The first thing you notice about these incredible boots, apart from how drop dead gorgeous they are, is how amazingly light they are for a fully technical B3 rated boot. The original Nepal boots were incredibly robust and long lasting, but weighed a ton, the new Nepal Cube GTX carries on the tradition of durability and reliability but at a fraction of the weight. They are made using fully insulated high quality Idro-Perwanger leather. This is a premium silicone impregnated 3.2mm rough-out leather made by Perwanger Leather of Italy. Perwanger has been making leather in the Southern Tyrol region of Italy since 1780 and tans their Idro-Perwanger hides with a special process to make them extremely water repellent while still retaining maximum breathability. This leather is the most durable available and is made from the corium, the strongest part of the leather. This high quality and incredibly robust leather is then backed by a fully insulated Gore-Tex membrane to provide the warmth needed on high altitude expeditions and the complete waterproofing needed when ploughing through wet snow. When you slip your feet into these beauties you instantly feel secured and cosseted by the internal heel and ankle padding, giving you the confidence that any suggestion of heel slip, which can be a problem with B3 boots, will be eliminated. Full ankle articulation is provided by the innovative 3D Flex System at the ankle which makes long walk-ins possible and makes these incredible boots comfortable enough for general mountaineering, despite their B3 rating. Further comfort is achieved by the EZ-OUT variable adjustable tongue; mesh covered foam is adjustable to fit and also acts as a pump to draw moisture out of the boot. The lower part of the uppers are protected from scrapes and abrasion by an air injected rubber rand, this process reduces weight and allows for a very precise and custom application; which is why these boots look so damn good. The toe area, which gets the most abuse, has a tougher material overlay. Underfoot there is a Carbon Tech honeycomb midsole which provides the strength and stability for the boot and also insulates without adding unnecessary weight. A 4mm layer of EVA foam enhances this insulation and adds shock absorbency and cushioning. To enable a secure and safe crampon attachment a 2mm Polyurethane layer runs through the midsole enabling all types of crampons to be attached. Finally a replaceable Vibram sole with aggressive lugs and La Sportivas brilliant Impact Brake System (IBS) provides grip and security on all terrain. IBS is a unique technology in outsole design where the lugs of the soles are oriented in opposing slanted directions. This opposition increases braking power and decreases impact forces by an average of 20%.
The Ridge High GTX boot is made with a mixed fabric and split leather upper and features a reinforced rubber toe rand. This protects the front of the boot when you are scrambling over rough rock and on a via ferrata route. There is a 2 zone lacing system which clamps your heel securely in place with a lace locking hook, and there is a lovely soft memory foam insert that moulds to your ankle and provides a comfortable yet secure feel. The heel cup is quite shapely to help hold your heel where it needs to be and to reduce slippage. The inner is fully Gore-Tex lined for maximum protection and breathability, and the low profile sole comes with a suitable climbing zone for when you need to use a precise toe edge. The midsole is nice and rigid to ensure faith when scrambling; yet not too stiff which makes it a great boot for general walking. The Gripex sole has a sonar inspired tread patten to ensure grip and control, the hard outer rubber gives stability where as the softer inner tread provide outstanding grip. All in all this would make a great all round mountain boot for the avid mountain goer Motion Control Memo Foam FeetMap Elastic GORE-TEX tongue construction 2 Zone Lacing Triple Density midsole Sonar Technology grip Rubber edge Board lasted for stiffness
The Batura 2 GTX is a phenomenally lightweight boot for full on Alpine winter ascents and high altitude mountaineering where you expect to encounter ice or mixed climbing in cold and wet conditions. The unique construction uses a waterproof and extremely durable stretch Gore-Tex integrated gaiter over an inner boot with double layered Gore-Tex for waterproofing, warmth and excellent breathability. The inner boot is also insulated with Polyethylene and an insulating aluminium construction to keep you warm and comfortable in wet snow and freezing conditions. The fabric construction allows superb flexibility without sacrificing support, allowing both comfortable walk ins and full front pointing capabilities. A stiff 3mm honeycomb carbon midsole supports your foot and creates air chambers for better insulation and complete support and rigidity when front pointing or climbing. Shock absorption is provided by 8mm TPU and PU inserts and the ingenious SBR Aircushion, a state of the art modern one-piece synthetic rubber outsole that incorporates both an outer sole, the bit you can see, and an inner integral midsole which provides shock absorption. A honeycomb heel grid flexes upon impact and a softer density rubber forms a midsole cushion from heel