Are the new boot regulations too stringent?

The opposite. I almost s*** my pants when I heard the recruits were given "timeout" cards to wave when they're stressed. If a fire breaks out on the ship, I would like to see the reaction of the skipper if somebody tries handing him or her a timeout card.

Honestly, a boot is a boot to me. Even when I was a civilian, I couldn't tell the difference. Personally, as long as it is comfortable for the wearer, is everything proof, and at least looks the part, then it should pass.

PFC Brahim Elidrissi, you are right on track. The boots that were recently disallowed either were not tested, or failed safety tests according to DA and DOD standards.