Corcoran Jump Boots live up to 81 year legacy?

[@waynewatters9283]

My first pair of Corcorans were purchased in 1968, lasted for about three years of hard everyday Army duty use. I replaced them regularly with other Corcorans until my retirement from active duty in 1988. During that entire period I never noticed a significant change in quality, just a steady but manageable increase in price. They were great boots back in the day. I have to say, based on what your video shows, they are now WAY overpriced!

[@gomezdrhotmailcom]

Thank you for your Service.

[@1pcfred]

Yeah I don't remember paying more than about $80 for a pair. But I got mine at a military surplus store. They were the real deal as best as I can tell. They had the white tag in them with black and red letters as I can recall? It was a long time ago now.

[@dude28405]

Looks like they’ve cut the corners instead of up in the quality and raising the price. People that depend on boot like this I’m sure would rather have a better quality at a little higher price than an inferior boot at a lower price. I think the old saying about the joy of a low price short-lived compared to the Agony of poor quality

[@1pcfred]

@@dude28405 I think they've just changed the purpose of the boot today. Now it is for dress uniform wear.

[@javiervega1065]

@@patrickpeoples6382 what service

[@RirtyDascal]

We were still buying similar jump boots in 2003. That was one of the upsides of being in an Airborne unit since you were allowed to rock these boots even when most other units were switching to ACU and brown boots.

[@joshuawesteros5345]

ACU. Absolute garbage looking and performing. Hated that shit.

[@anthonysmerdon44]

Hey Rose, I'm sure someone else has mentioned this already, but in the US Army Airborne units are required to wear these exact boots in Dress uniform (shined of course). So, it is essentially a Historical cosplay for current paratroopers to carry on the legacy from WW2. That being said, here in the Airborne, we use these very rarely and exclusively as dress in garrison environments.

[@1pcfred]

What we're seeing here is not the original boot. From the outside it does look like them though. Those holes around the toe box are very distinctive. I always wondered what they were about?

[@russellromig8969]

@@1pcfred Paul are you saying that these are not the original 1940's/50's boots or these are not the Corcoran boots required for the greens uniform?

[@1pcfred]

@@russellromig8969 the boots here are not like older ones. I bought the ones I had in a military surplus store in the early 1980s. So they were originals or close to them. They could have been from the 50s or 60s.

[@anthonysmerdon44]

@@1pcfred correct, these are the reproduction boots that modern day soldiers wear with dress uniforms in airborne units.

[@1pcfred]

@@anthonysmerdon44 so they look like the original boots and that's as far as it goes.

[@anthonymiller8979]

My dad was in the 458th Parachute Field Artillery, 13th Airborne in WWII. He told me if you wore your jump boots into town before you had actually made your first jump the other paratroopers were take them from you as you had not earned them yet. My dad is long gone but I wear his wings on a chain around my neck every day. he enlisted on Dec. 9th, 1941, 2 days after the Pearl Harbor attack.

[@jharris0341]

Respect to your father.

[@anthonymiller8979]

@@jharris0341 Thank you Jim

[@joelglanton6531]

Good thing your dad fought for Zionism so the U.S. and Europe can be flooded with "refugees" and men can wear skirts in the military.

[@Pvt.Conscriptovich]

God bless him!

[@LeroOfTheKodiak]

I wear my grandpa's Vietnam jump wings on my cowboy hat band now that he's gone.

[@madwagon9775]

I have a black pair of these that I wear with my dress blues. That's really where these boots shine (literally). Polished and shined, they look great. They're lightyears ahead of the stupid gloss plastic low-quarters you get issued. If you want a similar jump boot aesthetic in a modern military duty boot, the Marauder from Corcoran or any of the cap toe options from Bumu in Korea are the way to go.

[@joshm3484]

You wear boots in your blues? Really?

[@USSEnterpriseA1701]

I've been wearing one Corcoran boot or another since about halfway through highschool which was over ten years ago after I borrowed my dad's pair from his time in the Rangers in the 80's for a dress event. I've had the black version of the ones that were cut apart here and they were radically different than these brown ones. The insole was completely different and had a fabric covering and I could tell there was much less foam in the insole. I tend to prefer the field boot version that has a full Vibram sole and much less coated leather except on the toe and heel caps. Right now though the boots I use the most at work are the Marauders which have an even more modern sole on them and are almost a hybrid of the jump boot and jungle boot. I managed to pick up two pairs in the old Air Force sage green for about $80 each as they were being discontinued and I have the desert tans with steel toes for heavier work. I'm sure my dad will be a long with his opinion on the boots before long, he's dusting off his pair from the 80's as I type this. We can't bring ourselves to get rid of that old pair even though they are now too small for either of us.

[@ericdeer5887]

@@joshm3484bloused, was typical for anyone on airborne status when I was in (early 90’s)

[@madwagon9775]

@@joshm3484 Yep. I've never much cared for oxford type shoes. I much prefer the fit and feel of boots. And thankfully, black dress boots, plain or capped toe, are authorized for service dress in the Air Force. Airmen in certain fields, like TACPs and PJs can also blouse their dress pants with them, but the rest of us booger pickers can't.

[@madwagon9775]

@@ericdeer5887 This still holds true.

