HEAD TO HEAD
For stiffness, support and sure-footed traction, crampon-compatible MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS are essential for your snowy winter expeditions.
LACING
A good lacing system will stretch from the toe to ankle, with ample eyelets, hooks and cleats for a fined-tuned, secure fit. This can be loosened when walking and then cinched-in snugly when crampons are on.
SUPPORT, CUSHIONING & PROTECTION
In winter you’ll be carrying a heavier backpack, so additional support and cushioning is vital. A strong and sturdy ankle cuff – with a high profile – will provide additional ankle stability, while a midsole with plenty of underfoot cushioning and shock absorption will enhance all-day comfort. In terms of uppers, most modern manufacturers use a mix of leather and synthetic materials to ensure impressive durability.
WEIGHT
Winter boots are often very heavy, up to 1kg per boot. Some lighter models are available, but remember there is always a compromise between weight and warmth, durability, and protection.
WATERPROOF MEMBRANE
A waterproof-breathable membrane liner – often in the form of a sock-like inner – will help keep your feet dry. This is often Gore-Tex or may be a brand’s proprietary technology.
HEEL
A stiffened internal cup at the heel helps to lock the foot in place and offers additional stability and support, preventing heel lift or slippage.
A pronounced heel brake on the outsole enables downhill braking and is useful when heel plunging in snow for traction.
THE SOLE AS A TOOL
The edges and lugs of a mountaineering boot’s sole should be stiff, aggressive and snow-shedding, made from hard-wearing rubber with a big, blocky design. This not only provides solid traction underfoot, but enables the boot to be used as a tool: kicking steps into snow with the toe, chopping ledges with the outer edge or stamping platforms with the heel. A stiff boot also enables you to ‘edge’ (find secure footing) into snow and ice with each step, with a slicing or scuffing movement.
FIT
The stiffness of winter boots means a good fit is absolutely crucial – it’s the most important consideration. A pair that are the wrong last (shape), width and volume for your feet will be blister-inducing. Things to avoid are heel slippage and excessive tightness around the toes. Your best bet is to try for size in a shop, ideally with a skilled boot fitter. Aim for a fit that is comfy, secure and precise, but simultaneously not too restrictive or tight – it’s a tricky balance to strike.
RATINGS & CRAMPON COMPATIBILITY
Mountaineering boots are graded
