Frigggear Combat Boot Zipper Kit/Pad
Frigggear Combat Boot Zipper Kit
Frigggear Combat Boot Zipper Kit Quick-Wear Pad
When we first started developing this product, we had doubts:
Is this really necessary?
From a soldier’s perspective, always needing to stay ready for deployment, would it be appropriate to attach a zipper to combat boots during operations?
Reflecting on my military service, many officers and commanders used aftermarket zippers on their boots. It almost seemed like a privilege reserved for leadership, while ordinary soldiers couldn’t even dream of such convenience.
Typically, commanders carried two pairs of boots—one without zippers for training and one with zippers for everyday use. I clearly remember that.
For ordinary soldiers, modifying their issued boots was simply not an option.
Frigggear Combat Boot Zipper Kit / New Generation Combat Boots
Considering the evolving nature of military life and combat scenarios today, and the significantly improved supply standards, it seems reasonable to allow all soldiers to use zippers for easier everyday activities.
It’s certainly better than enduring unnecessary hardship throughout military service.
Of course, it would be ideal if soldiers were issued two pairs of boots—one for peacetime and one for wartime operations.
Still, simply opposing the use of boot zippers just because “that's how it was in my day” seems outdated.
Ultimately, a soldier’s primary goal is to be combat-ready.
If poor-quality gear distracts soldiers from focusing on their mission, that’s a critical flaw.
Efficient equipment that makes daily activities easier allows soldiers to save energy for when it truly matters.
When We Developed the Frigggear Boot Zipper Kit Quick-Wear Pad
- Our main goals were:
- Easy to put on and take off boots.
- Securely holds the foot and ankle during movement.
- No discomfort during active use.
- Exceptional durability.
- Enhances the overall look and appearance of the uniform.
Easy and Convenient
Out of curiosity, we even asked ChatGPT:
"Is it more convenient to have zippers on combat boots, or not?"
+Chat GPT
Advantages and Disadvantages of Having a Zipper on Combat Boots
Advantages
-
Very convenient for putting on and taking off.
No need to untie and retie laces each time, allowing for quick wear and removal, especially in urgent situations. -
Saves time.
Particularly helpful during emergencies or when rapid deployment is required. -
Consistent fit.
Once the laces are properly adjusted, you can maintain the same secure fit every time without needing to readjust. -
Enhanced convenience.
Reduces strain on the feet during daily duties or non-combat activities, and eliminates the stress of constantly adjusting laces.
Disadvantages
-
Potential durability issues.
In extreme activities such as mountain operations or obstacle courses, zippers may be more prone to damage compared to traditional laces. -
Slightly reduced waterproofing and dustproofing.
Even with high-quality waterproof zippers, the sealing is generally not as strong as with fully laced boots. -
Risk during wartime operations.
If the zipper fails, it can be harder to fix compared to simply tightening the laces, potentially causing delays.
Conclusion
- For daily duties, everyday activities, and general training, combat boots with zippers offer clear advantages in convenience and efficiency.
- For high-intensity combat or special operations, it is recommended to use both the zipper and laces together for maximum reliability and safety.
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The insights from the AI aligned closely with our early concerns and design direction.
Simply put, boots with zippers are significantly faster and easier to wear than traditional laced boots.
If a standard zipper were used, it would likely slip down during activities.
To solve this, we incorporated a self-locking zipper mechanism that stays securely closed unless intentionally opened.
(Some customers unfamiliar with this feature initially misunderstood how to properly use the zipper, but later shared positive feedback after learning how it worked.)
Although it required higher production costs, it was a necessary feature for performance and reliability.
Durability Considerations
There were differing opinions about zipper durability.
No zipper is indestructible—under extreme conditions, damage can occur.
After extensive feedback from military organizations and zipper specialists, we chose to use Vislon (plastic) zippers instead of coil zippers.
Vislon was selected based on superior durability and military testing.
Material Upgrades
Traditionally, boot zipper pads are made from synthetic PVC leather.
While durable to an extent, they are flat and prone to failures during heavy use. Most were cheaply mass-produced in China, resulting in low trust and performance.
At the request of military agencies, Frigggear upgraded the material:
We now use US INVISTA Cordura 1000D nylon fabric — the same or even tougher material than what's used for military body armor (plate carriers).
The internal structure was reinforced with additional layers for maximum durability.
Despite higher costs, we intentionally chose the most robust and premium materials to maintain our brand philosophy:
"Products that are made to last."
Sewing and Construction
Special attention was given to sewing techniques:
- We used nylon thread instead of standard polyester.
- The sole area is stitched in three directions for strength.
- The flexible “wings” (fly parts) are triple-stitched for maximum durability, even though it significantly increases production time.
Eyelet (Snap) Improvements
Although initial samples had shiny eyelets, the final product features matte-finished brass eyelets,
custom-made to military standards rather than using off-the-shelf parts.
The eyelet design was inspired by the knee pad grommets used by the US military.
Unique Design Approach
Creating an entirely new design—not simply copying existing products—required tremendous time, simulations, and thought.
Special attention was given to comfort and fit, ensuring the zipper pad moves naturally with the ankle’s shape and motion.
As a result, the Frigg Gear Zipper Kit looks unlike anything else on the market.
Without explanation, most people wouldn't even recognize what it is at first glance.
Once installed and worn, however, users immediately understand:
- How comfortably it wraps around the foot and ankle
- How securely it holds during activity
- How easy it is to put on and take off
Comfort, security, and durability — all in one product.
