14 best lightweight mountaineering boots
Lightweight mountaineering boots are specialized footwear designed for use in mountaineering and alpine climbing activities.These boots are a critical piece of equipment for climbers, providing support, protection, and traction in challenging and often harsh mountain environments.
Key features of lightweight mountaineering boots include:
Lightweight Construction: These boots are made with lightweight materials to reduce the overall weight on the climber's feet, enhancing mobility and reducing fatigue during long ascents.
Durability and Protection: Despite their lightweight design, these boots are crafted to be durable and provide ample protection for the feet. They often have reinforced toe caps and additional layers of protective materials to shield against sharp rocks, ice, and other hazards.
Waterproofing and Breathability: Many lightweight mountaineering boots are equipped with waterproof membranes to keep the feet dry in wet conditions. They also incorporate breathability features to allow moisture and heat to escape, maintaining a comfortable internal environment.
Ankle Support: Mountaineering boots typically have a higher profile to provide excellent ankle support. This helps in stabilizing the ankle on uneven terrain and protects against sprains.
Crampon Compatibility: These boots are designed to be compatible with crampons, essential for secure footing on ice and hard snow. They have rigid soles that can accommodate different types of crampons, enhancing traction and safety.
Traction and Grip: The outsoles of lightweight mountaineering boots are equipped with aggressive tread patterns and specialized rubber compounds to ensure grip on various surfaces, including rock, ice, and mixed terrain.
Lacing Systems: They often feature sophisticated lacing systems, allowing for a precise and snug fit. This is crucial for maintaining control and comfort during climbs.
Insulation: Depending on the intended use and environment, lightweight mountaineering boots may have varying degrees of insulation to keep the feet warm in cold temperatures and at high altitudes.
Overall, lightweight mountaineering boots are designed to offer a balance between weight reduction and performance, making them suitable for demanding alpine expeditions and climbing adventures. It's important for climbers to choose boots that suit their specific needs and the conditions they will encounter during their climbs.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best lightweight mountaineering boots on the market
Salewa Crow GTX Mountaineering Boot - Men's
Salewa
- 100% Suede
- Imported
- Synthetic sole
- Shaft measures approximately 5.5" from arch
- GORE-TEX PERFORMANCE COMFORT LINING: Breathable Gore-Tex liner allows your feet to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions.
- VIBRAM MULAZ SOLE: A stiff midsole and crampon compatible construction offer optimal traction and surefootedness on mixed terrain.
- LEATHER UPPER & FULL RUBBER RAND: 1.6mm suede leather with abrasion resistant fabric upper. 360° full rubber rand.
User questions & answers
| Question: | how waterproof is this boot |
| Answer: | Even though I use my Timberland Flume boots for yard work as well as hiking, they are not steel toe boots. |
| Question: | can i use it with crampons |
| Answer: | Mine weigh in at 1.1 kg, I'm sure bigger the size, the more they'll weigh |
| Question: | is it compatible with semi automatic crampons |
| Answer: | I don't see why not. I supposed they will still show brown but darker and darker with repeated applications. If you're after black boots, try a blackdye before |
| Question: | Would these be suitable for a spring/summer ascent of mount rainier |
| Answer: | Ethylene Vinyl Acetate - it is considered Eco friendly and is used in a lot of footwear nowdays |
Product features
CROW GORE-TEX MEN'S SHOES
The Crow GTX is a versatile mountaineering boot with an abrasion-resistant fabric upper and waterproof GORE-TEX protection.Designed for mixed summer use on general alpine terrain and alpine trekking, the Crow GTX has a crampon-compatible Vibram New Mulaz sole.The Crow GTX integrates SALEWA technologies to offer the Alpine Fit 100% blister free.
