Austrian Army KAZ 03 Alpine Boots, surplus, in good condition.

Current issue for the Austrian "Gebirgsjäger" mountain troops, this boot is unparalleled in alpine luxury.

A staple in the Austrian boot lineup, the heavy alpine boots made for the Bundesheer by a variety of contractors have undoubtedly one of the finest pedigrees in alpine warfare. They're a great balance of classic boot design and ruggedness but with modern features like speed lacing that make them ever applicable.

The interior is completely lined with high quality glove-like leather, and the exterior a hard-wearing full grain cowhide. Austrian boots have the reputation of being worn for several deployments, either being passed down to the next group of boot camp grunts, or thanks to a recent change in law, taken home by those who wore them.

In the winter time, the supreme waterproofing and classic "vibram style" sole are a godsend. Not exactly ideal in the summer, but mountain warfare isn't all that warm anyways...

We think you'll end up agreeing with the Austrians — 'hand me down' is a compliment to how long this boot will last.



Specs

Hook Grommets
2mm thick leather construction, full grain cowhide
Insulated tan leather lining along the entire throat
Full gusseted tongue
Partially perforated ankle vents lets perspiration though but keeps the environment out
10”-11” tall covering and supporting the entire ankle
Reinforced toe cap
4 rows D-ring and 5 rows of hook style speed lacing grommets


Breaking in your boots

Generally, these Austrian boots have already seen some use. This does mean that the leather is not as stiff as new boots, but a breaking-in period is still recommended.

To break in your boots, wear them as often as possible over a one-to-two-week period of regular activity (think grocery store trips, not hiking trips or guerrilla warfare). Use good, full-length wool socks, and take note if you feel any "hot spots" while walking around. Friction between your foot and the boot causes blisters. Breaking in your boots should help with this.

If hot spots persist, silk or synthetic "liner socks" (worn under your wool ones) are a cheap and easy way to protect your feet. They are freely available at most outdoors stores.