190502_Att_06_-PD_06-32_USMC_HW_Combat_Boot_May__2019.pdf

CR-PD 06-32

16 April 2016

PURCHASE DESCRIPTION

MARINE CORPS COMBAT BOOTS, HOT WEATHER

1. SCOPE

1.1 Scope. This document covers the requirements for an Olive Mohave colored USMC

Hot Weather Combat Boot for use in both hot weather wet and dry environments from

40 to 170 degrees F (4 to 77 degrees C) weighing 2.10 pounds per boot for a Men’s Size

10R and weighing less than 1.80 pounds per boot for a women’s size 8RF. The boot shall be of one type with a partial speedlace closure system (lace-to-toe or open-toe design) with a flex “V” notch, and removable cushion inserts. The upper leather shall be breathable, water-resistant, and mildew resistant Coyote 476/498. The boot shall have nylon quarters, lining, closed-cell foam comfort collar, backstay, ankle reinforcement, rubber outsole and a cushion midsole. The outside leather areas shall be flesh-out for

Class I leather and grain side out with 2 (two) drainage eyelets located in the inner arch of each boot. The eyelets and boot construction must allow water out, but not allow sand to get into the boot. All materials on the exterior of the boot shall be a subdued color to approximate the Olive Mojave color 200512 of the upper fabric and leather.

The USMC Hot Weather Combat boot shall be manufactured using DMS, Welt, Stitchdown, or the injected molded process and shall be capable of being resoled through its lifecycle, given that the upper is in good condition. Stitchdown construction shall be applied using one type with a partial speed lace closure system with lace to toe or open toe design with flex “V- notch” Unless otherwise indicated, all performance requirements called out in this specification pertain to a item made on a size 10R men’s last or a 8RF women’s last. The design and pattern must follow the example provided in

Figures 2A and 2B for all but stitchdown design, 2C Figure is for stitchdown toe to lace.

Unless otherwise indicated, all performance requirements called out in this specification pertain to an item made on a size 10R men’s last and an 8RF women’s last.

1.2 Classification. The boots for men shall be in the following whole and half sizes: 3 through 15 inclusive, and whole size 16, in the following widths: N, R, W, XW, (B, D, EE, EEEE). The boots for women shall be in the following whole and half sizes: 5 through 9 inclusive, and whole sizes: 4, 10, and 11, in widths of R, W (D, EE), and in size 4.5R. Women’ s sizes will contain an “F” to differentiate them from the men’s boot

(ex. Men’s: 10R, Women’s: 8RF). See paragraph 6.1.

1.2.1 Class: The classes of Hot Weather Combat boots are as follows:

Class I – Cattle hide Upper Leather

Beneficial comments (recommendations, additions, deletions) and any pertinent data, which may be of use in improving this document, should be addressed to the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Clothing &

Textiles Directorate, Attn: DSCP-CRFD, Bldg. 6D, 700 Robbins Avenue, Philadelphia, Penna., 19111-

5096, by using the Standardization Document Improvement Proposal (DD Form 1426) or by letter.

AMSC N/A FSC 8430, FSC 8435

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

2.1 General. The documents listed in this section are specified in Sections 3, 4, or 5 of this specification. This section does not include documents cited in other sections of this specification or recommended for additional information or as examples. While every effort has been made to ensure the completeness of this list, document users are cautioned that they must meet all specified requirements documents cited in sections 3, 4, or 5 of this specification, whether or not they are listed.

2.2 Government documents.

2.2.1 Specifications. standards, and handbooks. The following specifications, standards, and handbooks form a part of this document to the extent specified herein.

Unless otherwise specified, the issues of these documents are those cited in the solicitation or contract (see 6.1).

FEDERAL SPECIFICATIONS

V-T-295 - Thread, Nylon

COMMERCIAL ITEM DESCRIPTIONS

A-A-52071 - Tape, Textile, Cotton, General Purpose

A-A-55093 - Laces, Nylon

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE SPECIFICATIONS

MIL-C-41814 - Counter, Footwear

MIL-PRF-3122J - Leather, Cattlehide, for Footwear Uppers, Gusset, Chrome

Tanned, Fatliquored

(Copies of these documents are available online at http://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/ or from the Standardization Document Order Desk, 700 Robbins Avenue, Building 4D, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094.)

2.2.2 Other Government documents, drawings and publications. The following other

Government documents drawings and publications form a part of this document to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the issues shall be those cited in the solicitation or contract.

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

Rules and Regulations Under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act http://assist.daps.dla.mil/quicksearch/

(Copies are available online at www.ftc.gov or from the Federal Trade Commission, 600

Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20580-0001.)

DRAWINGS

U.S. ARMY RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT, AND ENGINEERING

COMMAND

2-1-1635 - Speed Lace Assembly

(Copies of drawings are available from the Natick Soldier Center, ATTN: AMSRD-NSC-

IP-A, Natick, MA 01760-5019.)

(Copies of documents required by contractors in connection with specific acquisition functions should be obtained from the contracting activity or as directed by the contracting activity.)

2.3 Non-Government publications. The following documents form a part of this document to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the issues of the documents are those cited in the solicitation or contract (see 6.2).

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF TEXTILE CHEMISTS AND COLORISTS

(AATCC)

AATCC Evaluation Procedure 9, Visual Assessment of Color Difference of

Textiles

AATCC 119 Abrasive Durability

AATCC 127 Water Resistance (Hydrostatic Pressure Test)

AATCC 22 Water Repellency

(Copies of documents are available on line at www.aatcc.org or from the American

Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, P.O. Box 12215, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709-2215.)

