You will agree that mountaineering boots are potentially the most essential bit of gear you will need to survive in the mountains. Without them, you could find yourself stranded in dangerous conditions or struggling to get to your destination.
Finding good quality boots, that will get you safely and comfortably up the mountain, shouldn’t be as difficult as it usually seems. Finding the best mountaineering boots can be as simple as you want it to be when you get the right kind of help.
With this article you’re going to see a number of great options for mountaineering boots that will help you prepare for your next trip and feel comfortable no matter where you go. So make sure you’re checking out what we’ve found.
Our Top Picks
| Product Name | Sizes | Waterproof | Material | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Sportiva Batura 2.0 | 42 – 46.5 | Yes | Synthetic | Check price on Amazon |
| Salewa MS Pro | 10 | Yes | Textile | Check price on Amazon |
| Salewa MS Raven | 9 | Yes | Polyurethane/leather | Check price on Amazon |
| La Sportiva Nepal | 37.5 – 48 | Yes | Synthetic | Check price on Amazon |
| Scarpa Phantom | 39.5 – 45 | Yes | Cordura | Check price on Amazon |
| La Sportiva Spantik | 38.5 – 47 | Yes | Leather | Check price on Amazon |
| Scarpa Fuego | 38 – 48 | Yes | Leather | Check price on Amazon |
| Scarpa Inverno | 4.5 – 12.5 | Yes | Synthetic | Check price on Amazon |
Things to Consider before Buying
If you are a beginner and you have no knowledge about mountaineering boots, you will need to get more familiar with styles and what to keep an eye on when looking for a perfect pair for your adventures. Here are the important things that you need to know.
Boot Style
When looking for mountaineering boots, you initially need to decide what boot style will be most suitable for your mountain adventures. Therefore, you need to prioritize your needs first. Boots can be divided into 3 main categories, which are as follows:
- Single Boots – Which feature a solitary boot upper and are lightweight and made for hard ice climbing situations.
- Double Boots – Which have an internal and external boot that can be separated and provide added warmth for icy areas.
- Super Gaiter Boots – Which has two layers that can’t be separated and have warmth, weather proofing and protection for cold and wet conditions.
Size
Most mountaineers think that if the boots are tight enough, they will add to the warmth and efficiency. Unfortunately, this isn’t true at all because you want boots that can keep you moving for an extended period. If your boots are too tight they can make it difficult to move around.
What you want are boots that let your toes move and don’t restrict blood flow. That means you need to try them on with your socks and try kicking something as hard as you can.
If your toes bump the end of the boot every time you kick, then you need to try a bigger size. The heel lift can be checked by trying to stand on a small edge under the toe welt of the boot.
Weight
The weight of mountaineering boots is as important as the weight of your backpack. This is because the weight of the boots plays an essential part in climbing. The lighter weight has its own advantages because you won’t get tired out as easily attempting to get one foot up after another on the mountain.
Sometimes you will have to sacrifice a little between weight and other features, however, so make sure that you are looking at other things. You don’t want to choose the lightest option only to find out it’s not as good on the terrain or with the weather.
Climbing Capacity
There are different types of material that you may end up climbing and you want to be sure that your boots are going to be prepared for all of those things. That includes:
- Rock Climbing – Boots with ankle flexibility, sole rock, thin soles and a narrow toe profile are designed for rock climbing.
- Ice Climbing – Boots that have a rigid sole will fit crampons more easily. They should also have upper support around the ankle and both front and back welts for step-in crampons.
- Hiking – If you have some flexibility in the sole, light weight and ankle support without restricting too much you’re going to have good boots for hiking.
Warmth
Warmth is a big factor for most of us in choosing the right product for outdoor use and that carries over to boots especially. What may be surprising though is that you need some air around your foot in order to keep it warm, so make sure you have shoes that fit comfortably and give a little bit of wiggle room.
Some boots are going to be warmer than others because of their thickness and their materials. Make sure you’re picking some that will work for the temperatures that you’re going to be climbing or hiking in and that are going to fit well.
Waterproofing
To keep your feet warm you need to keep them dry and waterproof boots will do that for you. When you are climbing on ice waterproof boots are really important to keep the moisture out so make sure that you look at what your boots offer.
You don’t want to just spray them with something later on even though that can add some waterproofing. You want boots that come with a waterproof lining and membrane to keep you dry no matter what. External sprays can lose their ability over time. If it’s built into the boot you’ll have waterproofing for a whole lot longer.
Reliability
If you’re going to purchase a good quality pair of mountaineering boots you’re going to spend a bit of money on them. That means you definitely don’t want a pair that are just going to fall apart on you before you’re ready to get new ones. You want something that is going to last.
Make sure you look over the boots carefully to get good quality and a strong material that is designed to stand up to a lot of hard abuse. You’re going to be wearing these boots through rough terrain, so just anything definitely isn’t going to do.
