Patrik Orcutt 12.13.24
At this point, I’m definitely a bit of a GORUCK fanboy and I think it’s important to acknowledge this for these reviews. I love their products and I think GORUCK is a pretty awesome company with what they do for the military community, veterans, and fitness. I currently own 3 of their bags and carry their GR2 every day for class (review to come soon). I am not going to elaborate on who Goruck is in this review. So, if you want that information, feel free to look at any of my past reviews on their products. Today’s review will focus on one of their most highly anticipated products in my opinion, the GORUCK MACV-2 Mid Top Boot.
The GORUCK MACV-2 Mid Top Boots were provided for this review by GORUCK and while I am allowed to keep these indefinitely, it will not change my current or future opinion on any GORUCK Products. GORUCK has not been allowed to preview this review prior to publishing. The Boots were testes over the course of the past year on many Rucks around the neighborhood as well as on the trail. I also wore them casually a few times last winter on the beaches of Florida.
GORUCK Coverage on AllOutdoor
Specs: MACV-2 Mid-Top Boot
- Materials – Made with leather and 1000D Cordura, they are lightweight and include drainage holes for wet conditions.
- Comfort – They feature a cushioned insole, a spacious toe box for foot movement, and a 13mm heel-to-toe drop to reduce strain during prolonged use.
- Outsole – Constructed with a triple rubber compound for traction, durability, and mud-shedding on rugged terrain.
- Design – Ankle webbing provides support, and the boots are suited for activities such as rucking and outdoor wear.
- MSRP – $170
Design and Aesthetics
If you know anything about GORUCK, you know that they love their Military History. GORUCK clearly took inspiration from classic Vietnam Era Jungle boots, but they’ve updated the look with modern materials and thoughtful touches. The combination of leather and 1000D Cordura nylon gives the boots a rugged yet sleek appearance. The mid-top design hits a sweet spot for ankle coverage and support without feeling overly restrictive. This makes the boots versatile for activities that range from rucking and hiking to urban wear. They’re available in neutral colorways that blend well with outdoor gear or casual attire, making them suitable for multiple scenarios.
Comfort Out of the Box
One of the standout features of the MACV-2 boots is how comfortable they are straight out of the box. Some boots require an uncomfortable break-in period, but that wasn’t the case here. The leather is soft yet durable, and the wide toe box provides ample room for natural toe splay. Unfortunately, the sizing has been a bit off for me on these boots. Usually, I wear between a 9.5 and a 10 in most footwear so I requested a size 9.5 initially for review. When I put on the size 9.5 boots I was swimming in them and returned them for a size 9. The size 9 fit better but after a few longer outings on the trail, I notice a lot of chafing on my heel. I am not saying these boots are uncomfortable but i would certainly try them on in person before ordering a pair so you don’t make the same mistake I have.
The EVA midsole is lightweight and provides just the right amount of cushioning. Whether I was walking on pavement or rugged trails, my feet felt supported without that heavy, clunky feeling you sometimes get with tactical or hiking boots. Additionally, the boots are surprisingly breathable for something so rugged, which is a bonus for long days in warmer climates.
Performance on Various Terrains
I put the MACV-2 boots to the test on several terrains, including dirt trails, rocky paths, urban streets, and even through shallow streams. They performed exceptionally well across the board. The outsole provides excellent grip, even on wet or loose surfaces. On rocky trails, the boots offered enough traction and stability to keep me confident in my footing. The midsole cushioning, combined with the supportive construction, reduced fatigue during long hikes.
One of my favorite features is the drainage system. The boots have built-in drainage holes, which are a nod to their jungle boot heritage. I intentionally submerged them in a shallow stream, and they drained water quickly without retaining excess moisture. However, it’s worth noting that these boots are not waterproof. If you’re looking for footwear to handle consistently wet or snowy conditions, you might want to explore GORUCK’s other offerings or pair these with waterproof socks.
Durability and Build Quality
GORUCK has a reputation for producing durable gear, and the MACV-2 boots live up to that standard. After a year of use, including some demanding hikes and rucks, they show minimal signs of wear. The stitching remains intact, and the leather and Cordura upper have held up well against abrasions.
The outsole appears to be built for the long haul, showing little wear even after frequent use on rugged terrain. This durability is particularly important for rucking or hiking enthusiasts who need boots that can withstand heavy loads and challenging conditions. I haven’t noticed any peeling or separation in the sole, which can be a weak point in some boots.
Drawbacks
As much as I’ve enjoyed these boots, they’re not without a few drawbacks. First, the lack of waterproofing limits their utility in consistently wet or snowy conditions. While the drainage system is excellent for quick water crossings, it won’t keep your feet dry in prolonged rain. Second, the price point might be a consideration for some. These boots are an investment, and while I believe they’re worth it for the quality and performance they offer, budget-conscious people will probably laugh at the price. However, considering their durability, they’re likely to outlast cheaper alternatives, making them a better long-term value. Lastly, I would say getting the right size has been a bit annoying, It seams that GORUCK boots are about 1 size larger than every other boot on the market I have worn.
Final Thoughts
The MACV-2 Mid Top Origins boots are a well-rounded piece of gear that combines classic military-inspired design with modern materials and technology. They’re comfortable, durable, and versatile, making them a strong contender for anyone needing reliable boots for day to day tasks or that 10 mile ruck in the rain. I appreciate how GORUCK has managed to create a boot that performs exceptionally well in challenging conditions while still looking great for casual wear. The comfort factor (when sized correctly) is a great feature, and the minimal break-in period is a huge plus. While they’re not without their limitations—namely, the lack of waterproofing and insulation—they excel in most other areas. Would I recommend them? Absolutely. If your needs align with what these boots offer, they’re a worthwhile investment.