ASTM INTERNATIONAL (ASTM)

ASTM-D-297 - Rubber Products-Chemical Analysis

ASTM-D-412 - Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers (Tension

Elongation)

ASTM-D-471 - Rubber Property-Effect of Liquids

ASTM-D-624 - Tear Strength of Conventional Vulcanized Rubber and

Thermoplastic Elastomers

ASTM-D-751 - Coated Fabrics (Hydrostatic Resistance or Breaking

Strength)

ASTM-D-792 - Density and Specific Gravity (Relative Density) of Plastics by Displacement http://www.ftc.gov/ http://www.aatcc.orgul/

ASTM-D-816 - Test Methods for Rubber Cements

ASTM-D-1052 - Measuring Rubber Deterioration-Cut Growth Using Ross

Flexing Apparatus

ASTM-D-1055 - Specifications for Flexible Cellular Materials-Latex Foam

ASTM-D-1630 - Rubber Property-Abrasion Resistance (Footwear Abrader)

ASTM-D-1777 - Thickness of Textile Materials

ASTM-D-2208 - Breaking Force and Elongation, Grab Method

ASTM-D-2240 - Rubber Property-Durometer Hardness

ASTM-D-3273 - Resistance to Growth of Mold

ASTM-D-3574 - Flexible Cellular Materials- Slab, Bonded, and Molded

Urethane Foams

ASTM-D-3575 - Compression Set of Cushion Materials

ASTM-D-3787 - Bursting Strength of Knitted Textiles Constant-Rate-of-

Traverse (CRT)

ASTM-D-3886 - Abrasion Resistance for Textile Fabrics (Inflated Diaphragm

Apparatus)

ASTM-D-4786 - Stitch Tear Strength, Single Hole

ASTM-D-4966 - Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics (Martindale Abrasion

Tester Method)

ASTM-E-18 - Rockwell Hardness and Rockwell Superficial Hardness of

Metallic Materials

ASTM-E-96 - Water Vapor Transmission of Materials

ASTM-F-392 - Flex Durability of Flexible Barrier Materials

ASTM-F-1614 - Shock Attenuating Properties of Material Systems for

Athletic Footwear

(Copies of documents are available on line at www.astm.org or from the ASTM

International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19426-2959.)

AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR QUALITY

ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 - Sampling Procedures and Tables for Inspection of

Attributes

(Copies are available online at http://www.asq.org or from the American Society for

Quality, 600 Plankinton Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203.)

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION (ISO)

ISO 4914 or 4915- Textiles – Stitch Types – Classification and Terminology

(Application for copies should be addressed to International Organization for

Standardization, Casa Postale 58, CH-1211 Geneve 20, Switzerland.)

SATRA FOOTWEAR TECHNOLOGY TEST METHODS

http://www.astm.org/ http://www.asq.org/

MTM-2 -Tensile Properties of Insole Materials

MTM-3 -Flexing Endurance Test for Fiberboards

MTM-14 -Resistance to Scuffing by Mild Circular Abrasion for

Fiberboards

MTM-31 -Abrasion Resistance-Martindale Method

MTM-33 -Seam Fray

MTM-60 -Ross Flex, Method 2: Resistance to Cut Growth on

Flexing

MTM-64 -Compression Set

MTM-80 -Transverse Tensile Strength of Sheet Materials

MTM-98 - Dimensional Stability with Changes in Atmospheric

Humidity

MTM-101 -Surface Peel Strength of Insole Materials

MTM 149 -Strength of Eyelet Facings and Other Laced Fastenings

MTM-223 -Non Marking (Rubber Outsole)

MTM-404 -Rapid Sole Adhesion Test-for Complete Footwear

MTM-405 -Determination of Sheer and Peel of Insole Ribs

(Application for copies should be addressed to SATRA Technology Center, SATRA

House; Rockingham Road, Kettering, Northamptonshire; NN 16 9 JH, England.)

2.4 Order of precedence. In the event of a conflict between the text of this document and the references cited herein, the text of this document takes precedence. Nothing in this document, however, supersedes applicable laws and regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.

3. REQUIREMENTS

3.1 First article. When specified (see paragraph 6.1), samples shall be subjected to first article testing and first article inspection (see paragraph 6.2) in accordance with paragraph 4.4.

3.2 Materials. Recycled, recovered, or environmentally preferable materials should be used to the maximum extent possible provided that the material meets or exceeds the operational and maintenance requirements, and promotes economically advantageous life cycle costs. Materials used in the production of this item shall be of standard commercial practice, and shall be modified if necessary in order to meet the needs of Marines in the environment for which the item is intended. Materials used to produce this item shall prevent fungal/bacterial infestation, reduce foot odor, and be non-hazardous to the user.

These traits in the chosen materials shall be permanent. The quality and workmanship of the item is expected to exceed that found in the commercial market, given the environment for which the item is intended. It is expected that all materials used to meet the Purchase Description will hold up under the extreme conditions found in the Jungle, Desert, and Garrison environments. Materials should be selected to optimize the overall boot performance for the given environment, not specifically address a single measure of performance (i.e., weight, comfort, shock attenuation, water absorption, etc). All materials visible to the wearer shall match the color of the leather. Component materials shall not vary in their color or appearance. Materials shall be free of non-removable spots, stains, or other foreign matter effecting appearance.

3.2.1 Weight. The weight of the entire end product shall not exceed 2.10 pounds (dry) for a men’s boot made on a men’s size 10R last and shall not exceed 1.80 pounds (dry) for a women’s boot made on a women’s size 8RF last. The weight of the boot when saturated with water shall be minimized through materials and construction technique.

Materials selected to accomplish this end item weight must meet durability requirements of the US Marine Corps. Materials that trade weight for durability or overall performance are not in the best interest of the US Marine Corps.

3.2.2 Height. The height of the men’s boot shall be between 8.5 and 9.0 inches, while the women’s boot shall be between 8.0 and 8.5 inches from the feather line to the top of the boot at its tallest point, so that users are protected from the elements and provided with biomechanical support. The height shall be graded up and down between sizes and widths appropriately to minimize the interference with the calf musculature. The overall height of the boot shall include the comfort collar. Height shall not vary between boots of a pair by more than ¼ (0.25) inch.

