We thought we’d give you our opinion on which boots – winter and summer – are best for the activities we offer our guests.. maybe not in terms of brands specifically but more what to look for. Yes feet are finicky and everyone of us have very different feet in terms of length, width, arch, no arch, toes long or not, some long some not, you get the idea!! So here is what we think:
WINTER
Ski Touring:
- Alpine touring boots, compatible with touring binding, preferably a pair that you have used before. No leather, nor cross-country ski boots. Choose them light, flexible, snug fitted and comfortable! Remember you will have them on your feet for 6 hours or more a day..
- Note that some brands make their ski boots narrower and some wider than others. Ask a professional at your local sports store, try them there and at home and enquire about the return policy in case of having issue fitting your pair.
SUMMER
Trekking, Via Ferratas:
- Sturdy, waterproof leather trekking / hiking boots with vibram sole and suitable for crampons if having to walk on frozen snow (like early season).
Glacier Trek – like our Haute Route or Wapta:
- Leather mountaineering boots* with rigid soles or sturdy, waterproof trekking boots – usable with strap-on crampons
Pictures credit MEC.ca, The Atlanta Internists and OnTop’s photo library.