Specification

Uppers: Leather / Suede / Fabric
Protection: Full rubber randing
Lining: Gore-Tex Waterproof
Weight: 920g a pair (for size Eur 42 / UK 8)
Rating: B2
Crampon: C2 (Semi-Rigid)
Midsole: Die-cut EVA
Sole: Vibram rubber

In Use

The very first time I used these boots was straight out of the box in Scotland with no time to break them in. After 8 hours of winter mountaineering my feet had no blisters, hot spots, or even any soreness. The same type of boots were used by myself and two friends a month later in the Slovenian Alps over icy terrain and deep snow conditions for a week. Again, no problems with comfort.

Technical

Waterproofing = The Gore-Tex liner keeps my feet dry in wet snow conditions, some dampness is noticeable from condensation.

Warmth = Very good due to the Gore-Tex trapping a layer of air. Standing around nut-deep in snow doesn't pose a problem. I think the limit would be 4000m in 'full conditions' after that go for plastics or synthetic insulated leather. (Scarpa Cumbre etc...)

Crampons = I use Grivel G12's with the New-Matic binding. A worn out ex-rental Black Diamond Contact Strap also worked fine. Straight sole so probably no need for a curved bar.

Fit = Good secure heel, padding to suit wide or narrow heel. Mid section not too obtrusive, held foot well when front pointing. High volume toe box to suit a wide foot and / or thick sock. Ankles flex for steep terrain but secure on descent with support from internal heel cup.

Lacing = Speed lacing with ball-bearing eyelets to 'self equalise'. D-ring lock off to customise upper and lower lacing as terrain demands or personal preference.

Extras = Two HUGE pull tabs makes it very easy to get boots on or off, even when wearing mitts.

Conclusion

I would recommend these to anyone after an all-round Scottish winter or Alpine mountaineering boot. The boot peforms like a top end B2 on steep snow slopes and icy terrain but feels as comfy as a B1 for walking in. I have also used these on some Via-Ferrata routes where they worked very well on stemples, cables, rock features, scree and loose boulders.

Pros

Light weight
Excellent support
Durable
Huge on / off tabs
'Extreme' colouring

Cons

Slight condensation

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