3.2.3 Shock Attenuation Shock Attenuation (as measured IAW ASTM F1614) shall be optimized for user comfort and injury reduction. Peak Acceleration (Peak g) shall not exceed 18.00g in the Forefoot or 14.00g in the Rearfoot. Shock attenuation shall be achieved through the choice of standard materials and construction techniques used in commercial industry and found in this Purchase Description. Human biomechanical gait parameters while wearing combat boots shall not be compromised to achieve increased shock attenuation. Requirements for shock attenuation will be tested in the end item as specified in Table XVI. A Certificate of Compliance will be acceptable for the stated requirements.

3.2.4 Forefoot Flexibility Longitudinal forefoot flexibility shall be optimized such that normal gait patterns are minimally disturbed, and risk of increased injury is minimized.

Torsional flexibility shall be optimized to allow normal range of motion and mediolateral stability during gait (loaded and unloaded), and prevent overpronation.

3.2.5 Water Absorption and Drying Materials selected for use in this item shall be such that water absorption (and thus weight gain) is minimized, and time to completely dry, once saturated, is minimized. Materials selected to accomplish this end item performance must meet field durability requirements of the US Marine Corps. Materials that trade water absorption and drying time for durability or overall performance are not in the best interest of the US Marine Corps.

3.2.6 Temperature, Environment, and Material Weathering Materials selected for use in this item shall perform equally well in the Jungle, Desert, and Garrison environment for the life of the item. The operational temperature ranges that are expected for this item are

40 degrees F – 170 degrees F. Humidity ranges that can be expected for this item are 0%

- 100%. Exposure to UVA / UVB wavelengths shall not interfere with the material performance or color of the item/component. Immersion in salt water shall minimally affect end item/ component performance. Items will be expected to optimally perform with consistent exposure to the above conditions.

3.2.7 Field Life /Shelf Life. Shelf life for the USMC Hot Weather Combat Boot shall be no less than 10 years when stored for future use by the U.S. Military. Field life shall be no less than 365 days under normal conditions by Marines in the Jungle, Desert, or

Garrison environments.

3.2.8 Standard sample. The standard sample for color shade and sueded flesh appearance shall be a swatch of Olive mohave cattlehide leather, shade 200512.

3.2.9 Visual shade matching (components). Any component referencing matching the standard shade and appearance in 3.2.8 shall be viewed using AATCC Evaluation

Procedure 9, Option A, under filtered tungsten lamps that approximate artificial daylight

D75 illuminant with a color temperature of 7500 + 200 K, with illumination of 100 + 20 foot candles and shall be a good match to the standard sample under horizon lamplight at

2300 + 200 K.

3.3 Leather.

3.3.1 Upper leather. Class I or II leather may be used.

3.3.1.1 Class I: Cattle hide. The leather shall be breathable, waterproof, flesh out, mildew resistant USMC Coyote 476/498. The leather shall be flesh out drum dyed

Olive with color penetrating throughout the thickness of the hide so that the chrome tannage is not visible. The leather for the vamps, inside counter pockets, outside counter pockets and eyelet stays shall conform to MIL-PRF-3122J, Type I, Treatments A and B. The thickness shall be as specified in Table IX.

The leather for the front edge eyelet stays shall conform to MIL-PRF-3122J, Type II, Treatment A. The following exceptions to MIL-PRF-3122J shall be applicable for the upper leathers:

a. The flesh surface shall be sueded as to produce a fine uniform nap.

b. The grain surface shall be lightly buffed to remove the surface of the grain only.

c. The finish requirements for the leather shall not apply.

d. The tear strength requirements for the front edge stays, inside counter pockets and eyelet stays shall not apply.

e. The thickness shall be as specified for the cut parts in Table VIII.

f. As an option, the eyelet stays may conform to MIL-PRF-3122J, Type I, Treatment A and Treatment B.

g. As an alternative, the grain side may be exposed if treated in a nubuck finish.

3.3.1.2. Fungicide Treatment. Leather treated with Diiodomethyl para tolysulfone shall not contain less than 300 ppm and not more than 2000 ppm. Test method available from Chemtan Company, Inc.; P.O. Box C; Exeter, NH 03833 Phone: 603-

772-3741. Leather treated with thiocyanomethylthio benzothazole shall not contain less than 100 ppm and not more than 400 ppm. Test method available from

Buckman Labratories; 1256 North McLean Blvd; Memphis, TN 38108. Phone: 800-

282-5626. Leather treated with Ortho-phenyl phenol shall meet the requirements as listed in MIL PRF 3122J.

3.4 Insoles. The insole shall meet the requirements specified in Table I when tested as specified in 4.8. A Certificate of Compliance shall be submitted and will be acceptable for the stated requirements.

Table I. Insole Performance Requirements

Characteristics Physical Requirements Test Method

Thickness

Welt Construction 0.095 +/- 0.010 inch ASTM D-1777 1/

DMS Construction /

Injected Molded

Construction

0.145 +/- 0.021 inch ASTM D-1777 1/

Fungal resistance Level 10 ASTM D-3273

Wet Tensile 70 kgf/cm2 min. SATRA MTM-2

Flexing Index 3.7 (5000 cycles) min. SATRA MTM-3

Abrasion Resistance

Cellulose board 50mm3 max. SATRA MTM-14

Non-Woven board 25,600 revs dry/6400 wet

(min.)