to toe while the dense rubber outsole supplies abrasion resistance. The Vibram out sole has deep lugs for looser conditions and a dedicated climbing zone under the big toe area. This durable and versatile sole uses La Sportivas unique Impact Braking System where the lugs of the sole are oriented in opposing slanted directions. This opposition increases braking power by an average of 20% and decreases impact forces by an average of 20% making long descents more controlled and comfortable. New 2-layer GORE technology for the ultimate cold weather protection and comfort PU midsole for soft resilient comfort when walking Asymmetrical waterproof durable zipper for excellent outer gaiter fit Super lightweight insulating honeycomb carbon midsole for rigidity Impact Brake System Vibram sole unit with SBR AirCushion
The Spantik is a much more comfortable alternative to technical plastic mountaineering boots and is just as capable. La Sportiva have created a very warm yet technically capable boot by using a double soft boot construction that has the comfort of summer boots with the full technical climbing attributes of stiff and heavier plastic boots. This ingenious construction reduces weight and really speeds up drying time which is crucial if you are on a multi day route. The outer boot, whilst being hugely supportive and protective also allows flexibility for long walk-ins and has a unique overlap opening that makes getting the inner boot in place much easier. The outer is made from a fusion of synthetic materials that do not absorb water, dry quickly and features a moulded TPU ankle spoiler that enhances the support and stability required for technical routes or even skiing. The boffins at La Sportiva have designed a quick and easy way to lace the boots, a single lace is locked into place using an ingenious mechanism that eliminates knots and can be easily secured whilst wearing heavy gloves or mitts. The inner boot itself is a work of art, they are very different to the usual shapeless foam efforts often found in hard shell boots with well placed padding and supportive fabric overlays around the instep and ankle. Like the outer boots they use a speed lacing system secured by a Velcro tab. This system is quick and easy to use and holds the lace tension securely. The inner can also be heated to achieve a true custom fit, just follow the instructions carefully! Whilst the inner and outer boots provide excellent insulation the majority of the cold is felt through the sole, as thats the bit thats in contact with the ground. Traditionally boots overcame this problem by making the soles dense reducing climbing sensitivity and increasing weight. The Spantik however uses a unique 5mm thermal structure carbon fibre midsole to provide strength and support without sacrificing feel and sensitivity. Shock absorbency and further insulation is provided by a micropore EVA midsole with TPU inserts to provide the support for crampon bindings. The outer sole is the aggressive Vibram Montagna which has a rolling rocker for easier walking, deep lugs for loose ground and a dedicated climbing zone for...climbing! Overall the Spantik is the perfect expedition, winter Alpine and technical climbing boot that will protect you from extreme cold in the most inhospitable places on Earth.
The Quest uses a development of the 3D chassis which has been successfully used on Salomon trail running shoes, the 4D Advanced chassis has evolved with extended cushioning over the forefoot adding the comfort and stability needed in a hiking boot. Nubuk leather and nylon textile uppers provide durability, enhanced breathability and support and is backed by a full Gore-Tex lining for waterproofing and breathability. With plenty of internal padding the Quest is immediately comfortable and just begs to be taken on a long walk in the hills. Grip and security is provided by Salomons reliable and proven Contagrip sole unit which has directional lugs with different density to provide both grip and durability. All these features combined give for an incredibly light, stable and versatile boot. Nubuk and synthetic uppers Gore-Tex lining Protective rubber heel cap 4D Advanced chassis Moulded EVA cushioning Protective rubber toe cap Contagrip sole unit
The Trango Alp GTX is perhaps the best all round trekking, mountaineering and technical scrambling boot available. Intended for multi-use in all terrains the Trango Alp GTX is versatile enough to accept a semi-automatic crampon for winter duties and comfortable enough for long high level treks such as the Haute Route or a GR route. The uppers are a mix of leather and synthetic materials for the best durability, breathability and comfort. The Vibram sole features the impact brake system where the lugs of the sole are oriented in opposing slanted directions to increase braking forces by 20% and decrease impact forces by 20%, this really makes a difference when descending to reduce fatigue and impact. With a slightly higher ankle than most other boots of this type the Trango offers superb support yet allows mobility in all directions thanks to the 3D multidirectional flex system. Fully Gore-Tex lined for complete waterproofing and breathability these boots are suitable for all year round activities where you can expect extremes of weather.
