GORUCK's MACV-2 Boots: The Best Rucking Boots Upgraded
Introduction - The Legacy Continues
In the world of rucking, fitness, tactical training and hunting having the right gear can make all the difference in achieving your goals. GORUCK, a renowned brand known for its durable and high-performance products, such as rucksacks, backpacks, exercise equipment, and fitness apparel has recently launched its latest innovation: the MACV-2 boots. Which we believe are one of the best rucking and fitness boots available.
These boots are designed to meet the specific needs of ruckers and fitness enthusiasts, offering the user a perfect balance of functionality, durability, and comfort. In this blog post, we'll delve into the features of GORUCK's MACV-2 boots, the comparison between its predecessor the MACV-1 and explore how they can enhance your rucking and training to better prepare you for the challenges ahead.
First, let’s dive into a bit of a background on the MACV platform from GORUCK. The MACV platform is based on a Vietnam era style of boot. Originally utilized by Army Special Forces MACV-SOG combat units. GORUCK has taken that boot and modernized with top quality materials to take on the requirements and demands you will put them through. Whether it’s rucking, hunting, hiking, tactical, or training these boots are designed to meet and exceed your standards.
Design
UPPER // Challenge Leather™ or Suede
Hard wearing and only gets better with time and use. Paired with 1000D CORDURA® and 2" nylon webbing for added ankle support - debris and rain stay out and your feet can still breathe.
MIDSOLE // Lightweight EVA
The relationship between the EVA midsole and the rubber outer sole matters greatly to the performance of the boot - and the combined weight is a major factor in whether you want to wear them or not.
OUTSOLE // Dual Compound All-Terrain Rubber
Dual compound rubber outsole delivers versatile performance in any environment, including improved traction on wet and muddy terrain. The forefoot rubber is formulated for increased grip while the heel area is formulated for abrasion resistance and increased durability. The outsole also wraps up at the toes for understated protection against aggressive terrain or when doing push-ups.
HEEL-TOE-DROP // 13mm
Premium Suede Heel Counter: Wraps a supportive, injection molded plastic heel counter. This combo stabilizes your heel as the suede leather prevents the kind of friction that causes hot spots and blisters. The MACV-2 also boasts a tighter heel cup which hugs the back of the foot more securely.
PROFILE // 6" or 8" Boot
FIT // True to size with a wide toe box.
No Spacer Mesh //
Spacer mesh is soft, squishy, and feels comfortable to your hand when you touch it. But it’s a trap, literally. The first time spacer mesh looks at any kind of water, your boots get heavier and they stay that way. So GORUCK does not use spacer mesh.
Custom Compression Insert //
Custom insert uses a dense compression foam system that supports your entire foot from heel to toe - including contoured arch support - throughout the duration of your foot strike.
No Break-In Time //
They're ready when you are, right out of the box.
You can clearly see that GORUCK pays attention to detail when it comes to their efforts to design the best rucking boot on the market.
Why we like them
Here is why we think the MACV-2 is the best rucking boot on the market.
Unmatched Durability //
When it comes to rucking, durability is paramount. GORUCK's MACV-2 boots are built to withstand the harshest conditions and toughest terrains. With the added weight of a ruck having a boot with the correct outsole that will hold up to the increased dynamic force is a must. Constructed with high-quality full-grain leather and reinforced with triple stitching, these boots are built to last. Whether you're tackling rocky trails or challenging urban environments, the MACV-2 boots provide exceptional protection and longevity, ensuring they can withstand the test of time.
Superior Traction //
With a completely redesigned tread boasting an aggressive new lug design. Traction is a critical factor for any rucker or fitness enthusiast, as it determines stability and prevents slipping. The MACV-2 boots feature a rugged sole with multi-directional lugs, providing exceptional grip on various surfaces. From muddy trails to slippery pavements, these boots offer reliable traction, enabling you to stay focused on your rucking or fitness routine without worrying about footing.
Enhanced Comfort and Support //
Comfort and support are essential for long-distance rucking and intense fitness activities. GORUCK understands this well and has incorporated several features in the MACV-2 boots to optimize user comfort. The boots come with a removable footbed that offers cushioning and shock absorption, reducing fatigue and foot discomfort. Additionally, the padded collar and tongue provide extra support and prevent chafing during extended wear. With all the comfort features and lightweight design these boots can be used for trail runs as well with superior ankle protection.