[@DBLt4p]

I have a vintage pair of these my grandfather wore in the Korean war. They are too small for any of the dudes in my family to be able to wear, so if you would be interested in an old vs new comparison, I'd be happy to send them to get cut in half.

[@TimRHillard]

Even though I was a tanker in the Army, I had a few pairs of black jump boots I used as my dress boots, when I need to look really, really good. They polished so easily, if you worked on them a bit, you could literally see yourself in the toe. Fantastic boots really, decent comfortable as well.

[@moosestache1769]

I have a pair of them from 2006 that I still wear in my dress uniform.

[@joelglanton6531]

Your chain of command must have been so jacked to allow that

[@JMark-zk5pj]

What happened, you bolo tank table 8 and couldnt wear tanker boots?

[@JMark-zk5pj]

They were authorized army wide.@@joelglanton6531

[@centurion2275]

​@JMark-zk5pj they don't make tanker boots in black anymore. And they never did in heritage brown.

[@patrickdahm6822]

I have two pairs of these, black and brown, both required for my Army dress uniforms. I agree with your assessment of these being a “cosplay” boot; although the Army still uses these, they just need an extreme shine for ceremonial wear.

[@martiniv8924]

My father (British NCO ) in WW2 coveted a pair of American Jump boots, he traded a British “Great Coat” for the boots

[@Eledaraumar]

I wore 2 different pairs of Corcoran jump boots, a pair of marauders and a pair of tankers on duty over the course of 7 years or so. LOVED them all. If you want a combat/tactical boot that will take a nice shine and hold up to a beating, then these are them.

[@jmc0369]

I wish corcoran would bring back the 4500. Thats the desert jump boot that was 100% roughout, unlike the marauders which i also had.

[@steelloki]

Just gonna say this but that island isn't Sicily it's Corsica, Sicily is below the tip of Italy

[@rjrj3601]

they totally missed Holland as well. but Americans are never that good at European geography. at least they got the countries correct

[@fallenasleep7247]

Eh the holland one is a technicality isn’t it? I assume he was using Holland to mean the Netherlands as a whole, which is a pretty common usage even outside the US

[@juliaf_]

@@fallenasleep7247 it's still wrong though. It's like calling all Americans yanks or rednecks - sure it's common, but that doesn't make it right

[@ЗакатРассвет-ы2ж]

he's a lil dimwitted

[@unclegrandfather1]

My wife is Corsican…Corsica is 100% French, although they will say that they are not, just like Sicily is 100% Italian, although they will say they are not. Corsica has way more in common with Italy, but don’t try to tell them that! 🥰

[@mitchellsmith4690]

We used to break them in by filling them with hot water then wearing then until they were dry. We would strip them with lighter fluid, then give them a thorough brush shine 3 times in a row, then set about giving them the "highly shined" (spit shine) finish.

[@SuperTrb0]

When we wore these (in black), in the mid 90s, we wore them with insoles that we trimmed to fit. Which makes them more comfortable. These were a dress boot that we wore with certain uniforms, our field boots were often different. A lot of guys wore the basic Altama jungle boot style boots when out in the field. That said some of the old hats did wear these kinds of jump boots out in the field. I personally found them to be hot, heavy and uncomfortable after a few days in the field. A cheap pair of Altamas worked fine for me.

[@dscott501]

When I was in basic training and AIT in 1978 all the drill sergeants wore Corcorans. Many of us trainees saved up and bought them at the PX so we could look cool like our sergeants. I’m sure the quality was better then; I had no problems with mine.

[@nunyabusiness4904]

When I tried to get my modern production Jump Boots resoled my local cobbler told me I'd be better off just tossing them and buying a vintage pair. Vintage ones still had leather welts while modern ones have nylon welts that crack and then don't take resoling very well.

[@pabloplaysguitar]

Haha when I was in AIT (2014) all the sergeants had Rocky's, but one sergeant was always so squared away. He won all the competitions, chest candy for days, and was just a chill dude. He had Nike's so I got those too. They were by far the comfiest boots I tried at the PX, but they fell apart when I started rucking every day for EMFB training. I found these Corcoran's for $120 on US Patriot so I think that's more than a fair price. I have custom inserts and ordered brown laces on Amazon, so pretty excited to use these as casuals on the civilian side. Everything back in the day was higher quality, I wouldn't mind paying a bit more if they were higher quality like the originals

[@Winterfell1066]

I agree. I think they must have been better then. I joined in 80 and went to basic at Ft. McClellan. All the Cadre had Corcoran jump boots. I bought a pair and wore them for years.

[@davidbutler8096]

@@Winterfell1066 Small world, I went to McClellan in '82. Still have the Corcorans I bought there in '83. Sadly...I can't even get my feet in them now.

[@summerwind4590]

I had two pairs of them and they did a lot of walking, and the Munson last is by far one of the most comfortable forms that I have come across in 15 years of wearing work boots. Sport to see they cheaper out on other materials. I wish more manufacturers made their boots on the Munson last

[@dichoseadepaso]

in Chile we were issued Black Corcoran-type boots until a couple years ago. They were amazing, i remember buying those as a kid in the Army Surplus store for 10 bucks and they lasted until the sole was completely gone in at least 3-4 years. i recently bought a pair and the quality is still amazing. 2.5mm high quality leather, the sole is like an inch thick pvc rubber and you dont even have to break them in.

