How to choose your mountaineering boots

HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR MOUNTAINEERING BOOTS

Here are our tips to help you choose the right pair of mountaineering boots.

A comfortable pair of boots will take you up and down the mountains with a smile.
When choosing the perfect pair, you should not only take into account your shoe size, but also how you intend to use them!

For mountaineering

You will need to be comfortable on both rock and snow.
Choose boots with a climbing zone. Located at the front of the sole, it is there to guarantee good grip and better precision when you are climbing.

How to choose your mountaineering boots
How to choose your mountaineering boots

Alpinism light boot

The Alpinism Light boot is also available in a women's model

FOR MOUNTAINEERING

Triolet boot 

Do you feel the cold? The Triolet boot will keep you a little warmer but, be warned, it is also a bit stiffer. 

For glacier trekking 

You will need boots that you will be comfortable crossing a glacier in. They must therefore be waterproof. 

How to choose your mountaineering boots
How to choose your mountaineering boots

Alpinism boot

For ice climbing 

For this discipline, you need very warm and waterproof boots.

How to choose your mountaineering boots
How to choose your mountaineering boots

Nepal extreme mountaineering boot

With or without welt? 

Your choice of boot will in turn impact the choice of your pair of crampons. A boot without a welt will only be compatible with strap-on crampons. If it has a rear welt, it can be worn with strap-on or semi-auto crampons. And lastly, if it has a front and a rear welt, it can be worn with all types of crampons, including step-in crampons, which are quick to fit.
However, boots with a front welt are often stiffer, and as the welt wears down, step-in crampons become more difficult to fit.

For rock climbing and mountaineering 

If you are torn between a mountaineering boot or your climbing shoes for mountaineering on rocky terrain, the approach shoe is the perfect compromise.
Featuring a Vibram sole, this is the footwear you need for crossing rocky terrain during your approach walks and for mountaineering in rocky terrain. To help you choose the right size, if you will mainly be using them for mountaineering in rocky terrain, we recommend selecting a size below your usual size for more precision. If you will mainly be using them for hiking and approach walks, we recommend choosing your usual size.

How to choose your mountaineering boots
How to choose your mountaineering boots

Approach shoe

For rock climbing and mountaineering 

Approach shoe

Mountaineering boots are essential for safe adventures in the mountains. Remember to try them on beforehand and break them in over short distances to ensure you will be comfortable. And don't forget to complete your footwear with a pair of crampons!