La Sportiva Men's Spantik Boot
La Sportiva
Product description
The Spantik is perfect for 6000-7000 meter peaks or anywhere that you need a toasty warm performance fit. This is a lighter, warmer more compact alternative to the Nuptse. It is step-in crampon compatible and provides excellent technical climbing capabilities. Ideal terrain: 6000-7000 meter peaks or high cold mountaineering conditions
- 100% Leather
- OUTER BOOT: PU-Tech transparent, PU-coated, embossed Benecke CeraCom PUR leatherette / Water-repellent Lorica with Antiacqua external coating / Vibram rubber rand / Molded TPU ankle backstay reinforcement / PE micro-cellular thermal insulating closed cell foam lined with a thermo-reflective aluminum facing coated with an anti-abrasion flocking coated with an anti-abrasion flocking
- INNER BOOT: Micro-perforated thermo-formable PE / Water-repellent Lorica with Antiacqua external coating
- INSOLE: 5mm thermal structure carbon fiber and aluminum insulation
- MIDSOLE: TPU / Dual-density Micropore EVA
- WEIGHT: 44.48 oz (1261g)
Scarpa Men's Zodiac Tech Gtx Mountaineering Boot
Scarpa
Product description
Perfect for those situations when an approach shoe isn't enough and a full-on mountain boot is too much, the zodiac tech gtx fuses a technically precise fit with a durable, weatherproof design that handles everything from the massive approach to the summit snow slopes
Innovation and tradition share equally deep roots at SCARPA, a muti-generational, family-owned business whose headquarters and manufacturing facilities are in the same region of northern Italy where it was founded in 1938. SCARPA builds performance footwear for climbing, hiking, skiing, mountaineering, trail-running and other outdoor pursuits. Aside from being the Italian word for "shoe," SCARPA is an acronym for Societa Calzaturiera Asolana Riunita Pedemontana Anonima (Associated Shoe Manufacturing Company of the Asolo Mountain Area).
- 100% Suede
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately 6" from arch
- Gore-Tex membrane provides breathable, waterproof protection
- Sock-Fit construction reduces bulk and enhances fit
- Extended rubber rand for performance and protection
User questions & answers
| Question: | How warm are these boots? I am looking to use these for the summer months in the lower 48 and don't want my feet in an oven |
| Answer: | I believe 11 1/2 equates to 45 |
| Question: | What is the made in country for these shoes ? scarpa shoes are made in various countries including italy, romania, china etc. where were these made |
| Answer: | displays both sizings. |
| Question: | What size do I need to order for a US |
| Answer: | Depends on th3 socks you plan to wear- Go up 1/2 if thick, otherwise Reg socks same size. Also consider width- If you have a big thick foot +1/2 size. Narrow foot same shoe size. Great boots |
| Question: | What size u.s. do i need to order for 45.5 eu |
| Answer: | The parts are made many countries, but assembled in Italy |
La Sportiva Men's Glacier WLF Hiking Boot - Men's
Product description
The La Sportiva Glacier WLF Wildland Firefighting Boot is a go-to for many backcountry pros and firefighters looking for a break from their traditional heavy duty front line boots. Based on a mountaineering boot, these are lightweight, comfortable, yet durable boots that still provide the heat resistance, ankle height, and metal shank required by Federal standards for most work. You don’t have to be on a fire crew to appreciate these either; they’re a great option for backpackers looking for a rugged boot with high ankle protection, that will stand the test of time, and that’s multi use for work and adventure. Heat-resistant sole with a rubber compound that is resistant to 300°C and a glue that is resistant to 70° C. Heat activated glue WILL delaminate when exposed to fire or heat. (This delam is not covered under warranty.) This boot is NOT designed for frontline firefighting.
- 100% Leather
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately 8" from arch
- HEAT RESISTANT rubber up to 300c, glue to 70c and 8-inch boot height meet US federal standards for wildland firefighters, post-fire clean-up but not front-line firefighting.
- DURABLE mountaineering style work boot that is tough enough for wildland, forestry, backpacking and trail building work; Roughout leather upper block out moisture on the jobsite and in the backcountry
- LIGHTWEIGHT materials maintain breathability and keeps boot weight low without sacrificing the dependability fire fighters, Forest Service professionals, winter backpackers and thru hikers demand
- HALF STEEL SHANK protects your feet from sharp objects; MtnFlex sole give just the right amount of comfort you won’t see in a heavy-duty boot
- VIBRAM ICE SOLE give you traction across mud, rocky terrain, sand and other conditions found while back packing or working in land management, wild land firefighting, forestry, BLM and hotshot crews
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the toe composite or steel |
| Answer: | There are two packages inside one plastic bag .Each of those bags contains 7 rice cakes. |
| Question: | If im a size 11 what size do i need to get and what is the weight of these boots |
| Answer: | you must be jokin because im not paying 22 bucks for a 4 pack that comes to $3.28 a pack for 4 that's only $13,12 that is a rip off puhleese you better go back and do your math again |
| Question: | My size is 9.5 what size should I get |
| Answer: | No, each cake is not packaged individually. |
| Question: | Are these boots waterproof |
| Answer: | One package of 4 different flavors |
SCARPA unisex-adult Fuego-u
Scarpa
- 100% Leather
- Vibram sole
- Heel measures approximately 1.5 inches"
- Boot opening measures approximately 15" around
- Classically styled mountain boot.
