I really enjoy the light weight and flexibility of these boots, they feel like regular shoes most of the time. But as many people have pointed out, the heel cup is too high and stiff. My best recommendation is to line the heel cup with moleskin. Even after breaking them in for 7 months the moleskin is still required to prevent blisters on your heel. The exchange brand moleskin lasts about 4 months in the heel cup so not a big deal. The boots could be so much better with a lower and more flexible heel cup and toe cap.

I agree with some of the other reviews here. These are a great pair of breathable boots, but the heel cup is way too stiff and high. My left side is especially bothersome on mine

I am not military, but wanted a minimalist, unlined, high boot and these are the only ones out there. I get asked where I got them all the time when I hike or go to the gym. I wear them for rucking, hiking, and backcountry climbing. The light soles makes them perfect for transitioning from rucking uphill into short class 4 and class 5 climbs. They hold up well for me, though the soles are torn to shreds at this point and I will need a new pair soon. Cons are that the heel cup is a bit high and stiff. I've worn mine in, but it still digs into my achilles sometimes and can get annoying over time. Overall, a great boot and excellent execution on a calf-high minimalist boot.