Service Shoe Type II

Service Shoe, Type II

Size tag visible on inside of boot

Although it has been repeated ad-naseum, the phrase "an army marches on it's stomach," is true, no matter what conflict is being discussed. However, I'd argue that an army's footwear is pretty damn important too. Enter the Service Shoe, Type II. Intended to supplement the Type I, this product took the form of a low-quarter boot, with finished leather facing out.
 The more famous "roughout" boots were constructed with unfinished leather facing out, so waterproofing could be easily applied. The Type II saw more use by garrisoned forces, although examples of soldiers wearing this footwear into combat have been well documented. This particular pair of boots is manufactured by At the Front, by a Chinese company. Original footwear is no longer suitable for field use, so this reproduction is the best chance for any re-enactor to obtain a facsimile, at a reasonable cost.

Marked US ARMY on sole.

  I understand that one reproduction company offers an American-made version of the Type II, although I find these to be cost-prohibitive at current. Many stories have detailed that the more expensive boot last longer than the Chinese copy, but I cannot verify these opinions. My ATF boots are a size 9D, marked on the underside of the sole. From the original photographs I have seen, the boots appear to be fairly accurate. The reddish-brown color of the originals has been approximately fairly well on these boots, but do differ to some degree. For the average re-enactor, comfort may be the overriding factor when it comes to a purchase. So how do the ATF copies stack up? I broke the boots in over a period of a month, and noticed that while the boots were comfortable, and lightweight, the soles were hard, lacking any degree of cushioning. Although I may get flak for saying this, the addition of a certain massaging gel insole may be warranted for extended time out in the field. I do enjoy these boots, and occasionally wear them with jeans, as they definitely are eye-catching. 

Classic toe cap stitching. Note the attention to detail around the eyelet area.