SATRA MTM-31

Transverse Tensile-Dry 8 kgf/cm2 min. SATRA MTM-80

Dimensional Stability 0.7% max. SATRA MTM-98

Peel Strength 0.5 kgf/cm2 min. SATRA MTM-101

1/ A thickness gauge of the dead-weight type equipped with a dial graduated to read directly to 0.001 inches shall be used. The presser foot shall be circular, with a diameter of 1.129 (+/- 0.001) inches and with moving parts weighted to apply a total load of 0.60 (+/- 0.03) pounds per square inch (psi) to the specimen. The anvil shall be not less than 1.129 inches in diameter. The presser foot and anvil surface shall be paned to within 0.001 inches and shall be parallel to each other to within 0.001 inches.

2/ The specimens shall show no holes through the full thickness after the specified number of revolutions.

3.5 Fabrics

3.5.1 Upper fabric.

3.5.1.1 Gusset and Quarter side panels. The gusset and quarter side panels shall be

100% nylon 6,6 or equal; plain weave; 140 filaments per inch of 1000-denier nylon, conforming to the standard shade of Olive number 2000512. The material shall be fungal resistant, water resistant, non-wicking, and backed with lining material to eliminate water absorption and moisture wicking. The combination of lining and gusset and quarter side panels shall conform to the physical requirements listed in

Table II when tested as specified in paragraph 4.8. Tear strength of the material shall be such that normal Marine use and wear does not cause undue damage to the quarter panels. Construction of the end item shall be such that the seam strength between the 1000-denier nylon and all other components (i.e. back strap, ankle reinforcements, and binding tape) is adequate for the life of the item. The top of the backstay shall be folded over the quarter side panels, stitched, and have a clean, finished appearance. The stitching shall be durable and extend the life of the item.

A minimum of two rows of stitching are required around the eye stay wedge and ankle area for increased support in accordance with Figures 2A and 2B.

Table II. Gusset and Quarter Side Panel Requirements

Component Characteristic Requirement Test Method

Gusset

And Quarter Side

Panels

MVTR

(breathability)

Water Repellency

80% not less than

500 gm/m²/24hrs.

90 (IS04)

ASTM E96 (B)

AATCC Method 22

3.5.1.2 Thread, nylon. The thread shall be nylon, conforming to type I, II or III, class A or B, size E of V-T-295. The thread shall be conform to the shade of the standard sample of Olive. Colorfastness requirements shall not apply. The maximum thread elongation for all thread shall be 32 percent. Testing shall be as specified in 4.8.

3.5.2 Boot Lining. The lining shall be fabric with foam backing to provide comfort.

The lining shall manage moisture, minimize water absorption, and dry quickly. The color shall be Olive shade 200512 to approximate the exterior color of the USMC Hot Weather

Combat Boot. The combined material shall provide a minimum moisture vapor permeability of 1000 grams per square meter per 24 hours when tested IAW ASTM E96 procedure B. The combined material shall have abrasion characteristics capable of meeting the needs of field Marines in the environment for which it is intended, and have a hand suitable for the comfort of the wearer for the life of the item. The lining shall be properly mated with the upper and shall not be loose, wrinkled, or discolored.

3.5.3 Binding Tape. Binding Tape shall be used on all exposed edges of the 1000-denier nylon. The color shall be Olive matching that of the standard sample (see 3.2.8). Testing shall be as specified in 4.8. The binding tape shall be bound to the nylon fabric for the life of the item, and not affect the Marine’s comfort or the overall item performance. The material shall be treated to eliminate moisture wicking.

3.6 Color. The color of the face side of the laminated cloth shall conform to the color standard of Coyote 476/498.

3.7 Fabric liner for Cushioned Insert. The cloth used for the fabric top cover on the cushioned inserts shall conform to the performance criteria listed in Table III. Testing shall be as specified in 4.8

Table III. Removable Cushion Insert Requirements

Characteristics Physical Requirements Test Method

Density 17 (+2, -1) lb/cu. ft. ASTM D-3574

Tensile strength 82 lb./sq. in. (min) ASTM D-3574

Compression set 25% @ 10.6 psi ASTM D-3574

@ 77 degrees F 50% @ 21.6 psi ASTM D-3574

Fabric Liner: Martindale Abrasion

Fabric Only; Dry 153,600 revs/9,600 cycles (min) ASTM D-4966 1/

Fabric Liner: Bursting Strength

Fabric Only 125 lbs. min. ASTM D-3787

1/ As described in the test method; Martindale Tester; Pressure applied: 12 kPa; Visually examine specimens after each 3200 cycles; Abradant changed after each 3200 cycles.

3.8 Comfort Collar. The top band shall have a length equal to the circumference of the boot top exclusive of the gusset and tongue, and shall provide the necessary padding for comfort. The band width should be of equal height around the top of the boot as presented in figures 2A and 2B. The closed- cell foam padding shall not absorb liquids, shall not be susceptible to hydrolysis, shall have a compression set such that comfort is provided for the life of the item, and shall not promote fungal or bacterial growth.

3.9 Box toe. The material for the box toe shall be a laminate of 0.020 ± 0.002-inch virgin ionomer resin (surlyn) sandwiched between two layers of non-woven polyester saturated with polystyrene. The total thickness shall be 0.056 ± 0.005 inches. The box toes shall be skived 3/8 ± 1/8 inch wide at the breast. Testing shall be as specified in 4.8.

A Certificate of Compliance shall be submitted and will be acceptable for testing/inspection requirements.

3.10 Counters. The boot shall be constructed such that the counters minimize "hot spots" or blisters to the user. The counter shall conform to fit the last used and fill the counter pocket area. The counters shall have a thickness of 0.090 (+/- .010) inches, and shall conform to the physical requirements listed in Table IV when tested as specified in paragraph 4.7. Skiving of the counters shall be in accordance with commercial practice.

The top of the counter pocket shall not be skived. The physical requirement for single hole tear strength of MIL-C-41814 is eliminated. As an alternative, counters manufactured from leather board need not meet the chemical requirements of MIL-C-

41814 but must meet the fungicide requirements of MIL-PRF-3122J. A Certificate of

Compliance shall be submitted and will be acceptable for testing/inspection requirements.

