Bates Lights boots at OCS

A short primer

2009–Yes

Bates Lights were used and were “kosher” for any and all events when I attended OCS. They were especially useful for the E-Course, but were disallowed or discouraged on the O-Course since they have terrible traction on the rope.

2011–Banned?

Bates Lights were disallowed from OCS totally, according to multiple sources.

“I am going to OCS on May 27 this year. I figured I’d let you know that Bates Lights are not allowed this year. I figured you could change your information to keep it as up to date as possible. I purchased a pair of Bates Hotweather Durashocks to take with me. Just wanted to let you know, if you want to update your blog.”

2012–They’re Back!

From a candidate yesterday to me:

“Bates Lites and all USMC regulation boots are authorized for wear at OCS. Upon arrival, candidates are issued both hot-weather and
cold-weather boots of various brands including but not limited to Bates, Belleville, Danner, and Altama. The website is up-to-date and includes tips on purchasing boots prior to arrival. It is strongly encouraged that candidates begin to break-in regulation boots prior to shipping to OCS to prevent blisters and other boot-related injuries during training.”

This is a reply email i received from Coordinator of Student Activities OCS this morning, answering my question about Bates Lights.

Multiple candidates who just spoke with Sergeant Instructors this past weekend confirmed: Bates Lites are allowed.

Advice (reiterated)

Candidates are issued a pair each of jungles and ICBs. ICB stands for Infantry Combat Boot, and is a good heavier duty boot with a thicker sole.

I suggest breaking in a pair of Bates lights boots, and keeping one pair of boots clean and perfect for inspections.  You can use the Bates on runs and for PT, especially for when you’re going to get your feet wet (they drain well).  However, Bates lights don’t grip the ropes well, so I would recommend wearing another pair for rope climbs.

Buy lots of good thick boot socks to avoid blisters! I wore boot sock liners throughout, to good effect.

Click here to grab a pair for yourself

PS

I have no clue if I should be writing “Bates Lights” or “Bates Lites.” Sorry if any of you suffer from OCD.