Tanker boots are just as their name suggests – they were developed for soldiers, particularly those who ride in and drive military tanks.
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The biggest difference between tanker boots and other types of military or work boots is that they don’t have shoelaces. Instead, they have leather straps that wrap around the upper part of the boot and buckle near the top.
In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of tanker boots and what professions can benefit from using them the most.
The Benefits of Tanker Boots
Some of the benefits of wearing tanker boots include:
They’re easy to put on
According to reports, tanker boots were first designed by The Dehner Company and U.S. General George S. Patton in 1937. Patton wanted his military tankmen to have a boot that they could easily and quickly put on, which is why they were developed without shoelaces.
They’re safe
Another reason tanker boots were manufactured was to keep tank-men safe. If laces in normal boots were to become entangled in the tank’s moving parts, it could drag the person or part of their body into the machinery, creating a dangerous situation.
Many work-type boots have nylon laces and canvas or nylon in their uppers, which will melt if exposed to fire, further injuring the worker or crewman. With the absence of these features, tanker boots are much safer in the event of a fire.
Finally, the all-leather construction of tanker boots prevents the absorption of harmful chemicals such as fuels, grease, and engine oil from absorbing into the leather and injuring the person’s feet or ankles. These types of chemicals are common in battle zones.
Better in mud
Tanker boots are easier to get on or off when they’re encased in mud, which is common during extended exposure to the outdoors. Mud can completely clog the eyelets of normal boots, making it nearly impossible to tie the laces.
An elevated level of protection
Tanker boots come with several options that can help improve the overall protection the boots offer the feet. For example, a pair of tanker boots with steel toes can protect workers' or soldiers’ feet from falling objects or puncture wounds that can cause severe injury.
Waterproofing
Tankmen or other people who work in wet, muddy conditions enjoy tanker boots because of their waterproof qualities. Tanker boots were developed to withstand some of the harshest weather conditions, including rain. Keeping feet dry and warm – even in the wettest conditions – is important for the comfort and health of your feet.
Durability
Tanker boots are manufactured using only the highest-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
Improved circulation
Because soldiers and other workers who wear tanker boots often sit in the same position for hours on end, tanker boots offer improved circulation. This is beneficial for military members who are seated as drivers or gunners in the same spot for extended periods of time.
How to Break in Tanker Boots
Like all work-type boots, tanker boots aren’t going to be as comfortable when you first start wearing them, so it’s important to properly break them in. To break in a pair of waterproof tanker boots, consider using the wet method. The steps include:
The goal of breaking in your boots with water is to gradually have them conform to your feet for a more comfortable fit once they dry.
Conclusion
If you serve in the military as a tankman or you work in a rigorous profession that requires you to sit for several hours at a time, you may want to consider tanker boots. Tanker boots are safe, durable, and long-lasting. Tanker boots can also be used in other industries, especially if you work around heavy machinery. The absence of shoe laces avoids the chances of your being pulled toward the machine if your laces get tangled up.
Tanker boots can be expensive, so it’s important to regularly clean and polish them so they’ll last you for years to come.
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