By using Scarpa’s Activ Fit system the Ranger has been hugely improved with a much better fit and feel. The heel cup is narrower to minimise heel slippage and the front toe area has been made roomier to allow for a much more natural foot position. The mid-sole of the boot offers support and stability without being over stiff achieving a comfortable rolling style without over working your feet. The four elements of Activ Fit; last, sole ergonomic design and footbed all work together to bring you out of the box comfort and reliable performance. The new Ranger 2 Activ is made from full grain quality leather and backed up by a Gore Tex lining to keep your feet dry and last for years. A full protective rubber rand helps protect the leather from scrapes and knocks, whilst the Vibram outsole offers excellent grip and durability. A perfect hill and fell walking boot that offers instant out of the box comfort and Scarpa quality assurance.
The Montagnard is a brand new mountaineering boot from AKU which features a fully insulated Gore-Tex comfort lining for true winter capabilities. The Montagnard is perfect for winter mountaineering and for those who work hard in the mountains in winter such as guides and rescue personnel. We would rate the Montagnard as a B2+ boot, its flexible enough for mountain walking and glacier travel, yet has enough stiffness to accept step in crampons for mixed climbing. Despite its heavy weight performance these fabulous boots have a lightweight construction and sensitive feel. Constructed using the highest quality 3mm silicone impregnated Perwanger leather with a special Gore-Tex insulated comfort lining these boots will be perfectly at home in the harshest of conditions and environments. Further insulation is provided by Primaloft inserts over the tongue and toe area which are more prone to ice and snow accumulations. The custom footbed features a special heat reflective material to reduce radiant heat loss from your feet. The key to the comfort and stability of AKU boots is their IMS system. Normally the midsole (the boots backbone) is made from a flat stiff board or plate, but IMS uses a 3D anatomically shaped carbon midsole that cradles the foot in a natural position reducing internal movement and encouraging a naturally relaxed foot. What this means is that your feet feel less tired as they are not constantly working to provide support, the IMS is doing all that. The modular sole unit of the Montagnard has been constructed using the new Exoskeleton which provides protection and stability without compromising the weight of the boot. The Exoskeleton is made up of a softer material to absorb impact shock and a more rigid material to provide stability, lateral retention and the perfect torsional rigidity. A Vibram Nepal outer sole has aggressive lugs for grip and security on loose ground and a dedicated climbing area for secure grip on rock. The Montagnard is designed with a higher ankle to provide full support and protection and features Flex zones to provide freedom of movement for long walk ins and trekking; an integrated microfibre gaiter keeps snow and debris out of the top of the boots. Lacing is controlled through steel roller eyelets that allow an even lace pull right form the toe to the ankle. Lace tension can be separated between ankle and lower foot with a locking cleat. A full rubber rand protects the uppers form abrasion and is thicker on the instep where most contact occurs. An insulated and high performance B2+ mountaineering boot. 3mm Perwanger leather uppers Vibram Nepal sole unit IMS 3 comfort and support Insulated Gore-Tex comfort lining Performance fit Exoskeleton support system
The Quest uses a development of the 3D chassis which has been successfully used on Salomon trail running shoes, the 4D Advanced chassis has evolved with extended cushioning over the forefoot adding the comfort and stability needed in a hiking boot. Nubuk leather and nylon textile uppers provide durability, enhanced breathability and support and is backed by a full Gore-Tex lining for waterproofing and breathability. With plenty of internal padding the Quest is immediately comfortable and just begs to be taken on a long walk in the hills. Grip and security is provided by Salomons reliable and proven Contagrip sole unit which has directional lugs with different density to provide both grip and durability. All these features combined give for an incredibly light, stable and versatile boot. Nubuk and synthetic uppers Gore-Tex lining Protective rubber heel cap 4D Advanced chassis Moulded EVA cushioning Protective rubber toe cap Contagrip sole unit
