How to Choose Mountaineering Boots

Co-authored by Hunter Rising

Last Updated: October 25, 2021 References

Mountaineering can be anything from climbing small glaciers to climbing Mount Everest, but you need the proper boots to stay warm and comfortable. Mountaineering boots come in many different styles, each used for different aspects of your climb. Some may work better on gentle slopes while others are used for more difficult climbs. Whatever boots you plan on buying, just be sure to try them on first!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:
Choosing Your Boot Material

1
Use lightweight synthetic boots if you’re doing easy climbs. Synthetic boots usually contain a mixture of fabric and plastic to make travel easier and more comfortable. Synthetic boots work best for gentle slopes and warmer conditions, such as near the base of a mountain.^{[1]
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- Synthetic boots aren’t as supportive if you’re climbing steep ice and they may be less durable over time.
- Synthetic boots are usually not as warm as double-layered boots and they will take longer to dry.
2
Try leather boots for comfort and durability during most climbs. Leather boots are comfortable to wear, easy to break in, and are durable enough for dealing with the elements. Make sure your leather boots come up past your ankle for better support and control. Look for boots that have built-in insulation so your feet stay warm.^{[2]
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- Leather boots are heavier than synthetic boots, but not as heavy as double-layer boots.
3
Get double-layered plastic boots for climbs that last multiple days. Double-layered boots usually have a waterproof plastic outer layer to help keep your feet dry. The inner fabric layer can be removed at the end of the day so they can dry or so you can warm them up while you sleep. If you have a climb that goes overnight or lasts longer than 3 days, buy double-layered boots to stay comfortable.^{[3]
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- Double-layered boots are heavier, so you may have to climb slower while wearing them.
4
Look for boots with integrated gaiters to prevent snow from getting inside. Gaiters are protective sleeves around the cuff of your boot that prevent snow and ice from getting inside. Some boots have gaiters integrated into the liner that seal around your legs so you don’t need to pack additional gaiters. Try boots that have built-in gaiters if you plan on climbing in areas that have heavy amounts of snow or ice.^{[4]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:
Picking the Right Flexibility

1
Choose flexible boots for easier slopes. Flexible boots are the most comfortable to wear since they bend at the soles easily. If you only plan on doing light hikes or climbing gentle slopes, look for boots that have flexibility so your feet don’t ache at the end of your climb.^{[5]
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- Don’t use flexible boots if you have to climb steep slopes since you won’t have the same level of control.
- The flexibility will be labeled on the boot’s packaging or info page online. Look for the flexibility information before you make your purchase.
2
Pick medium flex boots for moderate snow and ice routes. Medium flex boots are semi-flexible, but they offer more rigidity so you can climb in cracks and on low angle ice. Make sure the boots come past your ankle for support and that the soles are firm so you can climb routes easily. If you aren’t mountaineering at high altitudes, use your medium flex boots.^{[6]
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3
Wear rigid boots if you’re doing technical ice climbs. Rigid boots don’t bend at the sole and are used during the most difficult climbs since they allow you to support your body weight near the toes. If you plan on climbing at higher altitudes or ascending steep ice or rock faces, make sure your boots are rigid and don’t bend when you move your feet around.^{[7]
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- Don’t hike on gentle slopes with rigid boots since they won’t be as comfortable as something with more flexibility.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:
Trying On Boots

1
Tap the toe of the boot against the ground to see if your foot has enough room. Put on the mountaineering boots and lace them tightly so they’re snug on your feet. Kick the toe of your boot against the floor and check if your toes slide forward. If your toes hit the end of your boot after your kick, get boots that are ½-size larger so you don’t bang your toes while you’re descending.^{[8]
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2
Get a boot that’s a half-size larger than your normal shoe size. Mountaineering boots will feel uncomfortable if you don’t have extra toe room. Start looking for boots that are at least a half-size larger than your street shoes so they have a looser and more relaxed fit around your toes. If your feet still feel tight in boots that are a half-size larger, then go up a full shoe size instead.^{[9]
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- You can buy mountaineering boots from sporting goods stores.
- Most mountaineering boots are listed in men’s European sizes. Make sure to check the boot’s label to see what sizing scale they use.
- Try on many different styles of boots to find what fits best on your feet.
3
Put on the socks you’d wear during your climb before you try on shoes. Since you’ll be wearing insulated socks while you climb, bring a pair with you when you try on boots. Put on your socks as you put on your boots so you know if they’ll have a comfortable fit while you’re out in the elements. The boots should feel secure around your ankles when you have your socks on.^{[10]
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- Many of the boots may feel tighter when you first put them on, but the inner liners will mold to your feet over time.
4
Bring crampons with you to see if they fit on the boots you’re trying. Crampons are spikes that attach to the bottom of your boots that make it easier to climb ice and steep rocks. If you already have crampons, take them with you when you try on mountaineering boots to see if they fit the boots you like. Certain styles may not fit the crampons you already have, so make sure your new boots are compatible.^{[11]
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- If you don’t already have crampons, make sure to buy a pair that attach to your boots easily.
- You can buy crampons from sporting goods stores.

Warnings

One style of boots won’t work for every climb. Make sure to change which boots you’re using dependent on the mountain conditions.

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