[@grahamhardin8]

I’ve been waiting for this video for a while and it’s finally here!!!! I had a vintage pair from the 70’s that my grandfather gave me. They were falling apart so I took them apart to see how they were made. I learned a lot and the first boots I made were patterned after them. They had biltrite rubber, a leather board midsole (which broke), and a leather board filler instead of cork.

[@PerfectTangent]

Back in the day, essentially before all the GWOT money brought new manufacturers to the scene, if you were a soldier with wider feet these were amazing. Jungle boots were great, but for garrison wear you couldn't beat the Corcoran comfort. Their soles sucked in the field and on ice, but in a modern context they really only exist in the Army as a dress boot. I'd offer that they lack an insole because many soldiers prefer to use their own choice of replaceable ones, and we also tend to wear thick socks.

[@jayschu81]

My jump boots were always incredibly uncomfortable to wear because the soles were like rocks. Loved my jungle boots so much I think I had to have them resoled 3 times.

[@schain7328]

i loved mine. they were the first readily available footwear i could find that were wider than the standard wide, twenty years ago-before widespread internet commerce. unfortunately, the soles would always split across the width, just behind the front sole, after a couple of years. back then, i didn't know i could get them resoled.

[@killaken2000]

when I was in there was always a cobbler in town so you could choose a softer sole or something better for wherever I was stationed. I never had a pair of jungle boots. Corcoran jump boots were my go to. I also have wide feet so maybe that's partly why I liked them so much.

[@geodes4762]

The interesting thing is that most guys in airborne units back in the 70s and 80s never jumped with “jump boots”. Most of us only used these in garrison as they were too expensive to screw up the toes on jumps. A good old pair of nasty looking leg boots were the preferred boot for jumps!

[@CAP198462]

I was disappointed with my pair. Way back in the day Corcoran jump boots were mythologised. Years later I got a pair because, hey why not, see what all the fuss was about. They were nothing special at all, not extremely comfortable or painful, just a pair of boots that took a long time to lace up. Never meet your heroes, 🤷‍♂️.

[@MrSteak]

I have a pair of Corcoran Plain Toe 10" Leather Combat Boots I've been wearing DAILY since 2004. The leather coating has come off a bit on the toes, but they're holding up amazingly after 18 years.

[@romile55]

I did 20 years in the Army retiring in 2009 and this was a tough boot to break in, but you can get a good shine out of em. A much better option was the Corcoran marauder boots

[@nick-cb6dl]

When I was in the army 02-07, I had these boos, but in black. These were by far the easiest to shine, and looked great when in dress uniform. These boots were the most uncomfortable, and god help you if the pavement was wet, every step felt like you were on ice. The nostalgic of the boot is nice, but I stuck to Corcoran 2 boots or the Altima jungle boot with the waffle sole. Thanks for bringing back the memories!

[@myjourneytomaine9489]

As a owner of a pair of these boots, I can say that the quality has gone down once Carolina acquired Corcoran. If you're going to buy a pair, which I do recommend, look for a NOS pair or lightly used pair of the older production ones. One of the biggest benefits of these is the wide range of sizes available since these were made for the military.

[@achillesdanieladam9486]

When Carolina bought it?

[@dstrbd223]

@@achillesdanieladam9486 Yes

[@BARgunner_]

I have owned a pair of corcoran jump boots for going on 8 years. I am a WW2 reenactor and use them for that but I also use them for my daily wear and they have lasted me 8 years and still going strong. I wore them for snow removal, roofing and many more jobs. Not the best work boot but they have lasted me forever and love them. Cool to see the inside of the boot. Great video!

[@irishinctech254]

A little tidbit which may explain some of the thoughts put behind this boot. Brown Leather Jump Boots are used for Airborne and Air Assault footwear for Class A Green Dress Uniforms.

[@riviera289]

I got a pair of marauders on the recommendation of some vet friends and they're the most comfortable boots I've ever owned. They're definitely more tactitcool than the leather styles, but they felt great right out of the box

[@johnsteele2986]

I too have been asking for these for weeks and you confirmed all my suspicions about them and the drop in quality. Fun fact, William Yarborough also designed the jungle uniform worn in vietnam, which was based on the m42 paratrooper uniform, and also had a hand in testing and perfecting the famous jungle boots as well!

[@AndricKelton]

Yeah I actually bought some of these my freshman year of highschool in 2014. I can tell that the leather is alot more poor compared. I remember the leather being so stiff you could balance a 6 pack of soda. The only thing I hate is the synthetic sole and the pigment but they look alot better now ofter nearly a decade of use

[@johnsteele2986]

@@AndricKelton I've worn corcorans on and off for almost 20 years and over that time I had old 70s and 80s vintage ones through to modern trash and the older ones were definitely better quality, better leather and sole components. I think the old ones were veg or chrome tanned not painted.

[@1pcfred]

I've had knock off jungle boots and they're OK in a tropical climate. It's a smart design. Those drain ports.

[@AndricKelton]

@@johnsteele2986 I was just explaining that even just recently, corcorans have went even more downhill. I have seen originals at reenactments and they are incomparable to the new ones. I would if he will cut originals in halfs.