The new Bhutan has replaced the venerable Burma for 2014. This high quality boot retains all the quality and craftsmanship you would expect from Meindl and adds modern technologies to ensure the fit is comfortable straight from the box and for years to come. The uppers are a waxed Nubuck leather for water resistance and durability, this reliable material is then backed up by a Gore-Tex lining to guarantee dry feet. Sitting between the leather uppers and the Gore-Tex lining around the heel and tongue area is Meindls unique Memory Foam System. MFS is a unique polyurethane that reacts to heat from your feet to mould around your foot giving a custom fit each time you put the boots on. To enhance the fit and provide a secure ankle placement Meindl have developed the Digafix lacing system. Digafix provides flexible, pressure free lacing across the foot at the flex point. A full rubber rand wraps the boot to protect from scuffs and scrapes and a full PU midsole provides shock absorbency and durability. Grip and stability are provided by a Vibram MultiGriff sole unit that is unique to Meindl. Meindl recommend these boots for demanding hikes and easier treks on good paths. Waxed Nubuk leather uppers Gore-Tex lining Memory Foam System Digafix lacing system Vibram sole
The Borneo 2 MFS is an update on Meindls classic all leather strong, hiking and trekking boot. Lined with a soft leather for enhanced comfort and superior breathability the Borneo is not guaranteed waterproof. However if you regularly clean and maintain the leather uppers these fabulous boots will provide natural protection from the weather for many years. The new model features improved lacing through rollerball fixings that allow an even lace tension right up the front of the boot as you pull the laces tight. An updated EVA midsole provides improved cushioning and durability. The MFS (Memory Foam System) works by placing durable memory foam inserts in the tongue, heel cheeks and over foot areas to mould around the ankle and heel area providing an almost custom fit. The Meindl Multigiff sole by Vibram has a high skid resistance at the edges, excellent shock absorption through its EVA midsole layer- and abrasion resistance, all to ensure you remain safely on your feet supported by a tough and stable platform.
The T Aenergy is the big brother of the old Teton Aenergy. Faster, lighter and more durable. The mixed fabric and PU based upper is hard wearing and flexes with your foot. Whilst the tough rubber toe rand protects the front of the boot from scrapes on rough rocks. The boot has a full Gore-Tex lining so it is 100% waterproof and seeing as this is a Swiss design you know it has been built to last. This boot is very similar to the Salomon Cosmic boot, however after 3 months you wont have to bring it back to get it replaced. There is a soft cushioned midsole that absorbs shock extremely well and turns long walks into a pleasurable experience for your feet, even though the front of the midsole has a stiff board for added support on the rock. The sole unit is one of Mammuts own custom designs and has been produced by Vibram, so we know that its going to be durable and grippy. The asymmetric lacing system works incredibly well, as your foot is not symmetrical so why should your laces be any different. A great lightweight, cofmy hiking boot that will keep on going all day long. Base Fit Rolling Concept Memo Foam Hybrid Shell Rubber toe cap Liquid Rubber Protection Soft Shell 3-D Textile Scale Technology Board lasted
The Manta Pro is now built on the FT last, one shared with the Charmoz, that offers a more technical closer fit which offers better support on steeper, rougher terrain whilst enhancing sensitivity when scrambling. The AutoFit collar and Flex Point Zone provides high levels of comfort and allows the foot to flex naturally when walking without sacrificing support. Underfoot performance has been improved with the new Pentax Precision XT sole with Activ Impact Technology. Basically the sole has been designed to absorb ground impact, providing better shock absorption and energy release; it gives you a spring in your step! The lug pattern is deeper and more aggressive with a dedicated flat climbing zone around the toe area. The Manta Pro GTX has a massively improved TPU crampon plate which sits on top of a durable PU shock absorbing insert, and an additional one under the forefoot. With more progressive flexing the Manta Pro is far more comfortable over longer walking distances, eliminating that flat footed heel toe action often found in stiffer boots. The uppers are constructed from reversed Suede leather and feature the Speed Lacing System, each lace point has a roller to keep lace tension smooth and even. A full rubber rand protects the uppers from abrasion and scrapes. Scarpa have re-designed the Manta to produce an all-round B2/C2 boot that is perfect for UK mountaineering. Suitable crampons would be the Grivel G12 or G14 with New-Matic bindings.
