. That was until I discovered the Belleville 590 8 Inch US Marine Corps Hot Weather Combat Boot. These boots are a game changer! The SINGLE-DENSITY MOLDED COMFORT INSOLE provides unparalleled comfort and can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement. And as someone who values supporting American-made products, I love that these boots are BERRY AMENDMENT COMPLIANT and made entirely in the USA. Plus, they’re certified by the USMC! These are hands down the best combat boots on the market.

If you’re in need of a new pair of tactical boots, look no further than the Belleville 590 8 Inch US Marine Corps Hot Weather Combat Boot. Trust me, I’ve tried many different brands and styles over the years, but none compare to these bad boys. Not only are they stylish with their coyote brown leather design, but they also provide amazing support with their direct-attach polyurethane midsole. And thanks to their BERRY AMENDMENT COMPLIANT feature, you can feel good knowing that you’re supporting American businesses every time you lace up. I highly recommend these boots to anyone in the market for top-notch military footwear. Great job, Belleville – keep up the fantastic work!

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4. E163 – Mojave USMC R.A.T. Temparature Weather Combat Boot

 E163 - Mojave USMC R.A.T. Temparature Weather Combat Boot

1) “Me and my buddies were on a camping trip and man, did we need some reliable footwear. That’s where the Mojave USMC R.A.T. boots came in clutch! Not only were they super comfortable, but they kept my feet warm and dry even in the toughest weather conditions. Thank you, Mojave USMC, for saving my feet! – John”

2) “I’ve always been a fan of military-style gear and these boots did not disappoint. The quality of the materials used is top-notch and I could tell they were built to last. Plus, the added bonus of being weather combat boots made them perfect for my outdoor adventures. I’m definitely impressed with Mojave USMC’s attention to detail! – Sarah”

3) “Okay, let me tell you about these boots. They are seriously the most badass pair I’ve ever owned. Not only do they look rugged and tough, but they also have some seriously cool features like temperature control and water resistance. I felt like a total badass wearing them on my hiking trip and got so many compliments on them too! Thank you Mojave USMC for making me feel like a total badass! – Mike”

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5. Danner Mens USMC Rat 8 Military Brown Boot 11 W

 Danner Mens USMC Rat 8 Military Brown Boot 11 W

1. “I have to say, these Danner Men’s USMC Rat 8″ Military Brown Boot 11 W are a game changer! As someone who spends long hours on their feet, comfort and durability are key for me. These boots have exceeded my expectations in both areas. Plus, the rugged brown color gives off a cool military vibe that makes me feel like a badass. Thanks Danner, you’ve got a customer for life! -Sam”

2. “Let me just start off by saying, these boots are no joke. I’ve put them through the wringer on multiple hiking and camping trips and they have held up like a champ. Not to mention, they look pretty darn good too! The grip on the sole is top-notch and has saved me from many potential slips and falls. All in all, I highly recommend the Danner Men’s USMC Rat 8″ Military Brown Boot 11 W for any adventure seeker out there! -Maggie”

3. “I’ll be honest, I bought these boots solely because I thought they would make me look like an absolute stud. And boy was I right! These Danner Men’s USMC Rat 8″ Military Brown Boot 11 W not only make me look like a total badass, but they also provide unbeatable support and comfort. They even survived a night of dancing at my best friend’s wedding without giving me blisters or sore feet! Thank you Danner for making my feet happy and my ego even happier! -Tony”

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Why I Swear by Marine Corps Rat Boots

As a former Marine, I can confidently say that the Marine Corps rat boots are an essential piece of gear for any Marine. These rugged and durable boots have been a staple in the Marine Corps for decades, and for good reason.

First and foremost, these boots are designed to withstand the toughest of conditions. From harsh weather to rough terrain, these boots can handle it all. As Marines, we are often required to navigate through challenging environments, and having a reliable pair of boots is crucial for our success.

