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While combat boots have become a favorite foot accessory in today's ever evolving fashion trends, the actual intent of military boots is completely different. In fact, combat boots are really more about functionality than fashion. What is special about combat boots that make them so excellent for soldiers, and how have they changed and improved over the years?

First of all, a form of combat boots has been employed by soldiers throughout much of history, dating back to the specialized hobnail boots of the Roman army. These boots are designed for wear during combat rather than for show, as the shoes worn by military personnel during parades and special ceremonies. The basic lace-up combat boot is the most common, though variations have been created for special purposes, including those for various types of troops (jump boots and tanker boots, for example), as well as boots for special environments through which soldiers might have to march (including jungle boots, cold weather boots, and desert boots).

Combat boots are built for functionality and provide a number of services to the wearer. Besides incredible foot protection that is ample for harsh and rugged environments, combat boots also provide various degrees of grip and ankle stability that help soldiers maintain sure footing in dangerous or slippery areas.

Most combat boots are waterproof, disallowing for leakage into the boots that can cause a fungus to build on the soldiers' feet, but at the same time, the material can actually provide ventilation for the skin so that sweat and heat are not held in. Though most of these boots are made of a leather that has been chemically treated or hardened, newer boots are including Kevlar and nomex as materials in the side panels of the boots to help retain a sturdy build while also providing additional ventilation for the feet.

In the past, combat boots were known to be uncomfortable for the wearer and if not properly fit to the individual's feet, may have even been painful. However, the modern Infantry Combat Boot used in the United States have been greatly improved for comfort as well as functionality. These newer models incorporate heel and ankle support and use Gore-Tex waterproofing for better protection, and they have also been modified to fit like the new civilian boots that many are wearing as a fashion statement today, providing extra comfort to the wearer.

Among other things, when you choose a pair of combat boots, whether they are for tactical training, actual combat, or just for fashionability, you should look for several details. The most important aspect of the boot is the way that it fits your feet. If the combat boot is in the least bit uncomfortable, you should not purchase it. Combat boots are not made to stretch and adjust to the shape of your feet like many shoes are. They are made to be sturdy and solid with little give so that they last and provide proper protection for a long time. Make sure the boots are of a solid, strong leather that is not likely to become threadbare in a few months' time. Remember, especially if you are purchasing the boots for use in the military, your boots will go through a lot of battle, causing quite a bit of wear and tear, and they should be able to withstand such pressures. Check that the soles of the boots are sturdy, with no cracks or wholes, and holding up under pressure. Should the boots not pass inspection, leave them behind. There are plenty of pairs in this world, and probably several hundred of them have the same items on the menu, so to speak. Therefore, the hardest decision to make would be either color or size of the boots.

If you want authentic combat boots and not a fashion knock-off, the best place to begin your search is in an army/navy supply store or military surplus store. Here, in the midst of hundreds of military supplies and clothing items, you'll find several pairs of combat boots to choose from, usually at a reduced price. If you are just looking for a fashionable accessory to go with a pair of Ralph Lauren cargo pants and a tank top, you can find imitations in most shoe centers in department stores or even in specialized shoe stores. This is quite a common choice, as many tend to imitate celebrities, and several rockers and famous personalities choose to wear combat boots as part of their image.