How to Break the Ankle of Combat Boots

Combat boots provide heavy-duty foot and ankle support to soldiers who are often required to carry heavy loads under stressful, off-road conditions. Army-issue black leather combat boots are sturdy and can take a beating, while the newer hot weather combat boots are better ventilated and have a padded collar at the top to keep out sand and grit. One feature both boots have in common is they are seldom comfortable to wear when brand new. Their 8- or 10-inch uppers (depending on the specific boot) are designed to support your ankle, not cradle it in comfort. Breaking in new combat boots, particularly around the ankles, is an important part of preparing for long foot marches and other field deployments.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle soap
  • Mink oil
  • Boot polish
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Instructions

  1. Hot Weather Combat Boots

    • 1

      Make sure your foot sits firmly in the heel of the boot. There should be a minimum of 3/4-inch additional length at the toe of the boot. If your boots don't fit correctly, exchange them for a better-fitting pair.

    • 2

      Wear the boots for short walks at first, then gradually increase the distance you walk in them. If discomfort occurs after only a short distance, or if your feet or ankles start to blister, your boots might not fit correctly.

    • 3

      Keep your boots as dry as possible during the break-in period. Hot weather boots are constructed of water-resistant polymers that may retain moisture from perspiration. Allow the boots to dry naturally between wearings; do not attempt to dry them with an external heat source, such as a hair dryer.

    Black Leather Combat Boots

    • 4

      Pull any removable insoles out of the boots and take out the laces. Submerge the boots in a tub of fresh water and let them soak overnight.

    • 5

      Remove the boots from the water, drain them and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Place the insoles back into the boots, then put them on and lace them up. Walk around in the wet boots for 15 to 30 minutes.

    • 6

      Take off the boots and remove the laces and insoles. Rub a generous amount of saddle soap into the outside of the boots, then set them aside to dry naturally. Do not use an external heat source to speed the drying process.

    • 7

      Apply a generous amount of mink oil to the exterior of the boots. Work the mink oil into the leather, taking particular care to saturate the boot's tongue and the side and back stitching just below the ankle. Leave the boots overnight for the mink oil to soak in.

    • 8

      Polish the boots. Replace the insoles and laces, then put on the boots.