Product Description
“I truly LOVE these boots! And you can quote me for the site if you like! I say, bring on the snow, and cold temps, my toes are ready!”
-Tracy
The ‘Bunny Boots’ are Extreme Cold Vapor Barrier Boots (Type II), and one of the most common boots issued to Antarctic Program participants. The boot is nicknamed after Alaska’s snowshoe hare, whose fur becomes white for the winter to blend in with its surroundings. They were originally developed for use during the Korean War for military cold weather expeditions. These white boots are an improved version of the black Type I “Mickey Mouse boot”. It was designed for use in even more extreme cold weather and is rated all the way down to −65 °F (−54 °C).
The boots are large and bulbous, intended for wear in extremely cold weather. Like most cold-weather boots, they are a bit oversized, as they are intended to be worn with warm, thick socks. However, they are not designed to be worn with boots liners. Buyers should be aware that the majority of the boots, regardless of condition, have their sizes written in black ink on the back of the heel.
Did you know that these boots have their own Wikipedia page? Check it out here!
All gear on the website is listed in men’s sizes unless otherwise specified.
Condition Notes:
The Bunny Boots that we have available are in good, functional condition, but will show aesthetic wear from multiple years of service in the field in Antarctica. While the majority of the boots are clearly marked with the ‘Bata’ brand, we cannot grantee that all are that brand, nor which model/year the boots are. The USAP program restocks as needed, meaning the boots we have are certainly from different years, perhaps different decades. Some boots may have had their laces replaced. Almost all of the boots have their sizes written in black sharpie on the back of the boots, above the heel.
Individual items will vary. Each is an individual piece of Antarctic history, with it’s own story to tell. If you would like to see a specific pair of boots before you purchase, feel free to reach out via our contact form! Within reason, we’re happy to help you find a pair you’re happy with, and make sure that’s what you get when you make your purchase.
- Very Good: The boots may show some relatively mild wear and tear such as scratches, scuffs, and mild staining or yellowing. The boots are in functionable, wearable condition.
- Good: The boots will show moderate wear such as minor cracks in the outer lining, signs of previous repair, and heavier staining or yellowing. The boots are in functionable, wearable condition.
- Fair: The boots may show more severe signs of wear such as writing on the exterior of the boot, larger repairs to the boot, larger cracks/splits to the outer lining, *’melted’ areas, etc. The boots may need some repairs prior to use.
*Some of the boots have areas of ‘melted’ rubber, usually near the top of the boot, where it looks as though the rubber has melted away from the inner lining. We do not sell any boots which have this problem in large patches.