An extruded thermoplastic film sandwiched between fusion bonded non-woven fabric made from a blend of synthetic fibers and impregnated with a styrene copalmer and coated on each side with a thermoplastic adhesive may be used. The total thickness shall be 0.79 to 0.83 inches. A thermoplastic counter may be used and shall conform to the performance requirements of Table IV. A certificate of compliance shall be submitted and will be acceptable for the stated requirements.

Table IV. Thermoplastic Performance Requirements

Characteristics Physical Requirements

Initial Collapsing Load (N) >130 N

Resilience (%) 25% min

Moisture Resistance (%) 80% min

Area Shape Retention (%)

Initial 85% min

10th collapse 60% min

1/ Resilience is percentage retention of initial collapsing load after ten collapses.

2/ Moisture resistance is percentage retention of initial dry collapsing load after 1 hour immersion.

Table V. Counter Requirements (Para 4.7)

Characteristics Minimum Maximum Crush Resistance 8% 35% Tear Strength (Wet) 30% - (Single hole) - Water Absorption - 40%

Water Soluble - 0.05%

Disintegration - 1.25%

NOTE: Single hole tear strength not applicable to DMS construction.

3.11 Shank. The steel or fiberglass shanks, shall be bonded to the insole, and shall conform to the shape of the last. The fiberglass shank (glass and resin area) when cured shall be 5/8 ± 1/16 inch in width. The steel shank shall be constructed from 19 gage, cold rolled carbon steel with a hardness ranging from 47 to 54 Rockwell C scale. The width of the steel shank shall be 5/8 (+/- 1/32) inch for boot sizes 3 through 6-1/2 (all widths), 7 through 8-1/2 N, and all R widths. For all other sizes and widths, the steel shank width shall be 1(+/- 1/32) inch. The shank shall be made with two ribs for the 5/8 inch width and three ribs for the 1 inch width. Testing shall be as specified in 4.8. A Certificate of

Compliance shall be submitted and will be acceptable for the testing requirements.

3.12 Eyelets and Speed Lace Assembly. The eyelets and speed laces shall be brass with an Olive coated finish, which is durable enough to remain on the eyelets and speed laces for the life of the item. The eyelets and speed laces shall not rust, tarnish, or otherwise change the subdued finish color for the life of the item when exposed to the environment indicated in paragraph 3.21.4. Eyelet and Speedlace attachment shall be such that they remain permanently fixed to the upper through the life of the item. Adjustments shall be made such that all sizes allow users to easily utilize the speed lace system, and proper closure of the item is achieved. Speed laces and eyelets shall be equally spaced on the eyelet stays to allow proper lacing and cinching of the boot for donning and doffing, and shall have the same alignment between both rows. The bottom eyelets shall be placed in a position on the foot such that they do not cause hot spots, blisters, or other irritation.

Testing shall be as specified in 4.8.

3.12.1 Drainage Eyelets. The eyelets and boot construction must allow water out, but not allow sand to get into the boot. The eyelets shall be permanently fixed to the boots for the life of the item, and shall have a subdued finish to blend with the color of the

Olive shade leather upper. The placement of the eyelets shall be in the inner arch of the boot, at a location that allows the greatest possible drainage of water from the boot.

Internal components of the boot must not interfere with the proper drainage from the eyelets. Drainage eyelets shall be placed at the same location relative to the solid midsole on all boots (with variation according to boot size). Testing shall be as specified in 4.8.

3.13 Bottoming. The bond achieved between the boot upper, solid midsole, cushion midsole, and outsole shall be resistant to any delamination for the life of the item.

Bottoming shall be optimized to reduce wear on the outsole, increase shock attenuation, and shall not negatively affect the overall comfort of the item. Overall height of the bottoming, from the true feather line to the bottom of the outsole, shall not negatively affect overall item performance, user performance, or natural gait biomechanics.

Bottoming must match the upper material color of Olive. Bottoming must be durable enough to withstand standard use by Marines in a jungle, desert, and garrison environment while executing combat training and operations. The thickness of bottoming components shall be uniform between and within pairs. Edge scouring of the rubber outsole shall be smooth and regular for quality appearance. No bottoming component shall be malformed, contain air pockets, or contain wrinkles.

3.13.1 Solid midsole. The rubber midsole for use with welt, stitchdown and littleway constructions shall be 4 ± 1/2 iron, and oil resistant. The DMS construction rubber midsole (base sole) shall be 1/4 ± 1/16 inch, measured from the top of welt line to the bottom of the solid midsole. The midsole shall be Olive in color matching the standard sample (see 3.2.8). Testing shall be as specified in 4.8.

3.13.2 Cushioned Midsole. The midsole shall provide the necessary stability, durability, and seek to increase the overall performance of the item by optimizing the performance called out in this specification (i.e. Weight, Shock Attenuation, etc) and meet the requirements specified below in paragraph 3.13.2.1 and in Table VI. The cushion midsole shall be Olive in color matching the standard sample and conform to the shade of the upper.

3.13.2.1 Polyether polyurethane requirements. The requirements for the midsole are based on testing done on slabs (according to ASTM procedures) and are not actual soles.