[@geodkyt]

​@@AndricKeltonYeah, when I was wearing black jump boots in garrison, I could wear them with effectively no break in. Wearing the brown Corocrans for WWII displays and parachute demos, they need all the Old School break in of soak 'em and wear 'em until dry-ish. I think the change in leather and the difficulty in getting a uniform brown color (as opposed to how you can generally get a uniform black color pretty easily by just leaving them in the dye longer) results in the leather being stiffer, in addition to that heavy paint. But it sure felt like the old black Corcoran leather was also *harder* in addition to not being quite as stiff, and I don't know if that was more due to the processing, or just theybused to use higher grade, tighter grain leather.

[@marcelschultz4033]

I had one of those for several years, those were manufactured in the 90 (corcoran jump boot repro in brown). Those boots had thicker leather, the insole was leather, the outsole was better quality leather. Although the leather was quite heavily coated also, the substance of it underneath was better. I stripped the coating with acetone and put on some lights dark brown pigmented care products, which gave a very nice patina. Those boots were so comfotable, in part because of the munson last which gives so much space for the toes. Its a shame that corcoran did such a sell out of their boots. I had a pair of their black jump boot style combat boots back than, with a lug sole. Those had good leather but the insole was foam. At least it was some higher grade poron material like you could find in the old altama boots. With altama its the same. Had a pair of 90s leather army leather boots - very good leather, thick and pliable, vulcanized sole, the insole was actually leather. On top of it there was a thin removeable insole of poron foam which was suprisingly ok for what it was. The newer version of the boots made around 2010 after altama was bought by another company had terrible leather, the shoes were horrendously warped and the insole/lasting board was some paper board. I'am a little bit speechless, how bad these shoes have become. But its a problem which can be observed with so many brands. The materials get cheaper, the construction lacks in so many ways. On top of it some marketing specialists think its a good idea to put a piece of foam at least under your heel, I suppose to appeal to the sneaker waring faction - its just uncomfortable and a disgrace to a well made boot/shoe.

[@modeyman101]

I have had a pair for a couple years. The foam hasn’t given me any issues and the boots look really nice once they get worn in. It’s a cool old style that looks good with the right outfit.

[@tomcoyle7365]

Still have mine. I love and polish them periodically, just to keep fresh 16 years of memories and the best fraternity one can ever be a part of. AATW!

[@moplum]

I bought my first pair of Corcoran jump boots in 1983 for $42 at the clothing sales store. I wore Corcoran brand jump boots my entire Army career of 20 years. I followed along with your video while looking at my last pair of jump boots. Except for the color (black) and the laces, they look exactly the same. I was always buying new boots. Jump boots didn’t hold ip very well. For example the entire toe flew off my boot during Desert Storm when I tripped on a tent steak. The other pair the sole was gone from the sand eating it up. I think the newer brown suede Army issue boots appear to look much better. Although I have never worn them. You should cut up a pair of the new Army boots to compare.

[@E_Legal_Alien]

Corcoran jump boots have 82 stitches on the inside of the sole and 101 stitches on the outside as a nod to the 82nd and 101st Airborne Division’s actions during World War II

[@santiagocantuborjas9060]

I bought my first Corcoran Jump Boots in 1986 going through my advanced training and after they were broken in they were a comfortable boot to ware every day. I replaced my Corcorans every three years to about three and a half years. They were great boots to have and you can get one hell of a shine after a really good spit shine.

[@wompa70]

Sad to hear these aren't built like they used to be. I got a pair of these (in black, of course) when I got to my first assignment at Ft Hood in 1990. I also had a pair of Corcoran's field boots. The toe and heel caps were the same but the rest of the leather was thicker but softer than the jump boots.

[@swm40245]

Thank you for another great boot review. I wore a pair of Double H brand jump boots in service which I bought 31 years ago and I’m still wearing them. They need a new sole but the uppers are still in excellent condition.

[@henkjanbaan]

Thanks for the review! I own three different Corcorans. The ones you just reviewed our very uncomfortable, the old black ones (i own a pair from the 60’s) are very comfy. Best are the textile ones you show on the end. Those also come in camo green and are my favorite boot overall, they have non steel shanks. Greetz from NL

[@gdirkjan]

Leuk hier een mede-Nederlander te treffen 👊

[@allisfiction1599]

I have a black pair and they have severed me well. I have used them for hiking, lite work and for long walks and have not failed. The leather has held up in dry heat and in cold rain. My favorite boot got it for $150 and is still going strong.

[@charlesbarry7479]

I preferred the USAF issued steel toed work boots for my daily wear when I was in the service. They were hard to break in but were fairly comfortable and really durable. They also took a good shine.

[@donwyoming1936]

The steel toed boots we got prior to 1994 were very comfortable. Then we started getting the cap toed lineman boots. Shined up nicely, but they were so hard on the feet! Tough boot though.

[@TimKline]

I wore my steel toes from 76 to 96, and then for 19 years for the airlines. Pre 80 we got the Chuca boots, then aircrew boots.. They were great to kick chock's out from the tires.

[@scott88]

I just saw these in a store over the weekend. I could not believe they were still being made. As a paratrooper (82d Airborne Fco 782 MSB 1997-2002). These boots shined up real good. They looked good when we wore our Class A uniforms. But for comfort (for me) I hated them. So, uncomfortable, clunky, feet hurt everytime I wore them, even after 5 years with the same pair. I was so happy to get rid of them when I got out of the Army. When I saw them in the store (this past weekend) my back literally told my brain "no". And that is after being out of the Army over 20 years.