Best Products on Today’s Market
Choosing the right product for your next trip into the mountains means that you need to know what’s out there. Each of these boots are going to help you stay warm, dry and comfortable, no matter how long you’re planning to be gone.
La Sportiva Batura 2.0 Boots
Price: Approx. $700
Weight: 4.4 pounds
Sizes: 42 M – 46.5M, European sizes, including half sizes
Specific features: Synthetic, waterproof, breathable, Gore Tex lining, Lightweight
Best use: Mountaineering, backpacking
Description: These La Sportiva Batura 2.0 Boots are made of synthetic material with 2 layer Gore technology. This makes these boots perfect for cold weather and comfort. The Gor Tex lining is breathable and will keep your feet dry and warm, while the midsole of these boots has air cushioning to provide flexibility and comfort while you are walking.
Additionally, for excellent outer gaiter fit, these boots have an asymmetrical waterproof zipper. To provide rigidity the midsole is ultra-lightweight with honeycomb carbon and they have a super unique look that really makes them stand out when you’re hiking or mountain climbing.
It also works well with the Aircushion for softness and resilience while you’re walking for an extended period of time.
The boots feature an impact brake system that increases the braking power and lessens the impact force, which is a huge help in mountain climbing. They fit snugly, are warm, reliable, and comfortable no matter where you want to go hiking to or climbing to.
PROS:
- Unique look and style
- Great for cold conditions
- Light insulation
- Rigid midsole for support
- Gore-Tex lining for breathability and waterproofing
CONS:
- Toe box is small
- Boots overall run small
- High cost is not for everyone
Related: If you’re going to be out mountain climbing you need some goggles that are going to keep you protected while you go and these Julbo Sherpa Lenses are perfect for that. They have leather covers for the sides and are strong enough to protect you from glare even in the mountains.
Salewa MS Pro Boots
Price: Approx. $420
Weight: 2 pounds
Sizes: 10M
Specific features: Textile, imported, synthetic sole, waterproof, contrast stitching and padded tongue and collar
Best use: Mountaineering, camping, winter hiking
Description: The Salewa MS Pro Boots has a synthetic sole, which is adjustable and flexible d to become 100% stiff whenever you need it. The shoe has an anatomical style with its climbing toe profile, and multiple last to provide differentiated fit, which means no friction and blisters.
The Vibram sole of this boot, makes it perfect for ice climbing and glacial mountaineering. The segmentation on the sole makes it more perfect as well and the fabric used is reliable, abrasion resistant, breathable, lightweight, slash and flame resistant.
The 3F power is a combination of flexible ankle support as well as precision of fit which uses steel wire to help keep the heel positioned just right.
With Gore-Tex insulation to improve comfort and a pro outsole, these boots are designed to keep you warm and ready to go. The moderate weight means they’re easy enough to wear on trips up the mountain and the insulation is enough for most conditions without being too heavy.
PROS:
- Unique and stylish look
- Very waterproof
- Excellent fit out of the box
- Boots can be adjusted to preferred stiffness level
- No hotspots or rubbing
CONS:
- Insulation not for coldest trips
- High price is not for everyone
- Needs Allen wrench to adjust stiffness
Related: If you’re looking for some more casual hiking shoes you’ll definitely want to take a look at these Salewa Speed Ascent Shoes. They let you get up onto hills and some smaller mountains comfortably and easily with a less expensive shoe.
Salewa MS Raven Boots
Price: Approx. $340
Weight: 2 pounds
Sizes: 9M
Specific features: Vibram sole, waterproof, 3D lacing, polyurethane coated leather, multiple lasts
Best use: Mountaineering
Description: The Salewa MS Raven Boot is made of polyurethane coated fabric, which is completely water resistant. To give you an excellent performance while climbing on rocky trails, this boot has a triple density micro porous rubber midsole.
Crampon TPU inserts are included at the heel to ensure compatibility with most styles of crampons and multiple lasts will give differentiated fit for no rubbing and no blisters.
The 3D lacing system and three automatic locking points to provide full customization in fit keep you more comfortable while you’re hiking. The boot also provides flexible ankle support, and Gore Tex lining to keep your feet warm and dry.
Suitable for all seasons, these boots have flexible ankle support, and a precision fit while providing steel reinforcement through the heel.
They also have a Vibram Teton outsole that provides even more support and durability for the shoe under various conditions. Though a little bit heavier, these boots are still comfortable enough to wear wherever you want to go.
PROS:
- Crampon TPU inserts at heels
- Designed for all season wear
- Steel reinforced heel
- Lacing system tightens in three different areas
- Built-in gator cuff
CONS:
- Very rigid
- Insoles are not designed for comfort
- Run a little bit narrow
Related: If you’ll be out in the mountains a good helmet can be a great idea to protect you from falling debris. This Black Diamond Half Dome Helmet has a variety of color and size options and fits comfortably while keeping you plenty safe.
