If you are planning to embark on mountain climbing alone or in the company of friends, you need to pair of high-quality mountaineering boots. With the right boot, you will climb the mountain without slipping or falling as it provides you the traction you need to move.
However, choosing the best mountaineering boots is not as easy as it seems because the market is replete with several brands. These products look very much alike, making it pretty hard to choose the best from others. To select the right pair of boots, you need to consider some essential factors that qualify it for the job.
Some of the parameters to consider before buying a pair of mountaineering boots include the terrain, the technicality of the adventure, etc. Taking these factors into consideration will enable you to strike the right balance among essential parameters, including performance, safety, and protection.
Another essential factor that you must not overlook while buying a boot for mountain climbing is comfort. Be mindful of the rigidity of the sole and the flexibility of the upper part of the boots. Your comfortability is also of great importance as it prevents blisters and pains. Apart, it reduces the risk of an accident.
Five Things to Consider Before Buying Mountaineering Boots
Getting a pair of shoes that are up to the task is essential as it guarantees your safety and comfort while climbing. Before you buy a pair of boots, be sure to check the qualities discussed below.
Shell Material
The shell is an essential part of the shoe that shields you from harsh conditions around the mountain. It could be made of plastic, leather, or synthetic materials. This part should be resistant to water, mountain grit, and snow. Apart from that, they must be durable enough to withstand abrasion from crampons, rocks, and skis.
The majority of mountaineering boot shells are wholly synthetic, while some feature both leather and synthetics. Modern synthetic boots have several advantages; they are less bulky and don’t lose shape due to stretching like leather. But, synthetic shells have a drawback; they are less durable when compared to rubber ones.
Warmth
Another essential factor to consider is the ability of the shoe to keep your feet warm. Hence, go for a pair of shoes that will protect you from the cold conditions you are likely to encounter while climbing. Some of the features to look out for include thermo-reflective liners, inner insulation, among others. However, insulated shoes come with some drawbacks; they are less precise and heavier. Therefore, you should be able to strike a balance between this drawback and your objectives.
The lining is the main specification to consider when buying a pair of boots that will keep you warm. The lining can either be insulated or non-insulated.
Weight and Size
A heavy shoe can slow down your movement. Hence, consider this vital parameter when going for a pair of shoes for mountain climbing. For technical climbing, weight and size become critical. In other words, they are essential factors that should not be neglected if you are embarking on near-vertical climbing. However, if it involves more steep walking and movement on ice and rock; then, your warmth is as essential as the weight reduction.
Lacing Systems
Laces are essential parts of boots as they help to hold the pair firmly in place. Mountaineering boots come with a vast array of lacing systems, including pull-down cinch laces, standard tie lacing, as well as a Boa lacing system. Considering the extreme weather around the mountains, you need a lacing system that must be easy to tie and untie.
It is worth mentioning that the standard laces are usually hard to tie and untie in harsh weather conditions while climbing a mountain. It is practically impossible to loosen or tighten a lacing system with one hand, especially when wearing a thick glove.
The boa system is the simplest and are easy to use while climbing in an inclement weather condition. However, the system might fail in an alpine environment.
Sole Stiffness
You need to pay attention to the stiffness of the sole when looking to buy mountaineering boots. It is an essential factor because it has a role to play in your comfort and safety. Note that there are varying requirements of soul thickness for different types of climbing. For instance, you need a ¾ shank sole for climbing a low-altitude mountain. On the other hand, advanced mountaineering requires an entire shank sole.
Conclusion
A good pair of mountaineering boots will not only fit you snugly; it will also offer you the support needed to climb comfortably and safely. Do not rush into buying any pair that catches your attention; try as much as possible to consider all the factors explained above. This way, you will end up with the right team that will guarantee your safety and comfortability.