[@Deovindice1918]

I’ve had a pair of these exact boots for about 3 years now. I’ve used them for re-enacting and just kicking around in. I’ve also jumped out of a WWII C-47 with them as well. They’ve lasted well through everything I’ve put them through and have not seen any change in quality since I’ve had them.

[@bpeyman68]

Since these boots play a big role in wwii reenacting, it would be interesting to see how these boots compare to other re-enacting brands.

[@JMark-zk5pj]

Those would not pass authenticity, they are for the modern class A uniform. WW2 jump boots had black soles for starts.

[@michaelavesato2360]

I think it’s the Munson last that makes them popular with people who buy them they do last very long and are very comfortable.

[@Totemparadox]

Absolutely. I sold both my Nicks for a Munson lasted boot.

[@Jason-hv4eu]

I was with the 1/501 Parachute Infantry Regiment back in the 90’s. We wore these with our class A dress uniforms. I still have my original boots, Class As and beret. My jump boots are not even broke in because we hardly ever wore them. However, I wore out multiple pairs of leg boots. Airborne!

[@edgarcardiel157]

I do wwii reenacting, The jump boot was used up to the 90s when the modern combat boot was implemented and is whats used today. The jump boot changed colors and minor construction differences but was used longer than wwii. Also we use the repro corcorans and for actual intense use they hold up, altho their construction leaves something to be desired. Originals werent lined and had the traditional leather footbed too

[@pedp3ng535]

glad to see this series back. It would be cool to see a WW1 boot too

[@ottodotbot]

I think this is maybe the 5th video of yours I've asked for this on, and I'm sorry/not sorry ....but will you PLEASE do a video on the widely-available-at-surplus-stores US Army black boot? Biltrite soles, steel cap, with the ANSI Z41 1991 or 1983 certification on the inside of the tongue. I've worn these boots for years and in my experience they're some of the most durable and affordable (second hand or even new old stock they're $50-100) and still widely available boots out there...and vintage!

[@Dremeli]

I bought black Corcorans some years ago and I agree the leather is not excellent as it has thick coating in it. After some use the coating cracks and looks terrible. Don't get me wrong, I love those boots, they are comfortable and look great. Wish the leather was better.

[@jimbeglinger]

Wore a few pair of, dare I say, original Corcoran's, after jump school at Ft Benning, GA. Served with both the 82nd Airborne & 101st Airborne from '67-'70 during my 3 year hitch. I enlisted Airborne unassigned, and the Army sent me to MP school. We took white candle wax and melted it on the top caps then heated it with a Bunsen burner to get it to penetrate and saturate the leather. The resulting spit-shine was spectacular. When I returned from Viet Nam, I bought a pair from the PX at the Oakland Army Terminal and all the "legs" gathered around to watch me prep the boots for my next duty assignment.

[@Postmortumaz]

When I was Army the black version of those boots were for inspections and parades because they keep a shine. Corcoran II was used in the field.

[@Shaboomquisa]

my great great uncle was col sink late general sink of the 506 airborne. they made a show about his regiment band of brothers

[@jackjmaheriii]

I am shocked and offended… Rose should have used Blood on the Risers for the into song. How could you?! Great video, and great channel!!!

[@TylerSnyder305]

I stripped the coating off my Corcoran jump boots and conditioned them and I like them more, but still do not really like them very much at all. I just find the leather very stiff even after I stripped the coating off and gave them lots and lots of conditioners. Load of Obenauffs and neatsfoot oil, and it didn't help much. I thought they were going to be a good iron ranger substitute when I was interested in the iron ranger ( I no longer am ), but ended up relegating them to yard work. Cutting wood, trimming the tree...ect, they have become beaters for me. That being said they do clean up nice. I bought mine 2 years ago, and they were just under $200.

[@123457chevy]

How did you strip the coating off?

[@TylerSnyder305]

@@123457chevy I used citristrip, a safe citrus based paint stripper. Acetone is the common method for stuff like this, but the hardware store was out and I had the citristrip on hand so I used it.

[@mhollman8650]

My grandfather Lt Andrew Carrico served in the 511 PIR. He jumped into Leyte with that boot. Thank you

[@R.J._Lewis]

I wear a pair of coyote brown steel-toe Corcoran Marauders for work every day. I have tried several different brands of boot for uniform wear, and they are always the best. I decided to buy a pair of the jump boots exactly like the ones you cut in half here and I was a little disappointed by them as well. They are sturdy enough, but the leatherboard, the outer coating, and the foam inside not being covered all seemed to be corners that were cut. I was hoping for a near exact replica of the old jump boots. I got boots with cut corners. I still wear them occasionally, but they are not what I hoped for.

[@colonelbitter5431]

Had a black pair, 1979 during OCS training. Easy to polish and easy maintenance. Comfortable for our 5mile runs before breakfast.

[@MozambiqueEnjoyer6097]

I'd hate to have been your feet SIr.

[@dsb1763]

Cosplay, what a great call. These were a revival when GEN Milley wanted a new Army uniform to get away from the Army Service Uniform (the Blues) and returned to the WWII era uniform of AGSU.

