--Lightweight Assault Boots (LWAB)

The U.S. Army Robert Morris Acquisition Center, Natick Contracting Division, is seeking to negotiate and award a sole source purchase order to Oakley Inc for Lightweight Assault Boots (LWAB). The contract will provide the Government with an initial order of 200 pairs for testing and evaluation, with the possibility to acquire up to an additional 535 pairs for further testing based on performance. The boots have been chosen due to their distinct design attributes, including lightweight construction, enhanced ankle support, and advanced EVA/TPU molding technology aimed at improving shock mitigation. The outsole and material specifications are also notable features the Army intends to assess for potential use. This acquisition is conducted under the authority of FAR 6.302-1, which allows for sole source procurement, and the solicitation is managed by the Department of Defense’s Natick office in Massachusetts. The government’s primary focus is on evaluating the commercial availability and functional design of these boots to determine suitability for soldier use. Interested parties with questions should direct inquiries to Mr. Sean P. Murphy at the Natick Contracting Division. The solicitation originally allowed 45 days for questions and responses, but this period has been shortened to 7 days, emphasizing an expedited acquisition timeline.