Scarpa Inverno Mountaineering Boots - Waterproof, Insulated (For Men)

Purchased this boot to climb Mt Rainier. Sizing instructions said to purchase a half size bigger than your US size. I am US size 12 and bought UK size 12.5. I thought they would fit well but after one training hike the boot was definately too small. I ended up with a UK size 13.5 and they fit perfectly with medium weight cold weather hiking socks. I have climbed in Asolo mountaineering boots and they cannot compare to the performance of the Inverno. The lacing on the bootie prevents your foot from slopping around and allows the bootie to move inside of the plastic boot. Any friction occurs between the plastic outer boot and the bootie, not your feet and the bootie. The Asolos booties have a velcro closure and my foot slops around causing blisters with a heavy pack on. The Inverno offers great stability and good traction. My aluminum and steel crampons fit without problems. These are very warm boots. I really didn't need a heavy skiing type sock to keep my feet warm. The plastic outer boot is very durable and supported by ankle when I postholed up to my hip. My foot got stuck between some rocks under the snow as I fell downhill. The boot secured my foot and ankle and I was not injured thanks to these bomb proof boots. Be careful on the sizing. If possible, try it on before you buy.

Excellent pair of boots

I use these boots to make snow at a ski hill in some pretty crazy conditions! So far, these are the best boots I've used for work!

I wear a US size 12 and purchased a UK 12 which is a US 13 1/2. They fit great!! The last thing I want in cold weather is a tight boot that cuts off circulation these are roomy and comfortable. Toss in a pair of green SuperFeet Insoles and they are as close to perfect as you can expect from a plastic boot. The only "Con" is that the tongue is not gusseted at all so these are not a waterproof as my Asolo's. Great boot if you can get them on closeout!!! Good boot if you are paying full price.

I took these new boots straight from the box to the Chiminey Couloir and the Little Italy Couloir on Pikes Peak the next day. No blisters or hot spots. Crampons stayed-put nicely. They are squeaky, but a thin coating of vaseline where plastic rubs on plastic will take the squeak away. Lace them tight over the foot and loose around the ankle to mitigate shin bang.