Gear Guide 2009: Scarpa Kailash GTX Boot Review
This Gore-Tex hiking boot has only improved since we named it Editors' Choice last year.
Editors’ Choice Update
This midweight emerged as our favorite boot last year (Editors’ Choice Award, 4/08), and several subsequent months of testing only reinforced our high opinion of it. It’s technically a spring-through-fall boot, but one Boulder editor even wore his while snowshoeing in the Rockies; the Gore-Tex membrane kept his feet warm and dry. Comfort is out-of-the-box excellent, thanks in part to suede uppers that soften and conform to feet on the first trip. With moderate stiffness, good armor, and cushion underfoot to protect against rocks and prevent foot fatigue–and enough rigidity for off-trail forays–even long days with 40-pound loads were a breeze. A sign of the times: The price has jumped 16 bucks in 2009. But it’s still a good deal, as the excellent construction should last years. Best for medium-volume feet. $185; 2 lbs. 12 oz. Scarpa.net