Black Uniform Shoes are a mandatory component of several U.S. Navy uniforms, demanding strict adherence to regulations. This guide provides a detailed overview of the specifications for black uniform shoes for both men and women in the Navy, ensuring compliance and a sharp, professional appearance. Understanding these regulations is crucial for all Navy personnel to maintain uniform standards and present a respectable image.
Men’s Black Uniform Shoes: Description and Wear
For male Navy personnel, black uniform shoes are defined as plain-toed, oxford-style, low quarter, lace-up shoes. These shoes must be crafted from smooth leather or synthetic leather, ensuring a polished and professional look.
Key Specifications for Men’s Black Uniform Shoes:
- Style: Plain toe, Oxford style, low quarter.
- Material: Smooth leather or synthetic leather.
- Color: Black.
- Heel: Outside heel, height between 3/4 inch and 7/8 inch, with a flat sole.
- Laces: Black laces, tied from inside out through all eyelets.
Correct Wear for Men’s Black Uniform Shoes:
Maintaining black uniform shoes in excellent condition is paramount. This includes keeping them well-shined and in good repair. Laces must be correctly tied from the inside out through all eyelets to ensure a neat and secure fit. For specific shipboard restrictions, personnel should refer to article 1101.5 of the U.S. Navy Uniform Regulations. It’s also important to note that while black shoes are standard, Navy certified brown leather shoes paired with khaki socks are optional for personnel E-7 and above when wearing khaki uniforms.
Women’s Black Uniform Shoes: Pumps and Flats
Female Navy personnel have options for black uniform shoes, including dress pumps and flats, each with specific guidelines to meet uniform standards.
Dress Pumps (Black) for Women: Description and Specifications
Black dress pumps for women must be plain and made of smooth or synthetic leather, featuring closed heels and toes for a professional and modest appearance.
- Style: Dress pumps with closed heels and toes.
- Material: Smooth or synthetic leather.
- Color: Black.
- Heel Height: 5/8 inch to 3 inches, measured from the bottom back of the heel to its connection with the shoe.
- Heel Width: No wider than 1-3/4 inches at the base.
- Sole Thickness: No thicker than 1/4 inch. Wedge heels are not permitted.
- Outsole and Heel Color: Black for black shoes.
Flats (Black) for Women: Description and Specifications
Black flats for women offer a comfortable alternative while still adhering to uniform regulations. These must be plain, slip-on style with a rounded, closed toe and heel, made from smooth or synthetic leather.
- Style: Slip-on flats, rounded closed toe and heel.
- Material: Smooth or synthetic leather.
- Color: Black.
- Opening: Elongated opening from heel to toe base, mirroring dress shoe shape.
- Outsole and Heel Color: Black for black shoes.
- Outsole Material: Non-marking rubber with traction design.
- Heel Height: Between 1/4 and 1/2 inches.
- Outsole Thickness: No thicker than 1/4 inch.
Correct Wear for Women’s Pumps and Flats:
Dress pumps are worn in the same manner as dress shoes, maintaining a professional standard. Flats should be worn with the bridge of the foot uncovered, ensuring no toes are exposed, maintaining both comfort and professional appearance. Hosiery is optional when wearing pumps or flats; however, if worn, it must be flesh-toned as per article 3501.29 of uniform regulations. When hosiery is not worn, no-show socks or foot liners are required for hygiene and to prevent foot abrasions.
General Guidelines for Black Uniform Shoes
Regardless of style or gender, several general guidelines apply to all black uniform shoes worn by Navy personnel.
Material, Ornamentation, and Markings:
- Material Consistency: All black uniform shoes must be made of smooth leather or synthetic leather to maintain uniformity and ease of maintenance.
- No Ornamentation: Dress shoes must be free of visible ornamentation, designs, or decorative stitching to maintain a professional and uncluttered appearance.
- Outsole Requirements: The outsole should be made of non-marking rubber with a traction design, providing both safety and practicality.
- Ownership Marking: Only initials are permitted for ownership markings, placed inside the shoe near the top, ensuring discreet identification.
Adhering to these detailed regulations for black uniform shoes is essential for all members of the U.S. Navy. Proper uniform wear reflects discipline, attention to detail, and pride in service. By understanding and following these guidelines, Navy personnel ensure they present a professional and regulation-compliant appearance at all times.
