The manufacture of a modern hill or mountain boot represents a unique blend of traditional boot making skills and modern technology.

A whole variety of different underfoot situations have to be considered when designing a sole unit. SCARPA® has worked exclusively with the world's leading sole manufacturers (Vibram® and Skywalk®) to develop soles that will meet these different requirements and performance characteristics.

A whole variety of different underfoot situations have to be considered when designing a sole unit. SCARPA® has worked exclusively with the world's leading sole manufacturers (Vibram® and Skywalk®) to develop soles that will meet these different requirements and performance characteristics.

To get the most out of your Scarpa® boots it is important that they should fit you as well as possible...

All quality boots are built around a carefully crafted foot shaped model - known as a "last". It is the last which gives a boot its fit characteristics. The quality of the lasting, and the time that each upper spends on the last, is crucial in giving Scarpa boots their renowned shape and fit. Scarpa develop a last to specifically suit the end use of each boot. As a result, when you step into a SCARPA boot, you can be sure it has been carefully designed to suit you and your activity. Additionally, SCARPA were the first company to develop a purpose made last for women's boots. Today every ladies specific model has a dedicated female last. These lasts are slimmer in the mid foot and heel areas (Note: This female last may also be appropriate for a slim, low volume male foot and conversely a high volume, broad female foot may be better suited to the standard last).

Read more (Boot Lasting and Sizing)

Correct foot preparation is a key component in getting comfortable performance from your boots. Try to buy good performance socks. A few guidelines to look for in a good sock are:
 

• The tightness of the knit - a good sock will normally be a tight and smooth knit.
• Make sure there is good shaping to the sock - tube socks should be avoided.
• Check that the sock has good stretch and elasticity.
• If possible try to use socks that wick moisture away (the foot puts out around 50ml of sweat per day)

Socks are an ideal way of making small adjustments to the volume and fit of the boot so be prepared to experiment with combination and density of socks you use to get the best fit - but we believe that you should never wear more than two pairs (A liner and an outer sock). If you need more than two socks it is likely that you need to take the next boot size down.

Read more (Foot Preparation)

The start point in fitting the boot is to ensure that you have the right size and remember that it is possible to customise the fit of a boot that is slightly too large but it is virtually impossible to do anything about a boot that is too small. If in doubt go for a size that is slightly large rather than one that is too small. Bear in mind that the critical size element is the length. Boots will often give or can be modified in width terms but it is virtually impossible to modify the length of a boot.

When trying the boot on make sure you do so with your usual sock combination. You should also bear in mind the end use of the boot. For example if you are going to use your boots when you are likely to be carrying a heavy rucksack then this will alter the loading and shape of your foot. You should therefore try wearing the boots with a loaded sac on. Also boots used for the mountains will be used in an uphill and downhill mode. You should therefore simulate this when trying the boots on.

An increasing number of specialist shops are now providing 'incline boards' for you to test boots on. The key points to bear in mind are that when testing the boots in a down hill mode, properly laced up, your toes should not be pushing against the front of the boots. Equally, there should not be as much of a finger width at the heel otherwise your boot volume is too large for you.

Read more (Initial Fitting of the Boot)

Even the best fitting boot will not give maximum performance unless it is correctly laced up. Correct lacing ensures that boot fits snugly and will prevent 'forward slip' of the foot in the boot and will reduce friction that could otherwise lead to blisters. When lacing the boot ensure that you start from the toe and gradually tension the lace between each set of hooks. Lace locks allow for the tension to be held over the fore foot whist giving a separate level of adjustment and tension around the ankle of the boot.
 

Be prepared to adjust your lacing as you go. It is common to find that as you need to re-tension the lacing after a short distance even in boots that have been well broken-in. Also the foot shape will adjust during the day with temperature, terrain and load carried.

Read more (Lacing up the boot)

It is not uncommon to find that some modification to the boot is required to get an optimal fit. There are several ways to achieve this:
 

• Footbeds - There are a variety of high performance footbeds available to suit differing needs.
• Volume Adjusters - A thin insert which can be added under the footbed to reduce the overall volume of the boot. This can make up to a half size difference in fit.
• Rubbing Bars - Some people have specific foot problems (e.g. swollen toe joints) which can cause problems when fitting new boots. It is worth knowing that boots can often be 'stretched' in specific areas to ease any painful rub points. Some specialist shops have rubbing bars specifically designed for this purpose. It is also possible to modify slightly heel and toe shapes to improve the fit of a boot. However this is a job best done by a trained boot fitter and we would recommend that it is done as a 'retro fit' adjustment.

Read more (Boot modifications)

As a general rule high performance hill and mountaineering boots are made from thicker leathers and have stiffer midsoles than do lower level walking boots. It is therefore essential to break in higher performance boots. To do this you should start by wearing them for a short distance and progressively lengthen the walks that you do. Never be tempted to take new boots and go out for a long trip in them. Always break them in over time.

