Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/661228
Design Operators needed a boot that sat between the traditional Combat boot and multi-functional military boots (like the lOwA Zephyr). military per- sonnel needed a 'hybrid' boot capable of a number of different tasks and functions. The target was to have a lightweight boot that still retained the stability and the walking characteristics of a lightweight hiking boot but offered users the support and protection found in a tactical boot.The up- per of z-8 has been sewn fully from durable 2 mm thick nubuck leather dyed in black. Boots are resistant to mechanical damage much more effi- ciently than the suede Zephyrs. from the inside, the upper is padded with soft Vita tex, with the struc- ture of a dense mesh. The material is breathable and efficiently removes moisture from feet to the outside of the boot. Between the net and the skin, there is a vapor-permeable GorE-tEX® ms light Rock membrane providing exceptional breathability and water resistance (provided that we properly maintain the leather of the upper). The upside part of the upper forms a soft, high collar padded with foam. It is additionally enforced with leather straps in the front and side part, which provides great steadiness and let the boot fit well to the user's leg over the ankle. The back part has a loop to help in tightening the shoes – it is con- siderably bigger than in the lower z-6. The gusseted tongue is softly padded and prevents water or sand from getting into the boot. Of course, it also has the gore-Tex membrane, while the upper part has sewn-on leather enforcement securing from abrasion caused by shoestrings. sOLe The outside sole is connected with the upper thanks to the inner PU layer in which guarantees amortization for feet. The sole becomes a structure named monowrap – it is visible outside the boot in form of characteristic elements with a shape similar to trapezoid. Thanks to this, z-8 has spots with increased firmness, which perfectly supports, stabilize and holds feet in the boots. At the same time, the system guarantees high flexibility and convenience, which additionally improves and protects the lower part of the upper. z-8N includes a modified and beefed up Cross-duty pattern www.fragoutmag.com