Posted on Feb 11, 2014
MSG Senior Maintenance Supervisor
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I keep seeing Soldiers with these bright running shoes and for some reason it bothers me although there is nothing in the regulation that states they can't wear these bright shoes I don't understand why they choose to get such bright shoes and don't get black, grey or white running shoes. Maybe it is just a problem within myself.
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Responses: 49
SFC Recruiter
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Honestly, please don't take offense, I think it's your personal preferences that are causing your problem with the shoes. I think there are a number of reason why these shoes are purcahsed and worn. To some it's an expression of their personality, think for instance the jocks in high school who always had to stand out. To others, its comfort level because most of these well designed light weight running shoes aren't introduced in bland colors. And to others it's there way of having something that they can control in their uniform. I also think these shoes are great, not that I wear them because I refuse to pay what they cost, but in most cases they are an added bright mechanism that enables Soliders to be seen when running in less than visible conditions and the majority of time they appear to be cleaner than your standard white running shoe. Yes, there are PT belts, but an added measure isn't always a bad thing. At the end though, it is just running shoes and in most cases they are only being worn a fraction fo the time as compared to the ACU.
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SSG Andrew Dydasco
SSG Andrew Dydasco
10 y
This is exactly my stance, SFC.
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SSG Zachery Mitchell
SSG Zachery Mitchell
10 y

I agree SFC Rosenlund. Not to mention most of these bright colored shoes are also reflective which means extra safety right? lol

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SFC Infantryman
SFC (Join to see)
10 y
Very true. Most of the big named running shoe brands do not sell bland running shoes anymore because they would not sell. I do not agree with the expression of personality issue though. We are not in the business of expressing that. Whats next we get to alter our ACUs or ASUs with bright and colorful items to express our personality. The Army has come along way since you were forced to buy black and white New Balance shoes at Basic haha.
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CPT Intelligence Exercise Planner
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Edited 10 y ago
<p>My shoes look like a copy of Bumblebee from the transformers.&nbsp; The yellow is very bright but I didn't choose them for the color.&nbsp; It has taken me over 20 years to find a running shoe that fits my foot structure and running style so that I can complete a 4+ mile run without severe pain.&nbsp; These shoes were computer matched to my foot. This is the ONLY color that they come in so even though I am very conservative in my civilian clothing choices, I am stuck with 'neon' running shoes.</p><p>Army Times actually had an article this past week discussing the possibility of an 'issue running shoe' for the Army.&nbsp; This would be a disaster.&nbsp; Footwear is a very exact and personal choice and many of us (not all) wear the bright shoes for legitimate reasons.</p>
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CSM Spp Ncoic
CSM (Join to see)
10 y
I would also agree the color of the shoe doesn't make it a big deal it is the attention that is given to them. if they are the proper shoe for your foot and can reduce pain on the feet and knees. Color shouldn't matter.
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SGM Sergeant Major
SGM (Join to see)
10 y
I agree. When I go shopping for running shoes I go after the fit not the color.
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1SG Johnny Carter
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I honestly have to say at first it bothered the hell out of me. The first pair I can remember seeing was after O.E.F 10-11 a Soldier had on a pair of bright orange shoes in my formation. Then as we went on a company run I noticed more and more of These colored running shows all over the place. Did some research and couldn't find anything about color for shoes. At the end of the day I realized as society changes even the Army changes daily. Hell if a Soldier buys them thinking he will pass his run then I say buy away. If the Army has no problem then good ole 1SG doesn't have a problem. Motivated Soldiers are contagious!!! I SAY HOOOOAH!!!!!
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SSG Career Counselor
SSG (Join to see)
10 y
My obnoxious shoes are a road guard vest for my feet 1SG! Safety first!&nbsp;
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1SG Johnny Carter
1SG Johnny Carter
10 y
ABSOLUTELY!!! SAFETY FIRST!!! STRIKE!!!!
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