Fieldcraft Panama soles and tracking/tracks

[RTH1800]

I recently wore out my VN era jungle boots and broke out a new pair. I did not look closely and the box I opened contained a later version with Panama soles. I have a few pairs of the mid 60's boots but only wear one pair at a time until worn out.

So, what I noticed is that on a 10 mile walk along the river yesterday in the new boots I really had a time seeing my own boot prints on the walk back. It was 5M in and 5M out. Soil was moist as it had just rained. Much of the same path was taken in and out. I could see slight scuff marks, moved branches etc. Just nothing that would stand out as a boot track. I realized that these boots were made to not leave prints that would appear human to the casual observer. I was impressed. Did everyone else know this?

 

[Victory]

I'm assuming it was over-cast and around mid day. Best time to track is mid morning and mid afternoon, due to the angle of the sun leaving shadows in the tracks. I would be interested to see what if you got the same results on bright sunny day.

Panama soles usually have large lugs and are easily tracked. Can you post a pic of the new ones you are talking about?

In reality, it doesn't matter what trick or anti-tracking technique you use. You always leave spoor and can and will be tracked by good team.

 

[RTH1800]

Victory,
I was in old growth forest, very shaded. I am aware you can be tracked. I just noted that the tracks were far from obvious.

 

[Victory]

Victory,
I was in old growth forest, very shaded. I am aware you can be tracked. I just noted that the tracks were far from obvious.

Right on. Looked some more and couldn't find any new Panama soles. Still would like a pic if you have one.

I spent a lot of time tracking trigger men while overseas and really got into it.

My platoon was lucky to send about 8 of us to TTOS's tracking school for two weeks before we went over. It got put to good use, that's for sure. I wish everyone could have gone to it. It really opened your eyes to things you would have never seen before.

 

[RTH1800]

Cool,

Send your email and I will send picture, (when I take them off)
You are free to post it up. The difference in the tracks these boots leave and other boots leave is very notable. On most any terrain. It is not by chance I am sure.

 

[Travis S]

If they are the traditional Panama sole, they are great. Only place I've found them to get clogged up is good'ol Georgia clay. They flex well, rarely clog, dig in great, can leave a different print. Make no mistake though, they are still there. And if you're being pursued, watch out for the dogs. No covered tracks will hide your scent.