In the autumn of 2017 the UK Ministry of Defence placed contracts for a range of new combat boots to replace the ten models in five categories first issued in 2012 in the new UK Brown colourway, writes Bob Morrison.
At the end of March Yorkshire-based ALT-BERG sent JOINT-FORCES a sample pair of their latest UK MoD Brown model, the Defender Mk.2, which is one of two types chosen after competitive trials to fulfil the Boots Combat High Liability (BCHL) requirement for the next five or so years. In addition to this category, two Desert Combat High Liability, one Cold Wet Weather*, one Patrol and one Jungle boot models have also been selected from footwear manufacturers AKU, HAIX and ITURRI; hopefully we will have the opportunity to review each of these in due course.
![](https://www.joint-forces.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Alt-Berg-7861.jpg)
Although very similar to the Defender-based BCHL issued by UK MoD from 2012 to 2017 the Mk.2 has a few subtle changes [© BM]
The main visual difference between the Mk.1 and Mk.2 is the replacement of the top two pairs of open lace hooks with closed lace loops / tunnels; this break with ALT-BERG tradition was a specific MoD requirement to eliminate the possibility of snagging on nets and cords (including parachute rigging lines). A less easy difference to spot is the cut of the top collar, which has been redesigned slightly at MoD request to increase comfort for those spending long periods driving vehicles or sitting in blast-protected seating (when the lower leg should be vertical rather than stretched out casually for comfort). Other minor differences include meshtex padding to the tongue to increase breathability and a lace slot cut in the outer face of the tongue to position it better, should this be required by the wearer.
![](https://www.joint-forces.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Alt-Berg-7871.jpg)
Two zone lacing system uses two pairs of D-rings at the bottom but all other fittings are closed loops / tunnels [© BM]
As should be obvious from the photos, the Defender Mk.2 combat boot is full leather and the specification sheets states that minimum 2.4mm full grain, water-repellent Anfibio European hides are used. The lining, which is non-waterproof, is breathable and rapid-drying Cambrelle; the family who own ALT-BERG are insistent that the best way to keep the foot dry in all climates and operating conditions is to make use the natural properties of the leather rather than relying on synthetic materials. A very informative illustrated pamphlet on boot care and sizing is included in the box with every pair of MoD issue boots, along with a tin of the company’s Leder Gris wax oil for keeping the leather supple.
![](https://www.joint-forces.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Alt-Berg-7866.jpg)
The outsole is the well-proven VIBRAM Tsavo which gives good grip on virtually all terrains and surfaces [© BM]
For more details on ALT-BERG Boots, or to purchase privately go to Altberg.co.uk. An interactive map showing stockists of both military and civilian models can also be found there.
* Correction
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Review and images © Bob Morrison
![](http://www.joint-forces.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Alt-Berg-7881.jpg)
Replaceable Alt-Berg insole is three-ply with mesh-backed felt bonded to a perforated moulded foam underside [© BM]
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