VIPER TACTICAL SNEAKERS
The PMCI team are always on the lookout for innovative
new footwear models, and with indoor training really
taking off in the UK we’ve found the perfect model in the
new Tactical Sneakers from VIPER.
It seems to me that the UK is really going through an
epiphany in relation to purpose-built indoor training sites
such as Tac House Spartan mentioned in our report on
Project GECKO. The choice of kit for training on these sites
will probably be radically different from what you would
use on an outdoor range or training area as you do not have
to contend with the environmental conditions so much.
Outside for most of the year in the UK you’re going to need
water repellent or waterproof clothing, along with some
good Gore-Tex lined footwear. The footwear also needs to
be of sturdy construction, offering high levels of support
and protection, as you’ll need to be able to overcome
uneven, maybe rocky, ground, along with muddy paths,
wet tree roots, and loose brass underfoot.
When it comes to training indoors however, things
get a little more laid back in relation to your clothing
and footwear. Yes, you’re still going to want to keep well
covered against training strikes, and given the shorter
engagement distances of “force on force” training turn to
some type of full-face protection, but you can genuinely
afford to run much lighter than outdoors.
When I first received a pair of the new Tactical Sneaker
boots from the lads at VIPER and lifted them clear of the
box my first thought was “Wow! Now these are LIGHT!”
and when I weighed one of the size 10s I was proved
correct as the scales registered just 392g; you heard that
right, a pair of tactical boots weighing under 800g a pair!
If you consider that my Speedcross running shoes weigh
322g each this will help to put things in perspective.
Available in UK sizes 6-12 the Tactical Sneakers are an
ultra-lightweight boot which has a sports-fit. You might
want to consider going up a size up from your standard
tactical boot sizing; I’m usually a good size 9 and was
advised to go for a 10 and the fit for me is perfect with
no unnecessary volume, and no felt pressure in evidence.
The boots have a Cordura side and tongue, and an overall
suede finish which looks great; the clever choice of
Cordura here means that the weight is kept down and
the durability up. They also have a vented instep to help
with breathability, and a multi-sectioned sole for better
manoeuvrability and grip.
The ankle cuff is reinforced with the same suede
material as the toe area of the boots, and this helps both
with comfort and support. The Tactical Sneakers are never
going to give you as much ankle support as something
like a full tactical boot, but there’s certainly enough there
for indoor, especially as these sites all benefit from nice
flat floors!
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Available in Black, Coyote, and Tan these are great value
at just £44.50. If you’re planning on training indoors, and
you abide by the mantra that “light is right”, then the
Tactical Sneakers could be just the footwear you’ve been
looking for!
For more information on the Tactical Sneakers and all
of the rest of the great gear in the VIPER range simply pay
a visit to www.viperkit.co.uk
pmcimagazine.com