- Double tongue for an excellent fit.
- Gusseted tongue for complete protection.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Are the shoe laces on these boots leather |
| Answer: | Hi there. These boots are not Steel toe boots. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions. All the best! |
| Question: | Are the sizes to select from in USA mens or women's |
| Answer: | 44.5 |
| Question: | What is the heel height |
| Answer: | Depends on your foot shape and what you are going to use them for. I bought mine a half size larger so I could wear thicker socks since I was doing pretty arduous hikes but if you intend to do more moderate hiking I would probably say go with the same size you are fitted for. |
| Question: | do these boots measure 8 inches from heel to top of boot |
| Answer: | These boots due quite well and keep the feet dry when they are brand new, if you plan on fighting fire in them you will have to keep maintenance up to keep them waterproof. Ive fought many fires in them and the stitching is torn mid foot so it seeps water now. |
SCARPA Grand Dru GTX Mountaineering Boot - Men's Forest 43.5
SCARPA
Product description
The ultimate workhorse mountain boot beloved by backcountry guides, mountain hunters and wilderness workers, the Grand Dru GTX provides serious support and protection in rugged environments, with a full-coverage rand and a durable suede leather upper.
- Scarpa
BOIWANMA Men’s Waterproof Hiking Boots Non-Slip Outdoor Lightweight Warm Breathable Ankle Support Shoes for Mountaineering, Trekking, Fishing, Camping, Backpacking
BOIWANMA
- Rubber sole
- HIGH-QUALITY BOOTS: Our Waterproof Hiking Boots meet ASTM standard, the upper of the hiking boots are made of waterproof “Crazy Horse Leather” and nylon, the lining of the boot is made of advanced waterproof material that is windproof and breathable, with excellent air permeability and good durability
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: The rubber toe reinforcement can protect your foot from an unexpected collision, the two-density outsoles are made of EVA and RUBBER that is lightweight and comfortable, the quick lace-up closure allows for easy adjustments and the heel pull strap makes it easy to wear on
- WATERPROOF & ANTI-SLIP: With waterproof leather, waterproof bootie, and our connection technology provides a strong guarantee for the waterproof function of shoes, the special sole pattern ensures solid footing on various rough grounds and surfaces.This boot can meet ASTM F2892-18 standard, with electronic harzard 18KV.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & COMFORTABLE: Featuring our lightweight, durable midsole for long-lasting comfort, and the comfort impact absorption system can reduce fatigue caused by long walking hours. Our hiking boots are designed for daily walking, working, and outdoor sports such as hiking, camping, climbing, fishing, backpacking, mountaineering, traveling, and light industry
- MORE WIDE OPTIONS: We specially set up wide safety shoes to give you more choices. Please refer to our size chart to choose the most suitable size. If you have any questions, our professional after-sales team will give you professional answers within 12H
Product features
Electric shock resistance is up to “18kv”
Electric shock resistance is up to “18kv”
Comfortable Safety Shoes for You
For indoor and outdoor work sites, such as construction, welding, electrical, road work, manufacturing factory, warehouse, transportation, industry, repairing shop, gas station, etc
Tough Rubber Soles
Non-marking rubber soles are resistant to oil, slip, chemicals and heat, ensure the work shoes are durable and comfortable for hiking or working on feet all day
Safe & Tough
The work shoes are made of high-quality leather with a high heat-resistance level. Wear them in construction work and never worry about the safety of your feet!
Protective Steel-Toe
The steel-toes are designed to prevent injuries due to cuts, punctures, slip and falls etc.
Salewa Rapace GTX Mountaineering Boot - Men's
Salewa North America
- 100% Leather
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- Shaft measures approximately ankle-high from arch
- GORE-TEX PERFORMANCE COMFORT LINING: Breathable Gore-Tex liner allows your feet to stay comfortable in changing weather conditions.
- VIBRAM WRAPTHREAD COMBI SOLE: A lightweight Vibram sole and the dual-density Bilight Technology midsole offer increased comfort during travel in mixed and technical terrain.
