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MOUNTAIN BOOTS | | |
| | BUYERS BEWARE!!! Sizing on boots varies a great deal. This is true, not only between different companies but also between different models from the same manufacturers. As most boots are still hand-made, even the same sizes in the same model can vary! When you take all these factors into account, buying boots unseen over the internet is not recommended. Therefore this service is intended for those who have already worked out what size and model they require but for one reason or another cannot get to a shop to make their purchase. PLEASE NOTE, that we cannot under any circumstances at all accept returns of any boots that have been "used" - not even a little bit! This includes a "just a few minutes outside to see what they feel like". Please try your boots on in your own home when you receive them. If you are unhappy with the fit we will refund or replace them provided that they are returned with their packaging and in (in our opinion) "as new" condition. Whilst postage is free on the first pair sent, return postage is not, and on any subsequent pairs sent would be charged at cost. | | |
 Boot/Crampon Compatibility: Many manufacturers now rate their mountain boots for stiffness and the type of use they are designed for:
B0: Not really suitable for crampons.
B1: Flexible boots that are suitable for trekking and hill walking only. C1 crampons only.
B2: Semi-rigid boots designed for mountaineering and easier grade snow and mixed climbing, but not for steep ice and harder mixed climbs. C1 or C2 crampons.
B3: Fully rigid boots for mountaineering, ice and mixed climbing at all grades - but not always the most comfortable boots to walk in (though things are improving). C1, C2 or C3 crampons.
Crampons: These should be no stiffer than your boots or they may fall off.
C1: Flexible (eg Kahtoola, Grivel G10)
C2: Semi-rigid (eg Grivel Airtech, G12, G14)
C3: Rigid (eg Grivel Rambo, DMM Terminator)
Thus:
| Boot Rating | Crampons | | B1 | C1 | | B2 | C1-C2 | | B3 | C1-C2-C3 |
Binding System: In addition the binding system should be suitable for the boot. There are currently four main types of binding systems.
Strap On: (this includes plastic "basket" type systems such as Grivel's New Classic): Will fit all boots.
Semi Step In: (eg Grivel's Newmatic): Will only fit boots with a proper heel welt designed for semi step in crampons.
Full Step In: (eg Grivel's Crampomatic Binding): Will only fit boots with a proper heel and toe welt designed for full step in crampons.
GSB (Grivel-Scarpa Binding): Will only fit boots designed specifically for GSB Bindings.
Be aware that some boots have step in heel welts to make them look "techy" even if they're not. If in doubt a modern type Strap On crampon (eg New Classic binding) is best. | | |
| | Fit: Scarpa also have good advice on fitting boots here. Please note that sizes given are UK or Continental - not USA. Click here for a boot size comparison chart. | | |
Usage: We are often asked "Is this boot suitable for Rum Doodle", or somewhere of that ilk. Beyond the obvious ie that a thin 3 season leather boot is not going to keep your toes warm on Everest, it is hard to be precise on this issue. Some manufacturers are cautious and so may undersell the capabilities of their boots, while others may do the opposite. The way the boot is fitted makes a big difference too. A relaxed fit, with room inside for a medium thick sock, plus a thick mountain sock, and room to wiggle your toes will make a boot a lot warmer than fitting half a size lower and just having room for the mountain sock. Use of an overgaiter increases the warmth. Finally people feel the cold differently. With all those factors in mind we have given an approximate idea of what each boot is capable of - but it is only a guide. Standard plastic boots have been used on many successful Everest attempts and modern leather boots have been seen on top of Aconcagua - so often you can get away with things that the boots weren't really designed for. At the same time, you might meet with considerably colder temperatures than normal - so don't blame us if all your toes fall off! Ultimately there is no 100% correct foolproof answer.
Thermo-fitted inners, long used in ski boots, have finally made it into the climbing world, and provide more warmth for less weight. Ideally they need to be fitted in the shop by one of our trained personel. However all these boots can be used without thermo-fitting the inners or you can contact us for instructions. It is possible to thermo fit the inner for a standard fit or for a more relaxed fit by wearing different thicknesses of socks. | |
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