Chris you recently described the hi-tec v lites as "wonderful". I duly investigated this, seeking a lightweight replacement for my old scarpas, and I now have a pair on try-at-home trial. I agree they are as comfy as trainers, I like the fact that they have no lining, and I SUSPECT I'm happier staying with leather rather than trying a fabric model. However, my one concern now is how do they fare on rough hills? You said they gripped ok on a 33000 descent, but what about a wet rock descent? And also do they protect your feet from rock and stone impact underfoot? Those are the kind of tests I can't make; once I do it, I'll have to keep the boots. The other option, for me, is a pair of Meindl Softlines Lites. Similar weight, probably a better (vibram) sole, but 1) fabric and 2) a membrane liner.
James, I've worn the boots on everything from hard frozen ground to steep wet rock, grass and mud. I was surprised at how well the soles gripped. I found the cushioning protected my feet from stones. The uppers are quite soft, as you'd expect with boots this light, so you don't get quite the protection there. If you bang a rock you'll feel it.
I haven't tried the Meindl Softlines. Meindl are higher quality than Hi-Tech, but also more expensive. A Vibram sole will probably outlast the Hi-Tec one. I find membranes far too hot in warm let alone hot weather however. Unfortunately the choice in light boots without membranes is poor. The alternative would be a trail shoe (review in the next TGO - which should be out later this week).
You don't say which model your old Scarpa are, but if they are SLs or heavier the V-Lites will seem rather insubstantial in comparison.
My scarpas are 15 years old, discontinued. Used to be called Trek; I think the SLs are the equivalent. With the occasional toe bang, I'm prepared to suffer a little for an infrequent situation, in favour of lighter weight for 100% of the time. Why have massive protection for such rare occurrences? I recently spent 5 days in the lakes - Helvellyn etc etc - using a cheap pair of boots I got for £3 from a charity shop. No they wouldn't be advisable in the wet, but they were fine then and in fact BETTER than the old scarpas because they were so light. I think they're some kind of cheapie Milletts brand. I also wore normal ie non-thick socks, and they were fine! It was an experiment because I couldn't face the weight of the scarpas....and it paid off. I want to go lightweight. I'll probably buy a second pair of heavies later in the year, SL or something similar, for cold, snow and short periods with crampons, although again I'll get as light as I can for that kind of rigidity etc. The Softline are good and light boots, no doubt about it, and I think the sole must be better - it is a vibram. But there are other factors to consider and if you've found the vlite soles ok thats encouraging.
