Meindl Lhotse Boot First Look

 

Meindl Lhotse

Price: £129.95

Weight:1716 grammes (men's size 43)

Features: Upper: Nubuck hydrophobic leather, stitched with anti-wicking thread, Digafix lacing system, Anatomic design with Air Active ventilation; Gore-Tex guaranteed waterproof lining; Meindl double density Vibram outsole, PU and rubber Nylon midsole; higher rand at toe and heel for added protection; C1 flexible crampon compatible.

The Lhotse is Meindl's Gore-Tex-lined 3-4 season boot and early signs are that it's a good one. First there's an overall feel of high build quality and top class materials with high spec nubuck leather and rust-proof rivets and lace fittings, plus there's a built-in waterproof / breathable Gore-Tex liner together with an all round rand to protect the boot in rocky areas and when kicking into snow and scree.

Initial comfort was excellent straight out of the box with none of the hefty breaking in that winter boots used to require. Some of this is down to the supple uppers, some to the well-padded ankle area, but don't under-estimate the effeciveness of Meindl's design.

Laced Up

The 'Digafix' lacing system features and extended lacing point that arches over the mid-foot and help to pull the heel back into the heel minimising heel lift and stopping the foot sliding forward on downhill sections. You can also lock off the forefoot lacing giving differential tightness between the heel and front sections.

The suppleness of the leather doesn't seem to compromise the stability of the boot either. Some of that comes from the well-shaped heel cup, some from a high degree of resistance to lateral flex that makes the boot feel reassuringly planted on uneven and rocky ground and also works edging on scrambling holds. There's still good fore-aft flex for comfortable walking though. We also reckon they'd make a good heavy-duty backpacking boot if you're that way inclined.

We haven't had a chance to use them with crampons yet, but they take a strap-on flexible C1 graded crampon, though there's no heel-lug to allow the use of a rear clip-on version and should also have enough sole stiffness to kick slash steps into snow. A propos of which, there's good grip from the Vibram outsole on wet and dry terrain, including rock and enough built-in cushioning to take the edge off short road sections.

For full-on, sustained crampon use - say in Scottish winter conditions - you might prefer a stiffer boot, but for general winter and autumn backpacking and mountain walking with occasional crampon sessions, first impressions are that the Meindl is right in the ball park with boots like Scarpa's SL.

Initial Verdict It's early days and we'll be back with a full report in a few months time, but initial impressions are that - if it fits your foot - the Lhotse is a great combination of comfort and support that, should also be up to occasional crampon use. More detailed review after further abuse.

Meindl web site

Importer: Bramwell International, Hincaster Hall, Milnthorpe, Cumbria - LA7 7ND
Telephone: 015395-60214

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