All-Weather Performance //
Rucking and fitness enthusiasts often encounter various weather conditions, and having gear that can withstand them is crucial. The MACV-2 boots are designed to be weather-resistant, allowing you to keep pushing forward regardless of rain, snow, or heat. The full-grain leather upper is treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. Moreover, the breathable lining ensures proper ventilation, preventing excessive sweating and maintaining foot hygiene.
Tactical Design and Versatility //
In addition to their functional features, the MACV-2 boots boast a sleek and tactical design. The low-profile silhouette and suede leather exterior give these boots a stylish and versatile appeal. Whether you're rucking on the trail, hitting the gym, or hitting a day on the range, the MACV-2 boots transition seamlessly, making them suitable for various activities beyond rucking and fitness.
Comparison
MACV-1 vs. MACV-2
As previously stated, these boots are specifically designed to meet the demands of rucking and intense fitness activities. Let’s compare the features of the MACV-1 and MACV-2 boots to help you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect footwear for your needs.
Durability and Construction //
Both the MACV-1 and MACV-2 boots are built to withstand the rigors of rugged terrains and intense physical activities. Both the MACV-1 and MACV-2 offers a rough-out leather and 1000D Cordura construction, providing excellent durability and resistance to abrasion as well as high-quality full-grain leather, offering enhanced longevity and protection against wear and tear. Both boots are highly durable, provide excellent ankle support, and a comfort forward design.
Traction and Grip //
Traction is crucial for stability and preventing slips during rucking and fitness activities. The MACV-1 boots feature a grippy outsole with less aggressive lugs, but still providing reliable traction on various surfaces. However, the MACV-2 takes it up a notch with its newly designed sole, which offers multidirectional lugs for superior grip. The MACV-2's enhanced traction ensures optimal stability, even in challenging environments, making it an excellent choice for those who train on uneven terrain, gravel, rocky surfaces etc.
Comfort and Fit //
Comfort plays a significant role in ensuring a positive rucking and fitness experience. The MACV-1 boots are designed with an insert that provides cushioning and support for long-duration wear. They also feature a wide toe box, allowing for natural toe splay. Similarly, the MACV-2 boots come with a removable footbed that offers cushioning and shock absorption, reducing fatigue during extended activities. Both boots prioritize comfort, but the MACV-2's removable footbed allows for customization and potential replacements, catering to individual preferences. We feel that the toe box on the MACV-2 is slightly more spacious. So if that is something that is important to you it’s worth noting.
Weather Resistance //
When rucking outdoors, weather conditions can vary greatly. Both the MACV-1 and MACV-2 boots are designed to withstand the elements. As stated above, both the MACV-1 and MACV-2 boots feature a rough-out leather upper that is water-resistant, along with a full-grain leather upper treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish. Both boots provide protection against light rain and moisture, but the DWR-treated leather offers added water resistance, making it suitable for wetter conditions. It is worth noting that they ARE NOT waterproof. If you step in deep puddles you will get them wet. The positive is that they have a venting system which will allow for water to be expelled and the boot will dry quickly.
Style and Versatility //
The MACV-1 and MACV-2 boots differ in terms of style and versatility. Both boots have a similar profile with some slightly differing styling queues. The MACV-2 notably has a thicker outsole, whereas the MACV-1 has a slimmer outsole and less aggressive tread. As far as the upper of the boot, it's almost identical. The MACV-2 does edge out its predecessor with the new tread. Having a more aggressive tread makes it much more versatile, broadening the types of activities and weather it can tackle. Both boots will come in a suede leather or grain leather option and multiple colors.
Conclusion
In conclusion both the MACV-1 and the MACV-2 are built to withstand the rigors of anything you throw at them. The determining factor of which is the best rucking boot for you will ultimately depend on what you plan to put them through.
Our money is on the MACV-2, with its newly designed aggressive tread it allows its users to utilize them in a much wider array of terrain and weather conditions. And with only a 1.5 oz weight difference you can’t go wrong.
The MACV-2 will continue on the tradition of rugged durability that the MACV-1 blazed before it. We look forward to seeing you out there beating them up and putting the boots through some tough training sessions!