Scarpa 2009 Sneak Peek!

We hooked up with the guys from the Mountain Boot Company a couple of weeks back for a sneak preview of what's in store from Scarpa for 2009 including upgrades to the top-selling ZG65, two completely new boot models and a whole new range of Alpine X casual approach shoes.

ZG65 Updates - November 2008

The ZG65 XCR is one of Scarpa's most popular UK models and it's being tweaked with changes coming in from around November 2008 to make it more comfortable. There's a new sole unit which incorporates more EVA cushioning in the heel to give a softer ride underfoot and more flex.


Up top, the ankle cuff has been redesigned with softer foam for a more comfortable fit around the ankle. Finally, there's a new last for the women's version of the boot, the ZG65 XCR Lady, which has a narrower heel to suit the female foot.

Finally, increased manufacturing and component costs mean the price will increase from £100 to £110.

Two New Lite Trek Models - early 2009

If £100 is your price ceiling, don't panic. Scarpa's launching two new light-ish Italian-made boots early in 2009 both priced at the magic 100-quid mark. There's a leather version, the Terra GTX and a fabric/suede model, the Mistral GTX.

Scarpa's using an injection moulding process for the boots rather than traditional construction, which saves time and cost as well as giving a softer ride than traditional boots. It's a well proven process  and used extensively by the likes of AKU, so it shouldn't lead to any drop in quality.

New Alpine X Range - early 2009

Scarpa's produced approach shoes for ages, but they've all been very functional. The new Alpine X range though, looks like their answer to the likes of Salomon and The North Face's dominance of the semi-casual outdoor shoe market.


Made in China, the new range consists of five models - all available in both men's and women's versions - and a flip-flop dubbed the Flippie. Prices range from £65 to £90 with the Flippie at £25 and there are two basic chassis - one is walking orientated with firmer PU cushioning underfoot and a relatively gentle sole unit, the other is claimed to be 'runnable' and has a toothier outsole backed up with a more cushioned mid-sole unit and lighter weight overall.


They do look nice in the flesh and while they might not appeal to the functionally obsessed, for the rest of us, they look like a good all-round option for a bit of this, that and the other... even on the beach.


Full details of the current Scarpa range at www.scarpa.co.uk