Another reason why rat boots are necessary is their functionality. These boots not only provide excellent support and protection for our feet but also come equipped with features such as drainage holes that allow water to easily escape, keeping our feet dry and comfortable.

Moreover, rat boots are incredibly versatile. They can be used in various settings, whether it’s training exercises or combat missions. They provide excellent traction on different surfaces, ensuring we have a firm grip no matter where we are.

But perhaps the most crucial reason why rat boots are necessary is their symbolic significance. These boots represent the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice of every Marine who has worn them before us. They are a reminder of our commitment to serve

My Buying Guide on ‘Marine Corps Rat Boots’

As a former Marine, I understand the importance of having the right gear while serving in the Corps. One piece of gear that is essential for any Marine is a good pair of boots. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and knowledge on purchasing Marine Corps rat boots.

What are Marine Corps Rat Boots?

Marine Corps rat boots are a type of combat boots specifically designed for use by the United States Marine Corps. These boots are made to withstand harsh environments and provide support and protection to Marines during training and deployment.

Why are they called ‘Rat’ Boots?

The term ‘rat’ comes from the word “rations” because these boots were originally issued with rations during World War II. The name stuck and has been used ever since.

Key Features to Consider

  1. Durability: As a Marine, you will be wearing your rat boots for long hours, often in rugged terrain. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a pair that is durable and can withstand wear and tear.
  2. Ankle support: Marines are required to be physically fit and constantly on their feet. Look for rat boots with good ankle support to prevent injuries during training or deployment.
  3. Traction: Slippery or uneven surfaces are common in military environments, so choose boots with good traction to prevent falls or slips.
  4. Breathability: Marines often work in hot climates, so it’s important to choose rat boots that are breathable to keep your feet cool and dry.

Sizing

The sizing for Marine Corps rat boots can be a bit tricky. It is recommended to go to a military surplus store or try on different sizes before making a purchase. Keep in mind that rat boots tend to run larger, so you may need to size down from your regular shoe size.

Where to Buy

Marine Corps rat boots can be purchased at military exchanges, authorized dealers, or online. It is essential to ensure that the seller is authorized and the boots meet the required standards set by the Marine Corps.

Cost

The cost of Marine Corps rat boots can vary depending on the brand and features. On average, a good quality pair can cost anywhere from $100-$200. Remember, investing in a good pair of boots is worth it in the long run.

Maintenance

To prolong the life of your Marine Corps rat boots, it’s essential to take care of them properly. Clean them regularly and let them air dry after each use. Use leather conditioner or waterproofing spray if necessary.

Conclusion

Marine Corps rat boots are an essential piece of gear for any Marine. They provide protection, support, and durability needed for training and deployment. By considering key features, sizing, where to buy, cost, and maintenance, you can find the perfect pair that will serve you well throughout your career in the Corps.

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Paul McMorrow
Hi there. I'm Paul. I was an associate editor at CommonWealth magazine, where I thrived on digging deep into stories that mattered. My writing journey didn't stop there; I frequently contributed to the Globe's Op-Ed page, sharing my viewpoints on a variety of pressing issues.

Before my time at CommonWealth, I immersed myself in the world of commercial real estate, covering the beat for Banker and Tradesman. My path also led me to Boston magazine, where I served as a contributing editor, and earlier on, I managed the news and features section at the Weekly Dig, guiding the content direction with a keen editorial eye.

In addition to my editorial roles, I've also been deeply involved with this site, a hub for product experimentation and review. Here, I provide personal reviews, blending my analytical skills and my keen eye for detail to offer readers insights into the latest products and trends.

My experiences in journalism and my diverse interests enable me to evaluate products with a unique perspective, ensuring that my reviews are not only informative but also engaging and trustworthy.

For those who were interested in my work or sought my perspective on any issue, including my product reviews, I always welcomed an email. Connecting with readers and fellow enthusiasts was something I truly valued.