T he compound should be able to endure a minimum shelf life as listed in paragraph

3.2.7. The requirements shall be as specified in Table VI. A Certificate of Compliance shall be submitted and will be acceptable for the stated requirements. (See 4.2)

Table VI. Polyether Polyurethane Requirements

Characteristics Minimum Maximum Test Method

Density (gm/cc) 0.50 0.60 ASTM D-297

Hardness (shore A) 50 75 ASTM D-2240

Tensile strength (kgf/cm sq) 25 - ASTM D-3574

Elongation (%) 350 - ASTM D-3574

Tear strength- Die T (kg/cm) 3.7 - ASTM D-3574

Volume swell (%) w/ ASTM Oil #3 (at 24 hrs)

ASTM D-471

Compression Set % - 20 SATRA MTM-64

Ross flex (1x6 inch) at 5oC 900% @

150,000 cycles

- ASTM D-1052 1/2

1/ Test method modified to include 2.0 MM insole board glued onto the specimen and conducted at –5 degrees C. The specimen shall not be heat aged prior to test and shall be of the thickness specified in ASTM D1052 before laminating to the insole board.

2/ A 2.0 MM insole board bonded to the flex sample may be used.

3.13.3 Midsole. The midsole for use with stitchdown, and welt constructions shall be 4

(-1/2 + 1 iron), Olive 200512 in color, oil resistant, and it shall meet the requirements of

Table VI. The DMS construction midsole (base sole) shall be ¼ (+/- 1/16) inch, measured from the top of welt line to the bottom of the midsole.

3.13.4 Outsole. The outsole design shall be the Olive shade Quabaug Vibram Sierra

1276 design (see Figure 3) or alternate approved design with equivalent durability. The outsole shall be a minimum of 18-iron (9.5mm) in thickness of solid rubber at each of the lugs. The tread pattern shall maximize traction, durability, and gripping properties equal to the Vibram 1276. Outsole must be able to retain its design and all performance requirements when directly exposed to temperatures up to 300 degrees F. The color of the Vibram identification plug and outsole shall be Olive shade 200512 to match the upper material and shall be non-marking.

3.13.4.1 Rubber compound requirements. The requirements for the rubber outsoles are based on the testing performed on 0.250 or 0.070 gauge inch test slabs (in accordance with ASTM procedures) and are not actual soles. There may be some deviation on actual outsoles or midsoles based on style thickness and curing parameters. The requirements shall be as specified in Table VII, when tested in accordance with 4.8.

Table VII. Rubber Compound Requirements

Characteristics Outsole 4 Iron Midsole Test Method

NBS abrasion 150 min. N/A ASTM D-1630

Hardness (shore A) 70-80 A N/A ASTM D-2240

Stitch Tear (dry) 180 lb. Min 180 lb. Min ASTM D-4786

Stitch Tear (Fuel B) 50 lb. Min 50 lb. Min ASTM D-4786

Die C tear strength 300 lb. Min. N/A ASTM D-624

Ross flex, Oil #3 250% max. @ 50,000 flexes N/A ASTM D-1052

Volume swell, Fuel

B (@ 46 hrs)

30% max. 30% Max ASTM D-471

Non-marking Pass N/A SATRA MTM-223

Tensile 2,100 lb. Min N/A ASTM D-412

Elongation 400% min. N/A ASTM D-412

3.13.5 Bond Strength. The bond achieved between any of the bottoming layers (cushion midsole to upper, solid midsole, and cushion midsole to outsole) to include the boot upper shall meet performance requirements as stated below and be permanently resistant to any delamination. Any bond failures between any of the components will be explicitly covered under warranty, and those failed items will be replaced on a one-for-one basis, no questions asked (as is done in commercial practices).

3.13.5.1 Entire sole to the upper. (For DMS Only) The bond strength (at the ball) shall not be less than 130 pounds. Test shall be performed on the end item as specified in

Table XVI. When 5 end items are tested, no more than one test item may fall below 130 lbs. while no recorded values shall fall below 110 lbs. Testing shall be as specified in

4.6.1.

3.13.5.2 Outsole to Cushion Midsole Bond Strength. The outsole to cushion midsole strength shall not be less than 140 pounds when tested as specified in Table XVI. The test shall be performed on the end item. When 5 end items are tested, no more than one test item may fall below 100 lbs. While no recorded values shall fall below 80 lbs.

Testing shall be as specified in 4.6.1.

Note: The components of the sole shall be layered in such a manner that the specified

Bond Strengths will be achieved regardless of the type of sole construction (i.e. 3 layer or injected molded process). If test results find values to be less than specified due to material failure in regard to the bond between the layers, the test will be classified as a failure.

3.13.5.3 Solid midsole to cushion midsole bond strength. The solid rubber midsole or base sole to cushion midsole bond strength shall not be less than 120 pounds when tested as specified in Table XVI. The test shall be performed on the end item. When 5 end items are tested, no more than one test item may fall below 100 lbs. while no recorded values shall fall below 80 lbs. Testing shall be as specified in 4.6.1.

3.13.6 Adhesion at toe (DMS only)

The bond strength at the toe area of the sole shall not be less than 60 pounds, with the exception that one specimen out of the five tested may be below 50 pounds, but not less than 40 pounds. Testing shall be as specified in 4.6.1.

3.13.6.1 Specimen. The test specimen shall be a single finished boot of any size.

3.13.6.2 Procedure The apparatus shall be the SATRA Sole Adhesion Tester STD 185/s or 185, equipped with toe 185/5, having an arc length of 22 mm, a radius of 1-1/4 inch, and a toe piece length of 12.7 mm. A description of such apparatus may be found in

SATRA Test Method AM4. Adjust the height of the anvil to suit the sole thickness using the packaging pieces provided. The forepart or sole should be approximately horizontal or sloping slightly downward towards the toe. Check the zero of the load gauge, and correct if necessary. Place the test boot without a last on the anvil of the adhesion tester so that the toe piece of the instrument is inserted in the feather line groove between the sole and the upper. Grasp the boot firmly and press down on the back so that the load increases steadily. If possible, apply the load at such rate that the test is completed in about 3 seconds. Push the boot against the pressure block when applying the load to prevent the toe of boot from slipping out of the engagement with the toe piece of the instrument. However, avoid digging the toe piece into the upper material excessively, as this may affect the result obtained. Slipping is less likely to occur if the boots are tested-before edge trimming. When the sole begins to separate from the upper (for a distance of approximately 1/8 inch [3 mm] in from the feather edge), read the load on the instrument.

