Gear Review
Review Title
By klimbien
Ranked #593 - Men's Mountaineering Boots
September 1, 2009
ok on vertical ice and for me...horrible to hike in. I am quite frustrated with ice/alipine climbing boots - maybe God designed me wrong, but I can't find anything that works. I've gone through a pair or Scarpa Freneys and invernos, La sportivas, and Asolos. The asolos were 25 bucks on ebay and worked the best for everything, wish I wouldn't have given into the desire to have a lighter, more name brand boot thinking I would be more comfortable. The freneys are light which is nice. I did an easy 7 mile hike in them and about died - super uncomfortable and would not recommend hiking a log distance in them unless you have put a couple miles on them around your local area to test. Climbing ice is ok, but the top of the toe offers little protection so its easy to bash your toes up. Open to recommendations, it seems like you need two pairs of boots, one for vertical ice and one that is flexible and good for glacial travel.
View Details: Scarpa Freney XT GTX Mountaineering Boots - Men's
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes
Tech Specs:
- Material:
- [Upper] K-Tech & Lorica; [Midsole] Proflex XT
- Lining:
- GORE-TEX Duratherm
- Removable Liner:
- No

- Sole:
- Vibram Dual GSb 

- Crampon Compatible:
- Yes, GSb automatic and semi-automatic 

- Lacing:
- Standard
- Weight:
- [Pair, size 9] 4lb (1850g)

- Recommended Use:
- Ice approach / vertical
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- 1 Year
- Country of Origin:
- Italy
Change me.



1 Comments Last Reply: 6 days ago By: Monty Sheridan
I have used Scarpa Freneys for the last two Scottish winters (2010/11) and found them supremely comfortable even after 12 hours of near non-stop walking. Fantastic ankle support for steep climbs and descents yet flexible and lightweight enough to not leave you feeling like you've got a pair of Jaques Cousteau's diving boots on. Paired with some smartwool mountaineering socks I generally finish the day with warm dry feet - no signs of 'trenchfoot'. The lacing system allows a custom fit to stop toes getting squashed during descents and prevent 'hotspots' developing elesewhere. On vertical ice these boots have performed admirably when used with a pair of Grivel G14s - simple to fit and adjust yet giving a dexterous and reassuring feel. The look maybe a bit 'retro 70s' for some but on a crisp winter morning striding off to the hills lokking like 'Ziggy Stardust' brings nothing but a smile to my face.
Helpful Votes: 0 Yes