Mountaineering Boots

The specificity of mountaineering boots: their compatibility with crampons

As opposed to simple hiking boots, mountaineering boots are designed to face snow and ice. To do so, you need steel mountaineering crampons. These crampons guarantee good grip on icy surfaces and rocks. For crampons to stay in place under the boots, the outsole of the latter must be stiff. This explains why mountaineering boots have reinforced semi-stiff or completely stiff outsoles, as one of the main hazards of alpinism is losing a crampon mid-route.

There are 2 types of crampon bindings:

• Hybrid/Semi-automatic
• Step-in/Automatic

B2 mountaineering boots compatible with hybrid crampons have only a back notch, designed to accommodate the locking lever of the crampons. On the toe area, the boot doesn’t have a notch and the crampon is secured thanks to straps.

B3 mountaineering boots compatible with step-in crampons feature notches at the front and back. The crampon can be locked in a single motion. This type of fully automatic crampon boot offers the best robustness for high-altitude routes.

What sets summer mountaineering boots and those for winter routes apart?

Climbing 4000-metre-tall peaks in summer or attempting the Grandes Jorasses north face in winter isn’t the same thing. For mountaineering in good weather, you can pick lighter summer mountaineering boots. The thermal insulation will remain efficient without causing overheating. On the other hand, winter mountaineering and alpine boots are more insulated to offer maximum warmth. The caveat being the weight penalty, however, they will allow you to summit the most difficult peaks, even in the Himalayans.

Mountaineering boots from big names such as La Sportiva, Millet, Scarpa or Asolo: solid value

When committing to a high-altitude route, it is critical to trust your equipment, and especially your mountaineering boots. Better rely on trusted brands that have taken part in the greatest expeditions and offer products that benefit from these experiences. You'll enjoy optimal comfort and reliability to come back safely and keep all your toes.

How to choose the size of your mountaineering boots? How to size them?

Mountaineering boots are sized similarly to hiking boots. No need to pick a boot that is too big. Your heel should be locked at the rear of the boot and the toes need enough room at the front, in the toe box. Intense cold is the alpinist’s worst nightmare. If your toes are too snug, you can endure frostbite, but a mountaineering boot that is too big can cause blisters. Most modern alpine boots have heat-mouldable internal foams that will conform to the contours of your feet.

How to choose your men’s and women’s mountaineering and alpine boots?

Mountaineering boots are characterised by their rand on the front or around the entire boot for maximum protection, as well as self-looking hooks to prevent unwanted untying of the laces. They have outsoles and uppers of varying stiffness, depending on your use. For high-altitude, you need a technical mountaineering boot, compatible with crampons for ice sections, while for shorter climbs, a classic mountaineering boot will do. You'll find models with Gore-Tex membrane or efficient insulation to face poor weather conditions. Take the time to find the right model for your needs and don’t hesitate to contact our experts to choose the right equipment and challenge yourself on icy, snowy and rocky mountain slopes.