La Sportiva Nepal Boots
Price: Approx. $500
Weight: 6.7 pounds
Sizes: 37.5 – 48M
Specific features: Synthetic, 3D flex ankle, waterproof, breathable, EZ roller boot lacing system
Best use: Mountaineering, camping, hiking, trekking
Description: The La Sportiva Nepal Boot is made of synthetic material and features an innovative 3D flex ankle that provides lateral flexibility, while providing longitudinal lockout for exceptional support. To provide a perfect fit, it features a removable, adjustable and variable fit tongue.
Made with leather, the Gore Tex lining is waterproof and breathable and keeps you dry, warm and comfortable. The EZ roller boot lacing system provides a precise fit and the shock absorbing midsole is air cushioned. It’s a cold weather boot and it’s made for climbing and hiking.
The boots are designed with one piece of silicone impregnated leather for the upper, which provides more strength and durability without seams. They also come in a range of different sizes so you can get a great fit and have an ibi-thermo insole that is designed to keep the cold from the ground out of your boot no matter what it’s like outside.
PROS:
- Gore-Tex waterproofing and breathability
- 3D flex ankle for flexibility
- Locking D-rings for tension on boot laces
- Crampons fit great
- Variable and removable tongue
CONS:
- Runs somewhat small
- Take a little bit to break in
- Higher price
Related: If you’re mountain climbing you’ll want crampons with you for those steeper climbs, but you probably don’t want to just throw them in your bag. With this Black Diamond Crampon Bag you can keep your crampons safe and ready for use whenever you want them and at a low price too.
Scarpa Phantom Boots
Price: Approx. $600
Weight: 2 pounds
Sizes: 39.5 – 45M
Specific features: Vibram sole, Cordura, waterproof, Ergo fit system, rear rand locks
Best use: Winter hiking, mountaineering, backpacking
Description: The Scarpa Phantom Boots is available in all sizes and features automatic and semi-automatic crampon compatibility. It has an Ergofit system that gives you omni directional progressive flex and provides you with the perfect support for natural motion.
Furthermore, these boots come with rear rand locks that hold the heel securely for mountaineering efficiently. The lace system is really easy to use, and the midsole offers maximum shock absorption. At the same time, the Vibram sole provides you strong grip and brake power.
These boots are built for all conditions including very warm and cold and have a waterproof T zip and integrated gaitor, while the fitting of this boot is perfect, meaning that it will protect you from rubbing and blisters.
They work well even with wet conditions, keeping you completely dry and comfortable with great ankle support and they work well for just about anywhere you might want to go hiking or mountain climbing.
PROS:
- Waterproof even when walking through water
- Compatible with semi- and fully automatic crampons
- Ergofit system
- Integrated gaiter
- Fit well for women as well
CONS:
- Narrow toe box
- Larger throughout
- Not ideal for very cold conditions
Related: A snow picket can help you to increase your traction and reduce your overall fatigue and this MSR Snow Picket is one you’ll definitely want to check out. It’s made with aircraft grade aluminum to provide durability and has a durable hammer-end that makes sure you don’t have to worry about damage.
La Sportiva Spantik Boots
Price: Approx. $750
Weight: 3.3 pounds
Sizes: 38.5M – 47M
Specific features: Leather, PU coated, abrasion resistant, Vibram sole, lightweight
Best use: Mountaineering
Description: The La Sportiva Spantik Boot is made of leather and features PU coated outer soles. Since these double plastic boots are made for cold weather use they have a water repellent external coating, and an insole with aluminum insulation and thermal structure carbon fiber. They definitely keep your feet warm and dry.
Furthermore, they also provide step-in crampon compatibility and all the features make them perfect for mountaineering. Also worth mentioning is that the technical climbing capabilities of this product, add more to their value.
These boots have cellular thermal insulation and both the inner and outer boot are insulated and waterproofed to make sure you’re always going to stay comfortable and dry.
They work great for 6000+ meter peaks and have a toe rocker to help you walk more naturally up the mountain without having to worry about high stepping or about hot spots and rough areas that occur with some hiking boots.
PROS:
- Very warm in any conditions
- No break-in time required
- Insulated inner and outer boot
- Waterproofing on inner and outer boot
- Anti-abrasion flocking
CONS:
- Run slightly small
- Not ideal for wider feet
- Somewhat expensive for some
Related: Gaiters can help you stay even warmer and more comfortable when you’re mountain climbing and these Outdoor Research Expedition Gaiters are definitely going to help. They come in several different colors to get the right style for you and have a low price point that’s affordable for most.