- 360° FULL RUBBER RAND: Durable 360° full rubber rand, and stiff crampon compatible midsole.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the 11.5 in usa size the 45.5 in euro on the tag in the boot |
| Answer: | These charms are stainless steel and should hold up in any temperatures! |
| Question: | Is this uk import product displaying uk or us sizing? im am looking for a us |
| Answer: | The hole is about 2 mm, thanks. |
| Question: | So they would be the same size as if I was buying a regular shoe |
| Answer: | These charms are made of stainless steel. |
| Question: | in wich country this boots are made it |
| Answer: | No jiat the charms are in this package |
Product features
RAPACE GORE-TEX MEN'S SHOES
The Rapace GTX is a lightweight mountaineering boot that teams a hard-wearing nubuck and fabric upper with waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX protection.
Secure grip meets comfort and support – SALEWA’s solution for via ferratas mountaineering. Inside the boot, SALEWA’s Bilight technology in the midsole ensures an ergonomic hold and long-lasting cushioning for extended comfort compared to the traditional sole packs. The Rapace GTX is also stiff enough for use with semi-automatic crampons.
Asolo Men's Freney XT GV Climbing Boot
Asolo
Product description
Water-resistant Schoeller K-Tech upper. Insulated, waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex lining. Provided with a Vibram outsole offering maximum support and torsonial stability, adaptable to semi-automatic crampons. The right choice in terms of lighteness and technology. A revolutionnary compact boot, able to guarantee maximum performance and agility.
- Vibram sole
- Innovative footwear
Scarpa Wrangell GTX Mountaineering Boot
Scarpa
Product description
The Scarpa Wrangell GTX is a heavy-duty mountaineering boot that excels under big loads and on rugged terrain
Innovation and tradition share equally deep roots at SCARPA, a muti-generational, family-owned business whose headquarters and manufacturing facilities are in the same region of northern Italy where it was founded in 1938. SCARPA builds performance footwear for climbing, hiking, skiing, mountaineering, trail-running and other outdoor pursuits. Aside from being the Italian word for "shoe," SCARPA is an acronym for Societa Calzaturiera Asolana Riunita Pedemontana Anonima (Associated Shoe Manufacturing Company of the Asolo Mountain Area).
- 100% Leather
- Vibram sole
- Heel measures approximately 1.75 inches"
- Boot opening measures approximately 13" around
- GORE-TEX waterproof lining
- Comfort ankle flex zone
- Protective double-tongue fit
User questions & answers
| Question: | Are these insulated and rated |
| Answer: | The laces on the Fuego are not leather. They are more of a standard boot lace. |
| Question: | are these nfpa approved |
| Answer: | Hello Christina, It appears to be that this specific boot is unisex. Below I have attached the link to Scarpa's site where the size description is listed if you scroll down. It will have a chart that compares European sizes to American Men's and Woman's sizes. I hope this fulfills your question. https://www.scarpa.com/fuego |
| Question: | How long are the laces? I need to replace them |
| Answer: | Tall enough for fire fighting |
| Question: | Does anyone have shank information? Do they have a steel shank? Is it double or triple? Is the shank full or |
| Answer: | Sounds like a fire boot question? I haven't measured mine but use them as my fire boots, haven't ever gotten questioned on them and lots of other wildland folks wearing them too. Hope that helps |
SCARPA Inverno Mountaineering Boot
Scarpa
Product description
The high-altitude cold-weather workhorse, SCARPA's Inverno. We have friends who snow-make in them, others who've summited Denali in them, and still more who pull them out any time it's frigid. We produce them in our Italian factory with Pebax, so they won't stiffen in the cold. We designed them with just enough rocker to help you walk and the high-altitude liner insulates down to Alaska temps. Probably the most widely used plastic double-boot in the world today. A great value and Himalaya-worthy performance.
