K-Mac

I'm wearing the Kailash GTX Mid on my left and the Lowa Renegade GTX Mid on the right, and trying to figure out which pair to keep.

For those worried about sizing, I'm normally a 10-10.5, and the 45.5 fits me perfectly. The 46 is way too large. My forefoot is probably normal width and the Kailash fits perfectly. The Lowa is wider outside, but feels about the same inside.

The Lowa feels sturdier because the footbed is wider. The Scarpa is definitely a narrower boot, but both fit me perfectly. The Lowa also feels a bit more secure around the ankle, but both aren't going to provide real support. As an example, with both laced up tightly, the Kailash easily allows a finger in the side (1st inch) whereas the Renegade requires a bit more push.

The soles both have their pluses and minuses. The Renegade has great rear-heel traction and even has a slight curve with ridges over the heel -- it looks hard to lose grip with a heel slide. The Kailash has a much more rugged sole, but the the last inch is smooth.

From all of the reviews, people seem to like the Kailash's durability, but seems a common complaint for the Renegade.

I'll wear them a few more days indoors before deciding.

Update from Italy:

I just got back from a week of hiking in the Dolomite's, and these boots were marvelous. Hiked in the rain, up and down scree, and traversed via ferratas. I had the orange super feet in them. The scree and rock was a bit hard on my feet, but I attribute that mainly to my feet being a little soft.

The soles gripped the rock really well, even when slightly wet, though they slipped a bit when really wet (normal, I would guess.)

My only complaint is the size that fits me best lengthwise is a tiny bit too wide.

I actually find myself too warm if the sun is out. I haven't experienced the chaffing Joe P did.

I'm 5'11" 170 and the jacket was a little big to keep me warm w/o some layering bulkier than 2 thin layers I wore in sub-freezing Utah winds. Styling could be a little bit nicer, but otherwise really good and a great value.

I really liked my Bionic, but I accidentally left it in a cab. One thing I didn't like about it was it's breathability.

After extensive research, I settled on the Ultima Softshell because of other reviews and it was on sale ($120). I also loved the color (Tempest, which isn't available anymore?). I'm 5'11, 170 and the large fits perfectly (i.e. room underneath for a sweater/sweatshirt)

The construction is excellent. The places where water would hit have a more resistant fabric. The remaining fabric (under arms and the back) seems more breathable. I use this as part of a layering system, so breathability is very important.

I'd have preferred the whole jacket to be totally water resistant and have pit zips instead, but pit zips are almost non-existent in softshells.

The arm pocket is nice, but would benefit from having a headphone cable opening.