This is usually a maximum value, the load dropping as further separation takes place.

3.14 Removable cushion insert. The removable cushion insert shall be a low-density polyether-polyurethane heel cup support made of a polyurethane system, black in color, and lined (black or tan in color). The cloth shall conform to the requirements of the cushioned insert in 3.7. The cushioned insert shall provide comfort, and shall be made to optimize the fit of the item, given the last the item was made on. The cushion insert should take a minimal compression set, even after extensive wear or material conditioning. The cushion insert and its lining shall be resistant to fungal growth, provide good frictional characteristics, and shall not be susceptible to hydrolysis.

Cushion inserts shall have durability such that they last for the life of the item. Cushion inserts shall be properly mated to the item with a last used in the manufacturing of the item. Cushion insert shall be mated, by size, to the correct sizes boots and shall be uniform. The total thickness of the insert shall be a minimum of 0.100 inch forward of the instep, and a minimum of 0.220 inch elsewhere. Requirements are outlined in Table

VIII. Testing shall be as specified in 4.8.

TABLE VIII. Removable Cushion Insert Requirements

Characteristics Requirement

Density 16-20 lb/ cu. ft.

Foam Hardness 55-65 Shore 00

Tensile Strength > 80 psi

Compression Set @ 25% < 5%

Compression Set @ 50% < 5%

3.15 Laces. The color of the laces shall be Olive shade 200512 and match the color of the upper leather. The laces shall not fray during military use. The length of the laces shall be a minimum of 66 inches. Laces shall meet minimal requirements found in CID A-A-

55093 (Type III, Class 1).

3.16 Lasts. The boots shall be made on a last specifically designed for men and a last specifically designed for women and that meet the requirements found in this Purchase

Description and intent of this specific piece of footwear. The numerical size of the boot shall correspond with the numerical size of the last used to produce the boot (i.e. a size

10R boot shall be produced on a size 10R last). Last design should optimize fit and comfort in conjunction with the overall item design to promote maximum adjustability for the user. Additionally, last design shall accommodate for the cushion insert that will be used with both the men’s and women’s end item.

3.17 Design. The boot shall be Olive in color and have a padded collar covered with a nylon cloth. The boot shall contain a partial speedlace closure system and removable cushion inserts. The outside leather areas shall be flesh-side out with two drainage eyelets located in the inner arch area of each boot. The quarter shall be nylon, the backstay, and ankle reinforcements shall be nylon webbing. The boot shall have a resolable rubber outsole and a pure polyether polyurethane cushion midsole. The design and pattern must follow the example provided in Figures 2A and 2B.

3.18 Construction

3.18.1 Cutting uppers. The leather parts shall conform to the thickness specified in

Table IX and the requirements of MIL-PRF-3122J for Type I (Class I) only. All other leather (eyelet stays, ankle reinforcement) shall conform to the thickness specified in

Table IX. Vamps shall be cut from the bend area of the side leather.

Vamps shall be examined as specified in Table XV. Front edge stays shall not be split.

TABLE IX. Thickness of leather uppers (ounces)

Thickness of leather uppers (ounces)

Part Class I Cattle hide Class II Pigskin

Min Max Min Max

Vamp 5 6 3.5 4.5

Foxing 4 6 3.5 4.5

Eyelet Stay 3 4 2.5 3.5

Ankle Support Strap 4 6 2.5 4.5

Inside Counter Pockets 3 4 2.5 3.5

3.18.2 Skiving. Skiving of upper leather parts is permitted. Splitting of the leather is only permitted for the inside portion of the eyelets stays, inside counter pockets. Leather

Vamps and Ankle Support Straps shall not be split. Skiving of the top edge of the outside counter-pocket shall not be permitted.

The vamp shall be skived at the throat and wings. The outside counterpocket shall be skived at the stitch edge and top.

3.19 Boot finishing. No top finish or treatment shall be used on boots.

3.20 Marking, permanent identification. With the exception of PDMs, the Contractor shall permanently mark the correct size, width, contract number (Example: 03-D-9999), and company name on the inside of gusset/tongue area. The boot shall contain a manufacturing tracking lot number. A company logo or name is not permitted anywhere on the exterior of the boot. The permanent marking shall be done in accordance with acceptable commercial practices and shall not reduce footwear functionality. Heat embossing of the United States Marine Corps "Eagle, Globe, and Anchor" Logo is required on the outside quarter (heel area) on both the left and right boot. (See figure

2D). The EGA shall be permanently marked anchor forward for both the left and right boot. The design detail of the EGA shall be clearly visible from a distance of three (3) feet. A recommended source of the EGA die is: Manufacturer’s Supply, St. Louis, MO.

Phone (314) 770-0880.

The die sizes for embossing of the EGA are as follows:

Boot Size Die Size for the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor

Men’s 3 through 7 ½ Small

Men’s 8 through 10 Medium

Men’s 10.5 through 16 Large

Women’s 4 through 9 1/2 Small

Women’s 10 through 11 Medium

For non-depot shipments, each unit pack and exterior container shall be marked following standard commercial practices. Unit pack identification shall include the item name, NSN, and UPC with bar code, contract number, American sizes and widths and as an option, the contractor’s name and/or logo. The initials “UPC” must appear under the

UPC bar code. The exterior containers shall be marked to identify the NSNs with bar code, quantity, and unit of issue, date of pack. Contract number, shipment number, pallet gross weight and cube and a visible marking with the words “MADE FOR DSCP”.

Depot shipments for boots shall be marked in accordance with MIL-STD-129P.

