The History of the Red Combat Boots

The History of the Red Combat Boots

The history of the red combat boots goes back to the history of the British army. During the British Mandate which began in 1920, the British Paratroopers came to Israel to maintain security in the area. These soldiers came wearing red boots and red berets, which have become the symbol of the IDF Paratroopers. Today IDF Paratroopers can also be seen wearing a unique uniform with a belt over their shirts.

During the first years of the IDF, partroopers wore special red shoes that were similar to the shoes that the British soldiers had. The reason they wore these was because they were lightweight and more comfortable, helping to soften the impact on the foot as they landed from jumps. These shoes were less durable and would quickly fall apart and therefore, in 1974, the Paratroopers Brigade began to use red combat boots. The red color was chosen due to the fact that it easily catches the eye, which is helpful when the paratroopers jump. 

Despite the Paratroopers Brigade being known for wearing the red combat boots, there are several other brigades who also wear the red combat boots. The Nahal and Kfir Brigades, as well as the Duvdevan and Oketz units, and the Border Protection Corps are all examples of other divisions in the IDF where they wear red combat boots. The reasoning behind it is because they were all once a part of the Paratroopers Brigade at one point in history and therefore they all have the honor of wearing red combat boots.