Blousing boots or pants (whichever way you want to see it) is a long tradition that dates back to the world war period. For the newbies, it possible to wonder why military personnel, police officers, and boot enthusiasts tuck their pants into their boots.
Well, here is the answer: blousing boots help to keep the trousers from touching the ground. Secondly, a blousing strap locks the entrance, thus keep bugs, debris, ants, and other microorganisms from finding their way into the boot or pants.
This practice keeps the trousers from flapping around aimlessly during a parallel session. For airborne soldiers, it keeps the pants from getting stuck on cargo or other items. It has also been an excellent way for some soldiers and scouts to hide non-dress code socks from the authorities.
Why Not Just Hem the Trousers?
Good question. Of course, trousers can be hemmed to fit snugly. Veteran hikers, hunters, and military individuals do this all the time to avoid looking for strapping bands every day. But when uniforms are mass-produced for a big team, it would take forever to size them according to each person’s size.
For young marines, officers and tactical boot enthusiasts, blousing a boot could prove to be quite troublesome. You need to learn how it is done not just to keep up with the tradition but to contain your pants as well. Here’s how to blouse your boots:
- Lift up your trouser to unveil the boot;
- Strap the blousing strap around your leg-usually between the second and third lacing holes;
- Fold the trouser back down;
- Start rolling it up to three or four folds until there is a bit of length hanging below the blousing strap;
- Pinch the strap and tuck in every remaining part of the trouser. You are good to go.
Too complicated? It usually is for some. Here is another way to go about it:
- Wear your pants and boots;
- Drop the pants back down;
- Trace the bottom of the trouser and pull it up just right above the shoe;
- Now, tighten it and tie the strap around it;
- Pull your pants back up, and you are done. Nice and easy.
Elastic bands provide a great way to blouse boots within seconds. They are impeccable in keeping cold air out. First, put on your pants, socks, and boots. Next, lift the trouser to place the elastic band to your ankles and over your socks. Now, pinch the band and tuck every part of the trouser under it. Now pull the scruffy fabric, so the trouser doesn’t bulge out.
Some people use ribbons and other straps. The problem is, such securing items are too thin, and eventually, the pants get untucked. For those in the army, such an action can piss off the general, and you could get punished.
Also, you must ensure the trouser is properly tight. If it bulges out to form something like a donut ring, then you are not blousing the right way.
Potential Issues Arising From Boot Blousing
For marines and other military personnel, blousing boots is essential. However, if improperly done, you could look forward to uncomfortable moments. First, if your band is too thin and gets too tight, it’s going to leave a dent on your leg when you remove the boot.
Secondly, improper blousing of boots can deter ventilation. This can further bring forth issues such as jock itch-a consequence of sweating too much. In this case, you can resort to the simplest blousing practices like tucking the trouser inside the boot.
However, the method works well with ankle height boots. You can read on the best American made work boots to find varieties that provide ankle protection.
Wrapping It Up
Learning how to blouse boots is part and parcel of military men, women, and law enforcers. Hikers, linemen, and outdoor specialists can benefit from this practice. Stop looking at it as a tradition and consider it a safety measure.
Blousing boots keep micro-organisms with the ability to sting or bite out of your shoes and trousers. While at it, remember to use thicker bands, so you don’t develop dents on your ankles. Thicker bands allow for ample ventilation.
If you keep losing your bands or straps, then consider taking your pants to a tailor and have them hemmed. Alternatively, you can knit the bands inside your trousers, so you don’t have to look for them every time. Remember, you can boost your comfort by investing in the combat boots.
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