[@sharonglowka2603]

I have a pair of original official Vietnam Corcoran jump boots they are made way better back then . Mine have a super Thick leather insoule

[@ehauswirth]

I think it would interesting to compare to a WWII vintage version, or the black ones, since I agree these look like a cosplay boot, but at this point thats all the black ones may be as well since the US Army went to rough out tan boots. I wore them in the army both at day to day boots for a short time and then dress boots with class As when I was reassigned to an airborne unit and they were real comfortable for all day garrison wear and the ease of keeping them shined was a bonus. So to keep them pristine for garrison you'd switch to something else for the field. I never went to jump school but most people I knew just jumped in their regular boots and by the time I got to the airborne unit we had switched to wearing the desert boots so the corcorans were just for dress wear.

[@johnvassallo2937]

Bought my first pair at Ft. Benning 1966. These boots were part of the dress uniform if you were a paratrooper (assigned to an airborne unit) along with an overseas cap. It was a distinctive look. One feature worth mentioning is that the heel was tapered on an angle so as not to catch on the edge of the door when jumping.

[@Maximusprimeatyahoo]

I have the black pair for 10+ years and had the shaft cut down to 6 inches and they have held up great. They’re my version of the poor man’s Redwings Iron Ranger.

[@jfruser]

RED WING WORK BOOTS: I would love to see some contemporary Red Wing work boots (not heritage) cut in half. Especially those with Supersole 1.0 & permanent Poron insole like the 2233, 953, 2245, 1105, 2231. Those have been a staple for the last few decades. Maybe not as sylist as the heritage boots, but more likely to be bought for work.

[@kenfury]

I had the black version of this one. It lasted 8 years. It wasn’t the most comfortable. I also had the side zip field boot, bought those twice. The sole completely separated from the boots when hiking in hot weather, then the back of the boot would dig into my heel making them unwearable. Got another pair and sold them as well due to them just not fitting well. Bought another pair of the field boots without the side zip. The leather was thinner but I felt the shank in my left boot. Sold those. Then bought Bates paratrooper boots and those are much better. The leather is more supple and you can insert your own insole, which makes them more comfortable. Thanks for reviewing these boots. I love the design.

[@babscondo9957]

Ghostbusters everywhere thank you for finally reviewing these boots!!

[@davidbutler8096]

Carolina now owns Corcoran. They used to be made in Massachusetts...now they are made in Pennsylvania. Corcoran sold the business in the 90's. I still have my originals from 1983. Sadly...they don't fit my foot anymore.

[@andymittelman4022]

As a former Army Paratrooper thank you and these were the most uncomfortable boots ever! I got the old black ones in 1990. I never jumped in my jump boots, I always jumped in Vietnam era jungle boots except in Airborne School I wore the basis issue boot. They are only for show now to wear with the class A uniform.

[@jdblack9703]

I wore black ones like these, now and then, from 1970-1974. I usually wore them with dress blues when standing inspection. They took a great spit shine after a few hours of work. I used Kiwi, cotton balls, a tooth brush, and an old tee shirt for the shine. I did not use fire to melt the polish. Over 90% of the time I wore the original issued boots or chukka boots. The original issued boots were the most comfortable, but I wore good black padded sole boot socks too. The socks made a big difference.

[@cappinkrieg9773]

I have a pair of their seemingly discontinued 1525 jump boots, it's a more modern boot with an insole liner, no heavy finish on the entire boot, (its only on the toe cap and heel) speed eyelets like more modern combat boots and Vibram outsoles. I've worn them daily for 2 years on and off of work, and they're still holding up pretty well. I love Corcoran but, hate to see the quality and the diversity of products go away.

[@Denzlercs]

I was in an Airborne unit in the USMC from April 98 to May 99. I bought a pair of black Corcoran Jump Boots. They were very comfortable. They fit my foot very well and offered great ankle support. I didn’t jump in them though. They looked too good and I wore them for nicer occasions. They spit shined up very well. Overall I would give them a very high rating as best my memory serves from over 20 years ago.

[@caldwell5078]

My first pair of these jump boots were issued to me in 1993! They were the most comfortable and long-lasting boots I ever had!

[@kahun78]

I wear a pair of these boots for work. I have a very wide foot with very low arches and me feet sweat like they owe money. I'm on concrete all day in a mechanic shop and these are the most comfortable boots I've been able to find for the price. The lack of lining helps keep my feet dry. It's very cool to see them cut in half. Edited to add that mine are the black version. They are a bit cheaper and I did strip the finish from the leather so that they can be properly oiled.

[@dogleg6669]

These were always my goto boot while I was in the Army. Black ones while we were in the BDU uniform and the tan rough out in DCU and ACU's best longest lasting combat boots I ever used. My son has a pair of black now as an active duty airborne infantry man, for dress uniform wear.

[@20yearolddoomer39]

The video I’ve always been waiting for.

[@appalachianflute2222]

I've worn the black jump boot for years hiking and teaching primitive survival to recruits. I had a brown pair but they were a regular instead of wide so I gave them away after hiking 300 miles in them. I still wear jump boots everyday for farm work and plan to get another brown pair soon

[@terkish]

I was issued Corcoran Jump Boots in 1986 when assigned to the Fort Sill Salute Battery. They weren't particularly comfortable but did take a decent spit shine for ceremonial purposes. The boots in the video look like a much lower quality version.