The key to the Transalpinas comfort and support is the ingenious IMS 3 system. IMS 3 combines the outersole, an exoskeleton support structure and a 3D anatomical fit midsole. The outsole is exclusive to AKU and is a lightweight deep lugged Vibram unit combining durability with traction and stability. Cushioning and support is provided by the internal PU and EVA midsole which then extends up and around the heel to provide additional support and pronation control. The IMS 3D midsole provides a natural rolling flex to the boot without it being too soft or too stiff. The shape of the midsole itself mimics the natural foot shape to cradle the foot in a natural position reducing fatigue and internal movement. The internal shape of the boot is dictated by the last, a solid form that the boot is built around. AKU use an anatomical last which gives room around the metatarsal heads (toe joints) and control and support in the heel area minimising slippage and friction. The uppers are a mixture of leather and synthetic materials to provide durability and breathability. The synthetic material is made from Air 8000, an incredibly breathable material that breathes 11 times better than traditionally made fabric boots. Fully Gore-Tex lined for complete waterproofness. All together the Transalpina is a supremely comfortable and high performance trekking boot suitable for walking in varied terrain and for longer treks in the mountains.
This brand new boot from AKU is absolutely gorgeous, both to look at and to wear. Virtually all the components were sourced from Italian suppliers and the boots themselves were designed and hand made by AKU in their Montebelluna factory in northern Italy. They just ooze quality. The key to the comfort and stability of AKU boots is their IMS system. Normally the midsole (the boots backbone) is made from a flat stiff board or plate, but IMS uses a 3D anatomically shaped midsole that cradles the foot in a natural position reducing internal movement and encouraging a naturally relaxed foot. What this means is that your feet feel less tired as they are not constantly working to provide support, the IMS is doing all that. The sole unit of the Superalp has been constructed using the new Exoskeleton construction which provides protection and stability without compromising the weight of the boot. The Exoskeleton is made up of a softer material to absorb impact shock and a more rigid material to provide stability, lateral retention and the perfect torsional rigidity. A Vibram self-cleaning outer sole supplies oodles of grip on a loose ground and has a reinforced toe area for secure grip on rock, if you fancy a bit of scrambling. The Nubuk leather is supplied by an Italian tannery that guarantees a sustainable and environmentally friendly production process resulting in the best quality 2.6mm leather. These sublime leather uppers are then backed by a 3D Gore-Tex lining for complete waterproofing and breathability. Stretch zones have been built into the ankle area to allow full movement without compromising support. In fact your ankle is superbly protected and cossetted by padding which becomes apparent as you slide your foot in. A full rubber rand finishes off the uppers to provide abrasion resistance. An even lacing tension is guaranteed by the use of roller eyelets that allow a smooth lace pull from the toe to the ankle, and you can separate the upper and lower lacing tension with a 45 degree lace lock. I really cannot convey in words how fantastically comfortable these boots are, your feet feel completely relaxed and cosseted, yet secure and stable at all times. Nubuk leather uppers Gore-Tex lining Flex zones Padded ankle IMS midsole Exoskeleton support system Vibram sole unit
The Transalpina is designed to be used for longer walks and treks and to reduce wearer fatigue and foot stress. The key to the Transalpinas comfort and support is the ingenious IMS 3 system. IMS 3 combines the outersole, an exoskeleton support structure and a 3D anatomical fit midsole. The outsole is exclusive to AKU and is a lightweight deep lugged Vibram unit combining durability with traction and stability. Cushioning and support is provided by the internal PU and EVA midsole which then extends up and around the heel to provide additional support and pronation control. The IMS 3D midsole provides a natural rolling flex to the boot without it being too soft or too stiff. The design of the midsole itself mimics the foot shape to cradle the foot in a natural position reducing fatigue and internal movement. The internal shape of the boot is dictated by the last, a solid form that the boot is built around, and AKU use a special anatomical last which gives room around the metatarsal heads (toe joints) and control and support in the heel area minimising slippage and friction. AKU are one of very few manufacturers to make their boots with the last inside the boot throughout the production process. Whilst this may take longer, and increase cost, it does ensure the boot retains its shape integrity, resulting in a fit that remains true for the life of the boot. To further enhance your comfort and security the lacing system uses rollers to allow an even and smooth lace pull eliminating tight spots. The uppers are a mixture of leather and synthetic materials to provide durability and breathability. The synthetic material is made from Air 8000, an incredibly breathable material that breathes 11 times better than traditionally made fabric boots, and is fully Gore-Tex lined for complete waterproofness. All together the Transalpina is a supremely comfortable and high performance trekking boot suitable for walking in varied terrain and for longer treks in the mountains. Custom Vibram sole unit Suede and Air 8000 uppers Gore-Tex lined PU Exoskeleton IMS 3 support system