Scarpa Fuego Boots
Price: Approx. $350
Weight: 1 pound
Sizes: 38M – 48M, including half sizes
Specific features: Leather fabric, Vibram sole, waterproof, double tongue, gusseted tongue
Best use: Backpacking, trekking, hiking, mountaineering
Description: The Scarpa Fuego Boot is made of suede leather and features a Vibram sole to provide excellent grip and strength. It has a double tongue to give the perfect fit, one being gusseted to provide complete protection.
The boot is built with tall cuffs to work efficiently in the wild lands and forests, even though it is classified as a boot for mountain climbing. Specifically, these boots are perfect for firefighting if you’re not planning on wearing them on a mountain. They can be used for just about any purpose and come in just about any size you could need.
These are cheaper, yet still durable and comfortable for most. However, they are stiff boots, meaning that they will work efficiently on rough terrains. Also, the fit of these boots is designed to protect you from blisters and slips as they have a close, slim fit that helps make walking a whole lot simpler for you.
PROS:
- Double tongue for improved fit and comfort
- Classic mountain boot style
- Designed for foresters and wilderness firefighters
- Leather material for durability
- Tall cuff for improved support
CONS:
- Takes a long time to break in
- Not rebuildable
- Very stiff overall
Related: Since these boots are made of suede leather, you will need additional waterproofing to keep your feet dry and warm. Therefore, we recommend checking out the Nikwax Nubuck & Suede Spray-On Waterproofing solution. It will give your boots the waterproof properties and you can enjoy your adventures without having to worry about the water coming through the leather.
Scarpa Inverno Boots
Price: Approx. $330
Weight: 5.6 pounds
Sizes: 4.5M – 12.5M
Specific features: Synthetic, lightweight, rocker sole, durable, warm
Best use: Mountaineering, trekking
Description: These Scarpa Inverno Boots have an extremely durable and lightweight liner, are made of synthetic material, and are available in all sizes. Furthermore, the flexible pebax shell is waterproof and provides flexibility in cold environments, while the rocker sole ensures comfortable walking and climbing.
The Inverno boots are designed for higher altitude, so the liner is there to keep you warm and comfortable, while the Vibram outsole provides strong grip and stability. All of the hardware is rust proof and riveted, which secures the laces and complete rubber randing improves the edging capacity and abrasion resistance.
Slightly bulkier than some of the other boots available, these have a rocker sole that makes it easier to walk in them and they have a sleek and shiny appearance. They’re inexpensive and very warm while still being easy and quick to break in, no matter what you’re planning for your next hike in them.
PROS:
- Easy to break in
- Inexpensive for just about any budget
- Warm and comfortable in any climate
- Work well with crampons
- High level of support
CONS:
- Run very small
- Heel is a little narrow
- Not ideal for everyday wear
Related: These Outdoor Research Pl Base Sensor Gloves are designed to keep you warm and comfortable in most conditions. They have a tight fit, are breathable, lightweight and quick drying as well as being moisture wicking and touch screen compatible. Plus, you get grip pads on the fingers and palm for easy grabbing of whatever you need.
Wrapping it up
We have reached the end of today’s article. At the end, all we can say is, whatever your plans are, you should make sure that the boots you are buying are suitable for the weather conditions and the terrain.
We have given you plenty of options to choose from, and if you prioritize right, you will be able to get the right boots for your budget.All the models in our reviews are high-quality made and have great user reviews so which ever you choose, you will not make a mistake.
Do you think one of these pairs of boots is the best of them all? Have you tried any of them and have feedback? Maybe you have a different pair of boots that you think should have been on this list? We want to hear all about it.
Nice roundup. I can’t say I know much about mountaineering in general but I have heard a lot about the boots. My friends say mountaineering boots keep their feet so warm and stay so durable that they want to wear them around in winter. Seems like a good idea to me, looking at all those features.
Absolutely!
One of my firefighter friends has two pairs of these boots, I do not know why but I think he liked the first pair of boots so much that he had to buy a second pair. I have been using these boots for recent hikes, and I came to look for my own pair of boots. They are stiff, tough, but comfortable, and I think they will last very long. They are worth every cent.
Extremely durable!
One of my firefighter friends has two pairs of these Scarpa-Fuego Mountaineering Boots , I do not know why but I think he liked the first pair of boots and liked them so much that he had to buy a second pair. I have been using these boots for recent hikes, and I came to look for my own pair of boots. They are stiff, tough, durable and comfortable. And worth every cent.
Thanks for sharing!
During my long research on the best mountaineering boots, I knew I had to find the best and most durable pair of boots and so I decided to try out the La Sportiva Batura 2.0 Boots from a long list of Mountain climbing boots available online. Walking on ice has never been easier since I acquired these and other than looking sporty, their mid sole air cushioning keep my feet warm and comfortable throughout. Mountain climbing is already tough, so I am glad I chose boots that will not make the experience tougher.
Walking on ice is easier with those boots!