- Plastic
- Scarpa
- Upper: 100% Pebax
- Liner: High Altitude
User questions & answers
| Question: | How tall is this boot |
| Answer: | The boots are not insulated, but I've had no problems keeping my feet warm with the gore tex. |
| Question: | are these good for winter climbing/hiking conditions |
| Answer: | I believe so. These may be the best boots I've ever bought. Very comfortable and durable |
| Question: | is it true to size? I usually wear 10.5 shoes, trekking boots, etc. planning to buy these for aconcagua |
| Answer: | No idea i use paracord and just cut to length |
| Question: | Is the sizing option in men's or womens |
| Answer: | These boots do have full shank support, it is a B3 type boot, compatible with C3 crampons. My pair works very well with my Black Diamond full auto crampons. However I don't know if it is steel shank or nylon/plastic/whatever. Hope this helps :) |
Salewa Men's MS Condor EVO GTX M Mountaineering Boot
Salewa North America
Product description
FEATURES of the Salewa Men's MS Condor EVO GTX Boot Gore-Tex Vibram Multiple lasts 3S system combi 3F system EVO 3D system EVO
- 100% Full Rubber Rand/Perwanger Suede
- Imported
- Synthetic sole
- Shaft measures approximately 8" from arch
- Heel measures approximately 2.25"
- Platform measures approximately 1.5 inches
- 3s combi triple density micro porous rubber midsole for ultimate edging performance on rocks thermoplastic polyurethane insert at heel for perfect compatibility with semi automatic crampons
User questions & answers
| Question: | Hi, I am prone to blisters on my ankles, has anyone gotten blisters from wearing these? Thanks |
| Answer: | Men's. Order 1/2 size bigger than your hiking boots. |
Salewa Vultur Evo GTX Mountaineering Boot
Product description
- The mountain trail may be difficult and the weather fierce, but the Salewa™ Vultur Evo GTX® has the protective construction, internal comfort, and long-lasting traction to keep you going strong every step of the way.
- Superfabric® and microfiber upper with a 360° rubber rand for added foot protection against rocks and other trail debris.
- Mountaineering boot is crampon compatible (crampons not included).
- Mid-boot design with flexible collar provides more comfort to the ankle area.
- Waterproof GORE-TEX® Insulated Comfort lining keeps out both the wet and the cold for a warm and dry foot environment.
- The SALEWA "Y" design connects to the 3D lacing system and spreads the lacing force onto the whole foot, allowing for easier control of the heel movement.
- Climbing lacing system provides a more accurate lacing in the toe area, which gives more support and allows for better performance.
- Customizable MMF+ Multi-Fit Footbed is a three-dimensional body defined by length, width, and height, allowing even adjustability for an individual fit.
- Cleansport NXT® odor control features 100% fresh silver that reduces that causes odors.
- Durable Vibram® SALEWA PRO outsole provides incredible stability and grip on various terrain.
- Imported.
- Measurements:
- Weight: 2 lbs 7 oz
- Shaft: 8 in
- Product measurements were taken using size 12, width M. Please note that measurements may vary by size.
- Weight of footwear is based on a single item, not a pair.
- Gore-Tex
La Sportiva Men's Makalu Mountaineering Boot
La Sportiva
Product description
- Please click here for the La Sportiva Size Conversion.
- Made for mountaineering and heavy backpacking.
- Rollerball hardware and a locking D-ring allow independent fit in the lower and upper portions of the boot.
- Dry-Best® lining for water-resistance.
- Features an MPE sole (MPE stands for Mountaineering Performance Evolution): This proprietary sole features a dual-density SBR design, an SBR Aircushion, self-cleaning lugs, and automatic crampon compatibility.
- MPE Sole is crampon compatible, deep lugged and tough as nails for years of service in the harshest conditions.
- Features a 3mm Idro-Perwanger leather with rubber toe rand for durability and protection in all mountaineering applications.
- 8mm Mtnflex insole with a 1.5mm Dacromet-coated full steel shank.
- Weight of footwear is based on single item, not the pair.
- 100% Leather
- Rubber sole
- Upper Material: Idro-Perwanger roughout leather (3mm), Vibram rubber rand
- Lining: Dry-Best
- Footbed: MtnFlex (8mm)
- Midsole: SBR aircushion, Dacromet-coated full steel shank (1.5mm)
- Sole: Skywalker MPE
User questions & answers
| Question: | what's a good way to give more protection to the leather? mink oil? boot oil |
| Answer: | I have never received a blister. After all day hiking I can assure you your feet will hurt but no blisters. I wear good socks. |
| Question: | Where is it made |
| Answer: | Boots are perfect for ice and snow. I climbed Mt Rainier with them this June. All boots like this are meant to be worn with gaiters to prevent snow from coming in from the top. |
| Question: | Do they have composit or steel toe |
| Answer: | Yes |
| Question: | I wear size 10 boot or 43 in euro I guess. I have a size 43 la sportiva hiking boot would a size 43 in these be the same size |
| Answer: | I wear size 12 sneakers and boots so I bought size 12 scarpa Invernos and even with thick socks they are too big. I should have bought size 11. |
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