Scarpa Mont Blanc Pro GTX, EU39.5

I am a shoe freak.  For some unknown reason I seem to accumulate shoes/boots even though I try not to.  I blame it on the varied sporting activities that I do.

I did however need to upgrade my general low altitude mountaineering boots.  I couldn't live with my plastic Scarpa Omegas as they could cause me some pain around the ankles if I accidentally moved my ankle in the wrong angle.  I still keep them as my impervious tank of a boot and for guests (if they they are the same size).

I have not tested these out yet (as there is no snow in Australia at the moment) so I am making observations, and from me wearing them inside the house.

I struggled between buying the La Sportiva Nepal Evo GTX or the Scarpas.  The decision was made purely on fit.  I went with the women's size as the fit was ever so slightly snugger than the men's fit of the same size.  Size is everything...if it doesn't fit well then you will not climb or hike well in them.  For sizing, you should 'know' where the front of the boot is, but your toes should not touch the front unless your laces are loose.

The boot has excellent construction.  I prefer the durability of leather on the lower part of the boot so that when you are tired and kicking rocks that they do not fail quickly.  The sole is solid and as grippy as any other hiking /climbing boot.  The rubber rand adds to the durability.  It also has solid boot welts.

The lacing has ball rollers that makes tightening easy and there is also a forefoot lace hook-lock to make sure it is held down well.  It also has the good ability to crank the ankle down and this helps with the stopping of the foot moving forward.

The sock-fit construction is very comfortable and the gaiter top has two buttons to adjust the tightness.

Overall it is a very well constructed boot.  The quality is better than La Sportiva boots (I have owned the La Sportiva Baruntse and own the Olympus Mons).  

The Scarpa fits me like a glove and I cannot wait to test them out when winter hits Australia.