3.21 Instruction tag. The instruction label/tag is to be tied to the finished boots and the print size shall be 8 to 10 points, 1/8 inch (+/- 1/32) inch. The instruction/label tag shall be printed using the data specified and approved by the government prior to full rate production. The information provided in Sections 3.21.1 through 3.21.6 must be included on the care and use instruction label/tag. Each item shall be individually bar-coded. The bar-coding element shall be a 13 digit national stock number (NSN). The bar-code type shall be a medium to high code density and shall be located so that it is completely visible on the item when it is folded and/or packaged as specified in the contract and so that it causes no damage to the item. As an option, component and boot feature hangtags may be attached to the boots.

3.21.1 Safe use of your USMC Hot Weather Boots. “For the safe use of your USMC

Hot Weather Combat Boots: 1) Wear 1 pair of socks made of wool, acrylic, polyester, olefin, nylon, or lycra blend. Cushion soled socks are recommended. 2) Always wear with one pair insole inserts. In some instances it may be necessary to select a slightly larger size boot than normally worn in order to allow for normal swelling of the feet and the use of insole inserts or cushion socks. Pull on boot, seating heel firmly into place, then lace. Boots should fit snugly but not tightly. There should be at least a 3/8 inch minimum additional length at the toe. If blistering occurs, check to make sure that the boots are fitted properly and that you are wearing recommended socks.”

3.21.2 Cleaning and Maintenance Instructions. “To Properly Clean and Maintain your

USMC Hot Weather Combat Boots: 1) Brush mud and excessive dust off boots with a stiff nylon bristle brush and warm water. These boots have a suede finish and are not to be polished. 2) Wipe inside of boots occasionally with a moist rag and let dry. 3) As frequently as possible, dry boots and insole in the sun. If boot becomes wet, empty excess water, change socks, and continue to wear while changing socks regularly. Boots will dry must faster when worn than if left to stand and dry. Do not place near intense heat as this will destroy nylon and leather. 4) The nylon side panels of your boots are as strong as leather and will last if cared for properly.” Do not use soap to clean your boots.

If more stringent cleaning is necessary, only water soluble cleaning products should be used as oil- or alcohol- based cleaning products may damage your boots.

3.21.3 When to Replace the USMC Hot Weather Boot Outsole. “Your USMC Hot

Weather Boots come with a replaceable rubber outsole. Do not wear the any part of the outsole past 1/16” (in thickness) or permanent damage of the cushioned midsole will occur. The midsole is the soft cushioned material between the rubber lug outsole and the boot upper. To find the repair retailers closest to you visit http://www.vibram.us/repair.”

3.21.4 Purpose and Performance of the USMC Hot Weather Combat Boot. “Your

USMC Hot Weather Combat Boots are designed for maximum comfort and performance in hot weather environments that include both wet (Jungle) and dry (Desert) conditions.”

3.21.5 Who to Contact for Questions about your USMC Hot Weather Combat Boots.

Must include information on who/how to contact within your company with questions regarding use and care of the USMC Hot Weather Combat Boot.

3.21.6 How to get your boots resoled. . “To find a Vibram sole repair retailer close to you visit http://www.vibram.us/repair.” Visit http://www.marcorsyscom.usmc.mil/sites/mcub/ for a list of USMC Approved Resoling

Services.

3.22 Workmanship. The quality of workmanship and end product for this item is expected to exceed that found in standard commercial industry given the known environment and user for which the item is being manufactured. The finished boots shall conform to the quality of product established by this document. The occurrence of defects shall not exceed the contractor's own quality assurance standards and the quality assurance standards defined by the technical data in the bid package. The government will not accept poor quality workmanship, manufacturing defects, or low quality end products.

3.23 Visual Quality Workmanship End items shall have no tears, holes, evidence of repair or other damage. There shall be no markings remaining on the boot upper.

Components shall be placed properly, and all assembly operations shall be executed properly. Boots shall be paired properly.

http://www.vibram.us/repair http://www.vibram.us/repair http://www.marcorsyscom.usmc.mil/sites/mcub/

3.24 Seams, Stitching, and Workmanship All seams shall be uniformly stitched, and shall be locked such that it cannot be pulled out. Open seams, broken seams, or runoff stitches shall not be present. When multiple stitch seams are utilized, the stitching shall be regularly spaced between stitches and rows of stitches. Tight seams which cause components to pucker, wrinkle, or malform shall not be present. Loose seams shall not be present. Thread ends shall be trimmed throughout entire boot. Outsole seams (if utilized as specified in this document) shall not deform outsole pattern, and shall be uniform distance to edge of outsole. Stitching gage shall be regular, and needle holes or needle

"chew" shall not be permitted. Internal seams shall not be such that they cause irritation, "hot-spots", blisters, or other damage to the user.

4. VERIFICATION

4.1 Responsibility for inspection. Unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the contractor is responsible for the performance of all inspection requirements

(examinations and tests) as specified herein. Except as otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the contractor may use his own or any other facilities suitable for the performance of the inspection requirements specified herein, unless disapproved by the

Government. The Government reserves the right to perform any of the inspections set forth in this specification where such inspections are deemed necessary to ensure supplies and services conform to prescribed requirements.

4.1.1 Responsibility for compliance. All items shall meet all requirements of Section 3.

The inspection set forth in this specification shall become a part of the contractor's overall inspection system or quality program. The absence of any inspection requirements in the specification shall not relieve the contractor of the responsibility of ensuring that all products or supplies submitted to the Government for acceptance comply with all requirements of the contract. Sampling inspection, as part of manufacturing operations, is an acceptable practice to ascertain conformance to requirements, however, this does not authorize submission of known defective material, either indicated or actual, nor does it commit the Government to accept defective material.

4.1.2 Responsibility for dimensional and material requirements. Unless otherwise specified in the contract or purchase order, the contractor is responsible for ensuring that all specified dimensions and material requirements have been met.