Shoe, Athletic, Men’s & Women’s (3 Types)

The U.S. Army Footwear Certification Program, established on June 21, 2017, reviews footwear and test reports against Army specifications and purchase descriptions. Its mission is to ensure Berry Amendment-compliant footwear sold to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) meets or exceeds requirements for material, shade, design, fit, construction, appearance, quality, workmanship, and durability. The program sets quality standards, evaluates samples, issues certifications for government contracts, monitors certified items, reports deficiencies, and informs manufacturers of changes. Certification is valid for two years, subject to renewal, and can be revoked for non-compliance. Manufacturers must submit physical samples, test reports, and product information for certification or recertification. Inspections occur mid-cycle and at manufacturing/warehousing facilities, and certification numbers are assigned exclusively to individual firms. Violations can lead to revocation, with a warning for the first infraction and potential publication to DLA.

The GL-PD-16-06 Purchase Description outlines the requirements for athletic training shoes for recruits entering Initial Military Training (IMT) within the Department of Defense. The document details three types of shoes: Cushion/Neutral (Type I), Stability (Type II), and Motion Control (Type III), each designed for specific arch heights and pronation levels. It specifies sizing for men and women, widths, and materials for components like thermoplastic heel counters, laces, knit linings, and removable cushion inserts. The purchase description also includes performance requirements for various shoe parts, design specifications (e.g., Strobel stitch construction, heel-to-toe drop, reflective elements), and end-item performance criteria such as shock attenuation, bond strength, and longitudinal stiffness. Detailed inspection and testing procedures are provided, referencing government and non-government standards. The document also addresses marking, toxicity, workmanship, and packaging, ensuring the shoes meet rigorous standards for military use.