Since 1938, Scarpa has kept a commitment to hearing what mountaineers, hikers, trekkers, and climbers have to say – and then making the best boots that technology and experience can produce.
They’re supportive, protective, rugged, and reliable.
But how do you pick the right Scarpa boots? Use this short guide as a primer.
Intended Use
The most important determinant of the Scarpa boots you choose, by far, is intended use.
To pick the right footwear, you have to understand the unique features of the boots as well as the demands of the terrain and discipline.
One common intended use is backpacking. Backpackers travel for several days over protracted routes, often carrying a lot of gear on their backs. Though the terrain can vary depending on the country and the route chosen, it is imperative to choose boots that are supportive and waterproof for a long trip. Some degree of shock absorption through the insole and midsole is also necessary to reduce stress on joints.
Ultralight backpacking is backpacking, but with minimalized or extremely lightweight gear. Though the route may be challenging, carrying less gear means you may be able to choose a boot with a more lightweight design as you will not need as much support for carrying so much gear over the course of several days.
Still, boots for ultralight backpacking still need to offer a sure grip and a tread pattern that is suitable for the expected terrain. Considering the conditions, as boots or shoes for ultralight trips may also need to be insulated and waterproof (see below).
Hiking commonly refers to the practice of taking short trips, a day or less. Sometimes, hikers take easier routes than trekkers, traversing dirt roads or trails that are well-maintained and blazed.
Hikers that are not carrying a lot of gear can get away with the lightest Scarpa boots of all, designed for agility and flexibility. Lightweight hiking boots need not provide the same level of support and shock absorption as trekking and backpacking boots, instead trading these features for lightweight design, breathability (depending on the conditions) and overall practicality for a short trip.
Environment
After discipline and intended use, the next most important factor for which you will need to account is the expected environment.
Consider the prevailing climatic conditions where your trip is supposed to take place. If hiking in the southwest, where it is predominantly hot and dry during the day, lighter, breathable boots may be suitable.
By contrast, if you’re in the mountains, in snow, or in the wetter PNW, waterproofing and a higher degree of insulation for protection against the cold are in order.
If you know you struggle with cold toes, err on the side of caution. Even the desert gets frigid at night, and it is better to be over-prepared than underprepared.
Moreover, waterproofing is a good attribute in almost all environments, as it is difficult to dry your boots and socks once they get wet.
Support: Mid or Low-Cut Scarpa Boots?
Scarpa boots come in a variety of high, mid, and low-cut configurations, and all can be useful in separate situations. What’s best for you will be determined both by the conditions surrounding your trip and your own personal preferences.
That said, high and mid-cut boots have a distinct advantage in the cold, in snow, in wet conditions, and on very uneven terrain, as they protect against moisture ingress and can help prevent your ankle from rolling.
However, low-cut boots can be beneficial in more mild conditions, in dry, hot weather (as they trap less heat) and for shorter day trips when lightness takes priority over long-term support and protection.
For More Information, Visit Campman.com
This is only a very preliminary guide. For more information on how to choose Scarpa boots, check out Campman’s posts, “Buying Guide: SCARPA Hiking Boots & Light Hiking Shoes” and “Buying Guide: SCARPA Backpacking Boots”or get in touch with the people at Campman.com.
Campman’s staff consists of avid outdoor enthusiasts with a great deal of experience hiking and backpacking, and they carry Scarpa boots as well. If you’re looking for pointers or recommendations for hiking or mountaineering boots, they can help you out.
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