"They're built for all-terrain, and I use mine on asphalt every day. I murder running shoes in no time, but I can put over 1,000 miles (with 45# minimum) and 2-3 workouts/week on my Mackalls before it’s time for a new pair." — Jason, GORUCK Cofounder (former Green Beret)
Rucking is the foundation of Special Forces training and the Mackall™ is an off-road rucking machine. Maximum versatility and maximum support in a low top trail shoe named in honor of Camp Mackall, the home of Special Forces training.
AGGRESSIVE TRIPLE COMPOUND OUTSOLE
Each section of the triple compound rubber outsole is designed to perform a specific function the best it possibly can. The forefoot rubber is formulated for increased grip with deep tread specifically shaped to grab the ground while shedding mud and debris. It wraps around the toes for additional protection against rocky terrain or when doing push-ups. The midfoot is formulated from a rock climbing compound and hardened for exceptional abrasion resistance — ideal for fast roping. The heel is more dense and formulated for extreme durability with an expanded heel strike area that won't break down over time or distance.
RUGGED MIDSOLE
The midsole design wraps around the entire upper providing significantly more stability and maximum support. Support you need for your feet so they’re not smoked after being on your feet all day, whatever you’re doing. Support is foundational to Mackall™ and makes them versatile — great for combat, traveling, and for people who demand a lot of their feet.
LIGHTWEIGHT KNIT + REINFORCED TPU UPPER
100% polyester knit constructed with the strength and durability to thrive in unforgiving environments. At 230 g/sqm, it's lightweight and fast drying. High-wear areas are reinforced with a protective TPU film. We targeted the toe area for abrasion resistance and the midfoot to heel area for additional lockdown support.
PROTECTIVE TOE CAP
No stubbed toes from craggy rocks or rogue sticks on the trail. A dual layered toe cap provides extra protection and abrasion resistance across the toes. Reinforced bonding to the rubber outsole's toe bumper results in better long term durability after miles of abusive terrain.
IDEAL RUCKING OFFSET
The ideal heel-to-toe drop for rucking. 13mm offset reduces the strain on your achilles (and by proxy your ankle, knees, and hips) and helps to accommodate a natural gait in an unnatural world of asphalt and man-made surfaces.
WIDE TOE BOX
Generous forefoot area lets your toes breathe. Over time and distance during any activity including rucking or traveling, your feet will swell. This extra space reduces the friction that can occur if your feet rub against the insides of your boot.
NO SPACER MESH
Spacer mesh is soft, squishy, and feels comfortable to your hand when you touch it. But it’s a trap, literally. The first time spacer mesh looks at any kind of water, your boots get heavier and they stay that way. So we proudly do not use spacer mesh, end of story.
3D MOLDED HEEL LOCK
Comfortable PU foam bolsters lock in the heel to prevent slippage and excessive movement around the ankle. This allows you to secure your heel into the shoe without relying on lace-locking or lacing too tightly.
ANATOMICALLY MOLDED TPU HEEL COUNTER
Anchors your foot with a supportive, injection molded heel counter that stabilizes your heel when you're doing dynamic, load bearing exercises.
3MM SPEED LACES
3mm as opposed to standard 5mm, just like MACV-2™. Debris and mud doesn't collect on the 3mm laces like it does on the 5mm, the 3mm rinse off and dry faster, and they're faster to tie because there's less bulk.
REFLECTIVE PULL TAB
Highly reflective pull tab on the back heel keeps you visible on the road or trail. Stay safe out there when choosing the harder path.
LACE-LOCK EYELETS
Extra top eyelets can be used to create a tight heel lock — commonly called a runner's loop or lock lace — that prevents heel slippage and excessive movement around the ankle.
DUAL DENSITY INSERT
Our custom insert uses a dual layered compression foam system that supports your entire foot from heel to toe - including contoured arch support for all 3 of your arches- throughout the duration of your foot strike.
Mackall - Black + Forged Iron
Overall rating: 4.6460104 / 5 from 1178 reviews.
The Mackall Black + Forged Iron shoes offer excellent traction, great support, and a comfortable fit. Customers appreciate the rugged design and high-quality materials, though some noted the need for a half size up. The wide toe box and anatomically molded heel counter provide additional comfort and stability.
Review topics: ["size","fit","weight","issues","quality","feel","material","look","fabric","design","construction","value","color","feet","grip","price","comfort","wear","stability","work","customer service","performance","base","service","durability","style","spots","shoes","box","padding"].
"I work as a fish biologist. I wade while hiking long distances with heavy packs. My feet are always wet. Most shoes are uncomfortable and fall apart in months under these conditions. These shoes have survived twice as long as other name branded light hikers. I am going to wear out the rubber before they fall apart. That is a first."
"The shoe felt great and materials felt solid. The heel lock system didn’t not work for me. The pads placed above the heel below but below the ankle, seemingly to keep your heel in place, only rubbed against my skin as my heel moved up and down. I tried tightening the laces to lock my foot down but it moved within the shoe to my skins irritation. Wish the fit worked for me. The shoe seemed well built, light but sturdy. Standing in them, the toe box fit was generous and the sole felt solid and grounded."
"Very comfortable fit right out of the box. Very roomy forefoot. I have to I wear custom orthotics which are thin for my cycling shoes. I have added a thin insole underneath and the fit is great. I’m a consistent 42. 5 and the fit is good, with just a bit extra. Great addition to my plate carrier. The heel is showing almost no wear after 2 weeks (~60 miles) on concrete sidewalks."
"These are great all around shoes. I have used them for some HIIT workouts, hiking, some field work and short runs. I havent used them for lifting so i can not speak to that. They seem to be very well constructed only downside is their weight but thats what you are going to get with a shoe that is built like a tank."
"Simply not a good product. Rucking with 50 lbs and the shoes, although sized down to fit snug, are not stable. They may be okay for light or no load, but not a good platform for heavy rucks on rough terrain."
"I really want to like these shoes but they just don’t fit my foot right or something. I’ve never gotten blisters before and these shoes just chew my feet up. They do feel really well made and they look great."
"Unfortunately, it was necessary for me to return these wonderful shoes as my heel would not stay in them. The show is well made, sturdy with excellent arch support. No matter how I tried settle my heel (different socks, lacing), I couldn’t make it work and sadly returned them. The communication process, and return was prompt and seamless. Anyone considering these shoes should indeed give them a try as the construction and support is superb."
"I’ve had my GORUCK Mackalls for a while now and have put them through everything from workouts and rucking to working military youth camps and just everyday abuse. They’re comfortable, tough, and easily some of my favorite shoes I’ve owned"
"When living in the USA last year I’d discovered rucking; I often thought about tying some Mackalls. Once back in Australia I saw the legion blue ones on a great sale price. Shipped them in. I love them. Comfy. Robust. Rugged. I’ve already put 30-40 miles on them. I’ve given them 4 stars because the shoes are slightly differing in proportion (not consistent) - and for me the toe box would be better with more of a natural foot shape. Great for rucking. But with a slight reshaping they’d be excellent."
"I've tried all the "best shoes ever" including Merrel, Salomon etc and none of them fit and held up like the Mackall. Used them for daily, PT tests, rucks and overseas with no issues. Tired of blowing through shoes every year while putting up with thin material and ill shaped toe boxes? Do yourself a favor and try a Mackall. Dare you."
As an American business with Special Forces roots, we are proud to donate 1% of our annual top line revenue to non-profit partners who support those who serve.
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