[@markg2631]

wore a black pair of these as a "Wagonmaster" (paddy wagon driver) in Law Enforcement..... great for climbing in and out of the 1 ton van i used .... very comfortable to wear for ten hours...had them resoled several times before they finally gave up the ghost...

[@ahill209]

I was Army parachutist and I wore Cocorans for several years, but didn't like the smooth soles grip in snow and ice. I ended up buying a pair of German paratrooper boots which had vibram soles and those were amazing boots. In addition to having speed laces, the German boot soles were much better when ground conditions were icy, snowing, or muddy. Yeah, the soles were a pain to clean coming out of the field if it was muddy, and they tended to collect small rocks or pebbles, but the comfort and convenience of the German boots trumped those negatives. I wore those boots for 15 years after I left active duty as my yard work boots. I wear Thorogoods now.

[@chromaticstatic568]

I have the Corcoran 1500 Original Jump Boots (black, $190), been loving them since I got them earlier this year, definitely my best footwear; however, admittedly most of my footwear is half their price. I’m fairly certain mine have a cloth layer over the foam inserts, which is interesting considering they’re less expensive than these brown ones. Also you forgot to mention once the boot was cut in half: yes, they have a true cap toe with double leather layers. For that alone, I think they’re worth $190. That, plus the steel shank and overall style still make them my favorite choice in their price range. Was disappointing to hear how poor the leather quality is from a leather expert tho. Please tell me it’s at least better than Doc Martens leather lol!

[@JRRob3wn]

I used to have the black version of this boot about 12 years ago before I knew anything about boots. I used it as a military duty boot. Yes the foam insole was very annoying, the heel section kept peeling up and spots wore away where my toes sat. The leather was mediocre but held up fine. My biggest problem was the sole which gave no traction whatsoever. In the winter I would basically go ice skating through the parking lot wearing these things. They were actually pretty comfortable, but better suited for the office (military) or casual wear due to the lack of a grippy sole.

[@williamj3843]

These boots look like they took a big nose dive in all regards. I have a pair I bought at the Army uniform shop about 25 years ago that have a Vibram sole and a durable insole. I wore them for several years in uniform and they are still in decent shape.

[@michaelgross7016]

I wore a highly spit shined pair of black corcorans my last 4 years as a cop, and I have the brown ww2 ones for casual wear. I love them. They are all broken in and conformed to my feet. Me and corcoran go way back. I wore corcoran tanker boots when I was in the army. These were like jump boots but no laces; leather straps with buckles instead. spit shined of course. My brown boots cost about 150 dollars 4 years ago . I dont wear it as a work boot or a tactical boot. It's a nice casual boot. Real nice. very comfortable and great support. I oiled them a couple times. I polish them with brown kiwi. I dont spit shine them. I use brown edge dressing on the edges of sole. They still look new. actually better than new. a casual, old school, proper foot support boot.

[@SYBEX21]

I bought a pair back in 2000 when I started WWII reenacting. My boots are no were near as cheep as the ones you are reviewing, they have fallen a long way. I have Jumped, went to Normandy in them and put many mile in PT. My Souls were preplaced (I had a cobbler do it and strip the coating off) Still my favorit boot I have ever owned. Yes since this is a strict WWII replica I had added a insert and with wool socks they are hard wearing and agil for what they were ment to be a work boot.

[@kd5byb]

I just bought a vintage pair of these off of the e-Place for not much money in second-hand nearly new condition. Definitely the leather is coated and feels "plasticy", but mine don't have the poron foam layers and seem to have a leather insole. Having wide feet and some freaky toes (I've broken at least three) the Munson last with the wide toe box is AMAZING. Looks sort of "clownish" maybe, but VERY comfortable. I'm 11 to 11.5 on the Brannock and got these in an 11 "E" width and they are quite comfy. For what I paid, I'm happy! Had I paid full retail, I wouldn't be happy!

[@dageekster292]

Hello all, My only pair of Corcoran boots were bought in 1989 for my Senior year of HS. ROTC on a Army base in Germany. I still wear these boots i get them resoled every 3-4 years. I use Saddle soap and shaving cream to clean and strip off polish every month. I will either use Parade Gloss made by Kiwi or Lincoln Stain Wax. I now use them 3 days a week for work and when I go out on my motorcycle. I prefer the Vibram as a resole. From 1990 to 2000 I only used them for parades or Inspections. I was in the Infantry for 10 years and served me well during that time. You also have to understand that using these boots that you purchase your own insole as most wear out within 3 months of heavy use.

[@1pcfred]

I've had genuine military surplus Corcoran jump boots and they're not what we're seeing here. Mine were black. They were pretty decent but one day hiking in upstate Maine in a swamp a heel fell off. They were done then. Other than that though I liked them. Those boots were like boots to me.

[@shadymaint1]

Loved my Corcoran jump boots. Mine were black. Had them resoled with a Vibram sole for a little more traction. The smooth sole got pretty scary in the winter.

[@geraldleatherman1899]

As an Airborne Infantrymen for just over a decade and when I first say the thumbnail, it broke my heart thinking about you cutting these in half! Now knowing it's the new version, it takes the sting out. Have been lucky enough to handle the original WW2 and try on a set, I can say that the new ones are definitely different. The new ones are just used for parades and looming good. Nobody wears them for "work".

