"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: 4.653295 / 5 from 1047 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, improvement, color, fabric, price, material, quality, feel, support, performance, design, comfort, work, construction, grip, wear, pack, feet, stability, customer service, look, base, durability, spots, value, style, padding].
"The build quality of these is exceptional. Toughest shoes I’ve owned and the support is great. Hold grip way better than tennis shoes. Only issue I have is they are too long and I’d like them to grip my heels a little better. The width is great. I want to try a size down but am worried these will then be too small."
"I purchased every pair of shoes from goruck and have not been disappointed. I love my ballistics as a workout and everyday shoe, but the Mackall is the best shoe to get miles in hands down. Stable and comfortable with a minimal break in period. I used to wear brooks or Rough Runners for rucking but this will now be my go to option, especially for long rucks."
"I have worn these shoes daily for three years in my work in pest control. I am routinely walking 15,000 steps or more a day with up to 40lbs sprayer backpack (about half the time) in grass, landscaping rocks, up and down apartment stairs. I love getting a new pair, but hate getting them dirty, but love how they hold up to daily use. Supportive, protective, handsome. These shoes are like your favorite dad, only they don’t wear old spice deodorant."
"This is hands-down the best quality shoe I’ve ever owned. I bought my first pair of Blue Mackalls in 2022 and was immediately impressed by the materials and build. The soles are outstanding and the fit was perfect right out of the box. The subtle color makes them versatile for almost any occasion. Four years later, these are still my favorite shoes. I wash them in the machine about every other month, and they always come out looking brand new. I’m also amazed that they don’t develop any odor, even after lots of wear. The insides remain in great shape with no holes or worn spots, which is never the case with any of my other shoes. I also wanted to mention that I walk with my feet pointed outward and this causes the outer heels to wear quickly. As you can see from the pictures, the soles have held up with minimal wear. I don’t own a lot of shoes but I do have three pairs of Mackalls because they are absolutely worth the price. For durability, comfort, and style, these are a 5/5. Highly recommend!"
"looks good, fits well. does well in heat. i really like the no slip laces. really my only criticize is the swallow lug of the soles. they slip on 1/4-/+ DG and small rocks. there is not enough depth in the tread."
"Solid shoe for stability and grip on any surface. Don’t overlook a shoe designed for rucking. I started my journey with tennis shoes (Asics) and destroyed those marshmallows in a very short time. Mackalls are great for weight and distance. They really make the difference in my opinion. Thank you."
"Within minutes of opening the box, my new Mackalls were on the trail for 10K. Perfect fit - Ghillie lacing is superior. The grey color is also perfect, not too dark and concealing ticks. Not too light collecting stains. Good traction, even on slippery wet wood."
"dese great shoes. They gave me full refund on the rough runners i bought a year ago that started to fail, and while i would be upset about having to purchase a more expensive shoe. Reflecting how kind the scars team has always been to me I have nothing to truly complain about. While I dont have a use for much more than shoes Im happy to keep giving them my money and I would hope that brands understand that the way you treat customers comes around."
"For years I'd worn Mephisto boots and shoes exclusively because that was the only brand that didn't give me plantar fasciitis. But the leather boots get really warm with summer rucking and I wanted a lighter, cooler shoe. The Mackall reviews were good so I took a chance and bought a pair and so far they have performed very well. Comfortable fit, comfortable on hot pavement with good cushioning and traction, the soles are easy to clean and they're a lot less expensive than my previous boots. 5 stars from me."
"I actually love them! It’s almost like a sneaker but way more sturdy but lightweight. Because of the way they grip the ground and slightly bend when rucking, you can feel your toe strength kick in. Another thing that I noticed right away is that I do t need my orthopedic inserts. They help keep my back aligned. A co worker told me about his experience with his back and posture and he was right, Going to purchase another pair for casual wear."
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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