This fabulous high quality boot is perfect for high treks and classic mountaineering. The lightweight construction and sensitive feel make it perfect for scrambling and crampon compatibility introduces winter capability. The Terrealte GTX is a brand new model from AKU and uses the new EXO-skeleton construction that provides superb stability and comfort with minimal weight. This gorgeous boot has been designed and produced in AKUs Italian factory and is perfect for work and play in the high mountains in all conditions. It is comfortable enough for long treks and technical adventures and has the strength and support to accept semi-automatic crampons for winter activities, a true all mountain boot. The key to the comfort and stability of AKU boots is their IMS system. Normally the midsole (the boots backbone) is made from a flat stiff board or plate, but IMS uses a 3D anatomically shaped carbon midsole that cradles the foot in a natural position reducing internal movement and encouraging a naturally relaxed foot. What this means is that your feet feel less tired as they are not constantly working to provide support, the IMS is doing all that. The modular sole unit of the Terrealte has been constructed using the new Exoskeleton construction which provides protection and stability without compromising the weight of the boot. The Exoskeleton is made up of a softer material to absorb impact shock and a more rigid material to provide stability, lateral retention and the perfect torsional rigidity. A Vibram Mulaz low profile outer sole has a dedicated climbing area for secure grip on rock with enough tread for trekking duties. Robust and high quality suede uppers combined with the superb Air 8000 technology provide support and very high levels of breathability. Air 8000 technology is used to laminate the Gore-Tex membrane with the uppers to provide breathability levels 11 times greater than traditionally constructed boots. Flex zones at the ankle provide freedom of movement for trekking without compromising support for more technical use and an integrated gaiter keeps snow and debris out of the boots. Lacing is controlled through steel roller eyelets that allow an even lace pull right form the toe to the ankle. Lace tension can be separated between ankle and lower foot with a locking cleat. A full rubber rand protects the uppers form abrasion and is thicker on the instep where most contact occurs. A brilliant and superbly comfortable B2 rated boot for all mountain adventures. Suede and Air 8000n uppers Vibram Mulaz sole unit IMS 3 comfort and support Gore-Tex lined Performance fit Exoskeleton support system
The Delta Activ GTX gets its name from the ActivFit technologies that combine to make this beautiful boot so comfortable and capable. Four main elements, the BD last, the outer sole, ergonomic design and the footbed combine to give you a high performance boot that will be instantly comfortable and remain that way. Auto foam inserts in the heel mould to your body shape providing cushioned support reduce heel lift eliminating blisters. The high tech sole unit combines biometrically design sole pattern to aid a natural heel to toe transition whilst providing traction. Underfoot cushioning is maintained with dual density PU, and not just any ordinary PU, this stuff is produced in highly scientific environments to maintain the highest performance and quality standards. The thermo plastic (TPU) midsole give the Delta its internal strength and progressive flex. Topping off all this amazing technology is an upper made from the highest quality calf leather lined with Gore-Tex for total belt and braces waterproofing.
The Delta Activ Leather gets its name from the ActivFit technologies that combine to make this beautiful boot so comfortable and capable. Four main elements, the BD last, the outer sole, ergonomic design and the footbed combine to give you a high performance boot that will be instantly comfortable and remain that way. Auto foam inserts in the heel mould to your body shape providing cushioned support and reduce heel lift eliminating blisters. The high tech sole unit combines biometrically designed sole pattern to aid a natural heel to toe transition whilst providing traction. Underfoot cushioning is maintained with dual density PU, and not just any ordinary PU, this stuff is produced in highly scientific environments to maintain the highest performance and quality standards. The thermo plastic (TPU) midsole give the Delta its internal strength and progressive flex. Topping off all this amazing technology is an upper made from the highest quality calf leather lined with soft calf leather for maximum breathability. If cared for correctly this combination of leathers will keep out virtually all water, but they are not guaranteed waterproof.