[@ms.annthrope415]

I bought a pair of Corcorans after reporting to my first assignment. It was a testing g and evaluation post and not a combat post so no one cared that i was not a paratrooper or airborne qualified wearing Corcorans. But they looked so much better, taking a great shine with the shiny toe caps and heel counter. They are also higher than regular issued black leather boots so they looked bigger and cleaner. They gave good support and were comfortable once broken in.

[@georgecampbell2279]

I have a black pair from the 90's. I did ceremonial detail and wore them every time. They looked sharp.

[@DaveRogers1985]

Not long found the WW2 boot series. Love it. You may already have done it (and ive not found it yet) but a current military issue boots from various countries would be a good series

[@Threedog92]

A comparison of different reproductions of this and other ww2 boots would be great. Especially the quality differences between US made and China made (or other countrys).

[@sysop007]

Ive had many pair of the black military issue ones over the years with various sole patterns and loved them and wanted the brown Corcoran paratroop version. Only issue with the older black USGI boots I’ve had is the exposed leather sole cracked (between the heel and main tread pattern) on one pair so now I moisturize that section when cleaning but I found a pair of WW2 vintage jump boots in my size but the rubber had sadly hardened to a rock. So I got a pair of these new ones knowing i had work to do and I do like them and still own them. Breaking them in (bathtub) and darkening with fieblings was the work to get the final worn and darker used appearance I was looking for.

[@ericpensyl5578]

These are made about 20 minutes from my house. They have an outlet store that sells them for half price… if you don’t mind driving to pennsylvaina.

[@AlexMPruteanu]

As always, great video. Your channel is among my 3 or 4 faves and always go to it whenever you put up a new video. I've learned everything I needed to learn from you and Stridewise. So I'm so happy to see that you both got together and put out a couple of vids.

[@ArdennesEindhoven]

When I was in the 82nd (88-92), we basically only wore our jump boots with class A’s or for ceremonies. Jungle boots were the standard work boots. 2/325 Airborne Infantry Regiment.

[@utilityaccount8514]

Put in an insole and have a vibram lug sole added, should last about three years of hard everyday use but without oiling that leather dries and cracks too easily. Excellent ergonomics for an application that requires a lot of running. For the longest time they were the only thing you could buy that weren't shaped liked women's shoes.

[@therabbithole-sn5yb]

Awesome video, thanks for the information. Back in the 90s I was a WWII re-enactor so I've owned most of the WWII boots you've been doing, I did have a couple pair of original jump boots, as well as the 3/4 boots & double buckle boots, & yes my jump boots were my favorite boots, they were very durable & comfortable, as well. They were also better made that those. They didn't have much of an in sole, but at least it was leather rather than foam. But I was very lucky to find them because the were unissued surplus, so even though they were 50yrs old at the time, they were also brand new. They were great boots.

[@ssnydess6787]

In the 82nd, we only wore our jump boots for parades and inspections. We jumped in jungle boots that were more supportive and comfortable. The Corcoran's were for history and lineage, like our blood jump wings. We never took them to combat, just parades! Hooo Ahhhh!!

[@Kingofthepnwdorks]

This model of boot is still available in black for airborne qualified soldiers when wearing their blues (or pinks and greens now in this color) but they aren’t expected to hold up any longer in comparison to a regular ACU boot. They sell a flesh out version as well but many boots that are AR670-1 compliant are a lot better. The flesh out version would now be what would be considered “garrison boots”

[@benc1031]

My inlaws bought me a pair of the brown Corcoran Jump boots 20 years ago this year (I believe they had a $150~ price tag in 2004), and I am still wearing them to this day. I will say that there are noticeable differences between my pair and the modern Carolina version. The stitching on the welt on the modern ones is highly defective; however, the stitching 20 years ago is a grade above. They are very comfortable for all day wear and I have had these boots all over the American southeast without issue. In regards to how long they will last, I'll update everyone in 20 years.

[@MrCodyWarner]

I wore these my entire Air Force career. I was an aircraft mechanic and they held up extremely well.

[@corneliusbrandy2557]

I've had 3 pairs of corcorans I've found that the older pairs that were still made by cove shoe are definitely a better quality that thr new ones made by carolina shoe. But at the same time they're both great for riding my motorcycle.

[@genek8630]

I agree when Cove shoe company made Corcoran boots they were a lot better.

[@willghormley221]

I bought my first pair of Corcoran Jump Boots while I was still in Army Jump School. I didn't lace them on until after I'd pinned on my blood wings. I wore them for daily service and in the field. They took a nice spit-shine for wear with my Class A uniform as well. Eventually I had them resoled with Vibram lugged soles. That made them MUCH better for field duty. After my 12 years of service I took up the hobby of historical reenactments. Or as I refer to it, immersive anthropology. One of the eras I recreated was of a WWII Paratrooper. I got all my uniform and kit, including brown Corcoran Jump Boots and a folding wire stocked M1 Carbine. The brown Corcorans have the foam insole. But I routinely marched them cross country for years (my daily routine is a four mile airborne shuffle around a lake). The foam never degraded. But as my knees got older, I had to switch to wearing my Belleville C320s. Those I can jog the four miles in under an hour in.