I'm looking for a new pair of boots for the Alps and UK winter. I've eventually decided that something like the Scarpa Manta is likely to be too hot and stiff for paths and trails in an Alpine summer, but still want something for a decent, longish glacier crossing and, perhaps, the occasional easy peak en route. A B1 rated boot seems the best option. Any opinions on a B1 boot that is comfortable for long days on paths, plus scrambling, snow and easy ice? I also have slightly dodgy knees and hips (a wreck!) so boots that allow for a reasonably natural gait could be a big bonus. Talking of crampons - is there such a thing as a 12 point C1, or are they all 10 point? Any recommendations? Neal
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Get the boot that fits you best — there really isn't any other answer, cos most of the B1 boots from Scarpa, Zamberlan, Meindl, Asolo, Raichle and the like are very good.
As for the crampons, I think an answer would be to get the widely available Grivel G12 crampon (C2) and fit the flexible linking bars for the G10s (C1) which can be bought separately.
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There is a whole genre of boots such as the Scarpa Charmoz and the LaSportiva Trango S Evo that are designed for summer alpine walking, glaciers, easy climbs, via ferrata etc. They'll take crampons with a heel clip, which is nice, so would go well with say Grivel Airtechs, which are somewhat less aggressive than the G12s, or CAMP Ice Riders or Stalkers. The Stalkers have a flexible bar, like the G10s. Still overkill on paths though; mebbe some very light trail shoes, which you could use in the huts would be good too - I've even seen climbers in the Dolomites wearing flip-flops on the trails.
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| Edited: 28/02/08 14:12 |
 I use the Scarpa SL's, a top boot. They take the Grivel G10's with the heel clip rather then beign strap on which is great. Worth a try if they fit you. I use them for summer too.
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SLs do me very nicely - have done for years. I never use my heavyweight Meindl B2s now, the snow and ice conditions in Scotland so rarely justify them (just back from 9 days there - never even got my axe out, first time ever). I've used the SLs (+ crampons) in winter/spring conditions in Iceland, Norway, the Atlas in spring, Alps too - absolutely fine. I have 4 pairs on the go (or 5?), keeping the best for winter and serious trips. I've not tried the latest ones, which look less robust than older models. My crampons are probably C1s - but quite old - again, no probs at all. A great boot - yes, even used year-round, so I get full use out of the more worn ones.
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I have the Raichle All degree lites
They are a fantastic boot. The Old version has a stiffer sole, so its C2 but the newer version is rated at C1.
I been using mine all winter in Norway, and they have been outstanding.
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 I bought a new pair of Scarpa SL's the other day. I have tried a couple of other boots over the years but always seem to return to Scarpas. Once I have used by new boots for a couple of outtings I'll get my old pair resoled through Tisos. I use them summer and winter.
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A number of people have recommended the Raichle All Degree Lites, and mentioned the rather odd B1-B2 rating they now seem to have. So, what crampon to buy for them? Mine are antiques and due for replacement....
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I took my boots along to a shop and tried both C1 and C2 crampons, they both fitted well, the Raichles have a small cleet at the back which is usually found on C2 rated boots, but i went safe and bought the Grivel G10's.
Hope this helps
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