It is often easier to prevent rubbing or blister problems. A piece of elastoplast or Second Skin put on early will often prevent a blister forming. If a blister does occur in the breaking in process then there are now excellent treatments available of which Compeed is probably the best known. A good pair of boots correctly fitted will give you many miles of comfortable use but it is worth remembering that almost as much of the comfort lies in the fitting and adjustment of the boot as in the boots themselves. We hope this information is helpful to you and wish you years of comfortable use from your Scarpa Boots.

Read more (Breaking Boots-In)

Your SCARPA boots are good to go straight from the box however, despite developments in technology, all of the footwear in our range requires regular aftercare to maintain the highest level of performance and durability..

• After each use rinse off mud and dirt with clean water. Remove any stubborn dirt with a sponge, damp cloth or brush. If your boots are particularly dirty you can use a cleaning product such as Nikwax Footwear Cleaning Gel.
• Dry your boots naturally over time in a cool, dry place with good air circulation (Never force dry your boots using heat, as this will damage the leather uppers)
• Regularly treat them with a suitable waterproofing treatment applicable to the type of boots you have (See below). We would recommend re-proofing the boots whenever they get particularly dirty or when water stops beading (turning to droplets) on the surface of the boots.
• Take care to apply treatments to tongues, D. rings and hooks. Do not over treat them as this can soften the leather and damage stitching.

1. Terra

A high quality 2mm leather ideal for the entry level boots in our range. Montana leather is very supple and very lightweight which gives a soft, comfortable fit ideal for entry level boots. The leather is oiled to boost natural water resistance and to improve the cosmetic finish. Use a proofing agent from new, for best results we recommend SCARPA HS12 cream or a water based wax treatment such as Aqueous Nikwax.

Read more (MONTANA CALF LEATHERS)

It is a common misconception that boots with a Gore-Tex membrane require less care, this is not the case. Leaving a Gore-Tex boot untreated will likely damage the boot. Gore-Tex boots should be cleaned and re-proofed regularly in accordance with the care instructions for the specific materials below.

Over time particles of dirt and debris will build up on the inside of your boots, this can cause abrasion which can damage the Gore-Tex lining of your boots which can cause the boots to leak. In order to extend the life of your footwear it is best to periodically remove the insole and rinse the inside of the boot with clean warm water. Always leave your boots to dry naturally following this process.

Read more (GORE-TEX)

1. Ranger 2 Activ
2. Delta Activ

High quality leather of 2.4 or 2.6mm in thickness, they are ideal for fell or lightweight hillwalking boots. Calf leather undergoes a traditional tanning process which helps to make it durable and highly water resistant. Use a proofing agent from new, for best results we recommend SCARPA HS12 cream or a water based wax treatment such as Aqueous Nikwax.

Read more (CALF LEATHERS)

1. SL Activ

A 2.7-2.9 mm leather. The extra thickness and durability of this leather is perfectly suited to stronger hill and mountain walking boots, where extra support and resistance to scuffing is required. Sherpa leather undergoes a full HS12 silicone tanning treatment which, coupled with the extra thickness of the leather, boosts water resistance and stops the leather from wetting out too easily. We recommend the use of SCARPA HS12 cream or Aqueous Nikwax from new.

Read more (SHERPA LEATHERS)

1. Kinesis Tech
2. Mythos Tech

Nubuck is a full grain leather where the outer surface of the leather has a finely sanded, texturised finish, which gives the boot an added appeal. All Scarpa Nubuck leathers are HS12 treated and will give the same performance as Sherpa leather, although the surface finish will change over time. Use specialist Nubuck treatments such as Nikwax Nubuck and Suede from new to keep the uppers in the best condition. SCARPA HS12 can be applied however this will flatten the texturised finish of Nubuck leather and darken the colour. The original finish can be restored using a suede brush.

Read more (NUBUCK LEATHER)

1. Manta
2. Mont Blanc

These are premier leathers used on full mountain boots where maximum strength, support and abrasion resistance is required. These leathers are used with the tanned finish reversed with the textured side out and the tanned surface inside. This helps to protect the tanned surface of the leather and the extra surface area of the brushed finish helps to boost water resistance. All Scarpa reversed leathers are HS12 treated. For reversed leather we recommend Nikwax Nubuck and Suede treatment, followed by a light brushing with a suede brush, this will retain the appearance of the reversed leather.

Read more (CROSTA (Reversed Leather))

1. Cyclone
2. Mustang
3. Baltoro
4. Kinesis

Suede does not offer the same level of water resistance as smooth leather however suede is both lightweight and relatively durable which makes it the ideal choice for lightweight trekking models. Suede is thinner and more supple than full grain smooth leather but still requires regular care. Take care to re-proof areas where suede joins other materials to ensure that the suede retains maximum flexibility. We recommend use of Nikwax Nubuck and Suede or Graingers G-Max from new.

