TargetTalk

Just curious. I'm not in the market for shooting boots (shoes are the least of my problems), but I've noticed that they appear outwardly to be just like x-country skiing boots. Are there substantial differences between the two?

The old 3-pin XC boots are similar, may have more forward lean, and will have a sole that is more flexible, which will make it less flat. You might be better off getting a cheap pair of skateboarder's shoes/hi-tops which are really flat-soled.

(I remember years ago that one of our better club shooters used old army XC boots for his 3P. They were real heavy leather. And he was a fine shot.)

For rifle shooting boots you really need to be looking at rule 7.4.6.3 on page 295 of the ISSF Rule Book

This is assuming you shoot competitions under issf rules

Tom, if you are going to continue to shoot pistol, your ankles must be visible. Hence no high top boots. Low cut skate boarding shoes are good. 'Vans' are a good example. The objective is to have shoes that will not roll. Many running shoes are designed (surprise! surprise!) to help you run; not stand flat on your feet.

I have heard stories that many years ago, pistol shooters worn "special" clothes like leather shooting jackets. Take them off and the shoot arm would be straight out! David could give us the exact chapter and verse, but pistol shooters are now restricted from wearing any special shooting clothing.

PETE S wrote:David could give us the exact chapter and verse, but pistol shooters are now restricted from wearing any special shooting clothing.

6.4.2.1.1 The use of any special devices means or garments which immobilize or unduly reduce the movement of the shooter's legs, body or arms is prohibited in order to ensure that the performance skills of the shooters are not artificially improved by special clothing.

PETE S wrote:Tom, if you are going to continue to shoot pistol, your ankles must be visible. Hence no high top boots. Low cut skate boarding shoes are good. 'Vans' are a good example. The objective is to have shoes that will not roll. Many running shoes are designed (surprise! surprise!) to help you run; not stand flat on your feet.

No, I really have no interest in acquiring any special-purpose shoes. It really was nothing more than curiosity. I see shooting boots advertised at $150+, and they look suspiciously like the virtually unused x-country ski boots I got for $20 when I lived in upstate NY.

30 years ago when I shot a lot of NRA 3 position smallbore I had a special pair of heavy leather boots that were dedicated shooting boots. It did make a substantial difference.

I have shot with Shooting boots rifle for years.
There are two good points I can make.
They help alot in the kneeling postition.
The main point is they are consistant... always shooting in the same boots.
They are not your half worn out rebok's you replace every 6 months.