Altberg Sneeker Microlite, Black and MOD Brown, original and aqua
The Sneeker was the original lightweight military rapid intervention boot. The now legendary Sneeker Microlite was at the time possibly the most lightweight, all leather military boot ever made. The tabbing boot is now a bit lighter. Developed in 1997 with input and help of serving soldiers based in Catterick Garrison and other military bases around the UK. The input from many of the NCO’s involved in training and developing the skills and endurance of young recruits drove this development. As bootmakers Altberg listened and tried to interpret their requirements.
The brief was for a leather boot that was shock absorbing, lightweight with minimal moisture absorption, as on many tasks it was inevitable that they would get wet inside, so minimal weight gain when wet and fast drying were key requirements.
The Sneeker Microlite has a high unlined leg and after more than 20 years it is still the first choice of many soldiers for selection and training and everyday operational use. If you are in a very wet environment where water will go over the ankle, the aqua version will hold the moisture in as well as it keeps it out! Do you need aqua? There is also a Sneeker Lady Elite version. Basically this is like the Tabbing Boot, it is made on the asymetric last (A-Forme) and is one set of lace loops fewer than the standard Sneeker Microlite. Enforce-logic stocks up to size 6.5 in the Lady Elite, if you need a larger size just try the Tabbing boot which is stocked from size 7 upwards.
AQUA?
When you see the word AQUA, the boot is lined with Sympatex. Sympatex is a waterproof breathable membrane similar to Gore-Tex. Generally the aqua versions are about £10 more expensive (retail) than the non aqua version and they are a little heavier as the sympatex weighs more than the usual Cambrelle lining. If you have ever worn a Gore-Tex jacket and the sun comes out you will know it can get a bit warm. If you are prone to sweaty feet, in the summer the aqua versions can get a bit warm compared to the non aqua. Both versions are made with full grain Anfibio® water repellent leather, the aqua version has the additional Sympatex waterproof breathable lining. Of course if you are in a lot of water and it goes over the ankle, the aqua version will hold the water and moisture in as well as it can keep it out. In the summer, if you get warm feet, you can be compromised a bit with the aqua version. In a very wet winter they have the advantage of being a bit warmer.
Altberg Tabbing SF Mk 3 Boot, Black & MOD Brown
Altberg Tabbing Boot is the latest generation of the Altberg Sneeker (it doesn't come in an aqua version though) It is based on the Sneeker Microlite, however it is made on the asymetric last/forme (A-Forme) These days it comes in ‘SF’ version which basically means the lacing system doesn't have any hooks, only eyelet rings so para cords etc haven't got a hook to get caught up in. If you jump out of aircraft for a living you need the SF version. It looks similar to the Sneeker but has one row of lace loops fewer and is therefore a bit lower at the ankle and therefore a bit lighter. Increased toe lift and “roll” - Heel & leg snug fitting, supportive. Designed for running and walking on rough terrain, tracks, and roads. A-Forme is based on running shoe bio-mechanics - Upwards roll of toe is increased to 20° - Narrow/close fitting heel to reduce heel lift and mid-foot and toe shape is asymmetric to reduce sideways pressure on the large toe.
Which boot should I buy?
If you have worn Sneekers before and you are happy then stick to the Sneeker. They tend to be slightly narrower across the front of the foot. If you have a wider foot then try the Tabbing Boot. People with narrow feet seem to prefer the Sneeker. If you need a hookless lacing system then the Tabbing is the one. If you need the aqua version then Sneeker Aqua is the one. These are lightweight boots designed for operational or training scenarios.
Sizes
There is some talk about needing a half size bigger in boots than your standard shoes. This is more appropriate for ladies who probably haven't worn thicker socks with their footwear, however, we say start with the size most of your trainers in the wardrobe are.
To sum up, if you are new to wearing boots or have a wider foot try the Tabbing first. Only buy the aqua version if you are comfortable with the extra weight and possible extra warmth in the summer months.
Written by: MW, retired UK Police Officer, founder of Enforce-logic Ltd, updated AUG 2026.