Read more (FABRIC/SUEDE)

1. Rebel
2. Rebel Ultra
3. Rebel Carbon

A fabric studied especially for Scarpa. KCN-TECH is derived from three high-tenacity textile fibres woven together, by Schoeller, to form an incredibly lightweight, durable waterproof breathable fabric. Ideal for use on our Mountain Elite line KCN-Tech ensures the perfect balance between performance and weight. S-Tech is a completely synthetic alternative to leather which provides durability and water resistance with a radical weight saving in comparison to leather. Another benefit of S-Tech is that it has a great memory which means that once is it ‘lasted’ into a shape it will hold that shape as the boot ages despite abrasion etc. This makes it perfect for use on our Mountain Elite line. We recommend using Nikwax Fabric and Leather proof or Grangers G-Max periodically to ensure the highest level of water resistance is maintained.

Read more (KCN-TECH/S-TECH/MICROTECH)

1. Phantom Series
2. Charmoz Pro
3. Rebel Lite

A synthetic material, made by Schoeller, which ensures maximum durability with minimum weight. Combined with S-Tech this allows us to achieve a lightweight boot which is strong enough for summer and winter mountaineering, scrambling and Via Ferrata. We recommend using Nikwax Fabric and Leather or Grangers G-Max periodically to ensure that the highest level of water resistance is maintained

Read more (K-TECH/L-TECH/S-TECH)

The origin of the hide, the age, rearing and care of the beast and the tanning process are all critical elements which effect the finished performance and look of the boot. SCARPA have over 50 years experience of dealing and negotiating with tanneries to secure the finest leathers and meticulously select the hides they use in their leather walking and mountain boots. The tanning process is a critical factor in the production of quality leathers and is what makes the leather water resistant. Some leathers use traditional tanning processes and ingredients. More expensive leathers like Scarpa's HS12 use a tanning treatment which forces a silicone based ingredient deep into the leather. This gives improved and more durable water resistance to the leather and also allows the leather to dry out faster, even when it does become wet. Leather is still regarded as the finest material for quality walking boots. It does however require care and protection to maintain its performance.

A high quality leather of 2.4mm to 2.6mm in thickness, ideal for fell or lighter weight hillwalking boots, which require less bedding in.

Read more (Full grain calf leather)

A 2.7 mm to 2.9 mm tanned leather. The extra thickness and durability of this leather is perfectly suited to stronger hill and mountain walking boots, where extra support and resistance to scuffing is important. Sherpa leather is treated with the HS12 tanning process which is durable and resistant to scuffing and stops the leather from wetting out so easily.We recommend the use from new of Scarpa's HS12 cream.

Read more (HS12 Sherpa Leather)

A full grain leather where the outer surface has a finely sanded, texturised finish, which gives the boot an added appeal. Scarpa Nubuck leathers are treated with HS12 to ensure best performance. This leather should not be confused with suede or reversed leathers.

Read more (Nubuck Leather)

This is the standard grade of leather used by most leading mountaineering boot manufacturers. It is a premier leather for mountain footwear and gives excellent comfort and general performance. However, without the HS12 treatment, its water repellancy is not as efficient as Reversed Anfibio leather.

Read more (Crosta)

The finest, premier leather at 3.0mm + thickness. Reversed Anfibio offers maximum strength, support and abrasion resistance. There leathers are"reversed" (i.e. with the textured side out and the tanned surface inside). This protects the hides best surface from scuffing and abrasion, which improves durability and water resistance. Reversed Anfibio is a prime quality leather and should not be confused with ordinary leathers or suede. All Scarpa Reversed Anfibio leather has the specilised HS12 tanning treatment which impregnates silicone into the leather, making the leather more water resistant. This treatment is durable and resistant to scuffing, stops the leather from wetting out so easily and dries out faster than traditionally tanned leathers.

Read more (HS 12 Reversed Anfibio Leather)

A special tanning treatment making the leather more water resistant, breathable and quicker drying than normal untreated leather. This treatment is durable and resistant to scuffing. All Sherpa, Nubuck and Reversed Anfibio leathers in the Scarpa range are given this additional treatment.

Read more (HS12)

Scarpa develop a last to specifically suit the end use of each boot. As a result, when you step into a SCARPA boot, you can be sure it has been carefully designed to suit you and your activity. Additionally, SCARPA were the first company to develop a purpose made last for women's boots. Today every ladies specific model has a dedicated female last. These lasts are slimmer in the mid foot and heel areas (Note: This female last may also be appropriate for a slim, low volume male foot and conversely a high volume, broad female foot may be better suited to the standard last).

Explode the myths!!

Scarpa develop a last to specifically suit the end use of each boot. As a result, when you step into a SCARPA boot, you can be sure it has been carefully designed to suit you and your activity. Additionally, SCARPA were the first company to develop a purpose made last for women's boots. Today every ladies specific model has a dedicated female last. These lasts are slimmer in the mid foot and heel areas (Note: This female last may also be appropriate for a slim, low volume male foot and conversely a high volume, broad female foot may be better suited to the standard last).

The midsole, sandwiched between the sole and the upper, is the hidden component in boot manufacture. In many ways it is the “engine room” of a boot and one of the most important components.