Scarpa Helium Shoe First Look

Scarpa has lasted the Helium like a boot with the PU-cushioning of the mid-sole reinforced with a Pebax stiffener - because they're nice people they've left some holes in the outsole so you can impress your mates by showing them the orange stiffening bit. The stiffener means that there's good lateral stability (it's hard to twist the sole sideways) but good lengthways bend for comfortable walking.

The other contributing factor, we think, is the flare of the heel section of the sole - significantly wider at the base than the top - which makes for natural stability by creating a wider base. Combine that with a snug, supportive heel cup and you have a shoe that feels as, or more, stable on uneven ground than many boots.

The sole is topped off with Vibram Megabyte sticky rubber cleats - the same stuff they used to put on the Mescalito scrambling boot - which makes for great friction for walking and scrambling on rock. Be aware though, that while the rubber is great for smearing, the sole's flare and PU padding means that it won't edge on small holds like a rock boot or a purpose-built scrambler like the Mescalito. General grip is also good, though patches of wet, greasy mud on descents will still unhinge things.

The rest of the shoe is classic Scarpa. Medium to high volume with broadish width, great build and an overall feel of quality. The lacing system gives you scope to pull the forefoot tight, but make sure your feet are wide enough for the shoe or you'll run out of adjustment. We found them comfortable straight out of the box. You don't have the same feel of lowness and nimbleness you'd get with, say, a fell shoe, but the trade off is in the enhanced stability and general butchness of the show.

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