Your journey begins at Thayer Hotel or the Holleder Center, and the most important thing to remember is less is more. On R-Day, you will be issued a massive amount of gear (your “Redbook” items). Anything you bring from home must fit into a single, modest gym bag. Focus on high-quality basics that meet the strict Academy requirements: broken-in combat boots (if authorized to pre-wear), black spandex shorts for under your physical training (PT) gear, and a sturdy, waterproof watch. The advance purchase of footwear is MANDATORY.
The “Broken-In” Rule: Boots & Shoes
The biggest mistake a New Cadet can make is showing up with fresh-out-of-the-box footwear. If you are authorized to bring your own low-quarters or combat boots, they should be thoroughly broken in at least a month prior to R-Day. During Beast, you will be on your feet for 16+ hours a day. Your running shoes should be high-stability models, as the terrain at West Point is unforgiving and the “Plain” is harder on the joints than it looks. Cadet Candidates will also be issued one pair of standard low-quarter shoes and boots upon arrival.
