An interesting new development from Raichle with the launch
of its first ever Via Ferrata boot, the Mt Envy GTX.
Via Ferrata may be a minority interest in the UK, but Raichle says
that the Mt Envy is actually also a 'great multi-purpose boot too'.
At a lightweight 1600 grammes and with a low profile and sticky
Vibram Mulaz rubber sole complete with a smooth toe area for good
friction, we reckon it should also make a decent mountain scrambling
boot.

It's stiff too, stiff enough to take a C1 crampon for winter use
and to allow edging on rock holds, but has a built in rocker to the
sole to make walking easy and comfortable. Finally, a Gore-Tex liner
keeps wetness at bay.
Overall, says Raichle, the Mt Envy GTS is - and we quote -
'ideal for climbing challenging lines to the summit; scrambling; Via
Ferrata; use with a crampon to cross glaciers and snow slopes; UK
winter hill walking'.
The boot uses Nubuck leather uppers, Vibram Mulaz sole unit, has
Memo-foam in the tongue and around the ankle, motion control system,
B1 crampon compatibity and is available for men sized 6-13 and women,
4-9. Price is £160, ouch...
More Raichle information at www.raichle.com