Boots are made of plastic, leather or a composite material like Kevlar or carbon fiber. Plastic boots are rigid, supportive and ideal for really cold temperatures. Leather boots are lighter, more supple and versatile, allowing a climber to hop across boulders and climb less extreme ice. Composite boots are more waterproof, flexible and durable than leather, but not quite as burly as plastic boots.
There are double and single boots available. Double boots have an inner layer that ensures added warmth and an outer layer that repels water and acts as a vapor barrier. Single layer boots offer more flexibility, but aren't quite as warm or waterproof, although most now come with an insulating layer. And some leather boots now have an added silicone treatment that makes them more waterproof.
What to Look for
Fit is the most important thing to consider when purchasing ice, mixed or mountaineering boots. There are dozens of styles, so spend time trying them out. The best place to try on technical boots is at an ice climbing festival, where you can borrow, bang, beat up and walk on a variety of different boots. Fitting a boot in a shop works only so well. You're only going to understand how a boot really fits when you bash it against an ice wall.
Plastic, double boots are warmer and thus ideal for mountaineers spending a lot of time at high altitude in cold temperatures. The removable inner boot offers greater versatility and fast drying, and the waterproof shell is durable.
Single leather and single composite boots are less cumbersome, more comfortable and offer greater sensitivity. They are ideal for people climbing hard, delicate routes or for people who spend a lot of time summer mountaineering (i.e. running over boulders and climbing snowy peaks).
The flexibility of a boot varies. People who spend a lot of time walking should look for a boot that flexes at the ball of the foot, that has a lower cut, and that is made of more supple leather or composite material. People who climb very steep ice might want the support of a double plastic boot.
Common Pitfalls
Next to ice axes, boots are one of the priciest pieces of equipment you will ever purchase. The good news is they last for a long time. The most important thing, as mentioned in the above section, is fit. Make sure you find that unique brand of boot that perfectly fits your foot. Otherwise you'll have a miserable experience ice climbing. Also, make sure your boot matches your style of climbing.
Member Comments