Mountaineering boots
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mountaineering boots are a type of footwear for the extreme sport of mountain climbing, wherein the feet need special protection from the cold and support for the tedious task of clinging on rough or snow-filled terrain.
Not to be confused with mere hiking boots, mountaineering boots are usually taller, harder, and more insulated to keep your feet warm – a requirement when reaching for the top of snowy mountains. They are tall so as to cover the ankles, a vulnerable part of the body when it is engaged in this sport (or rescue, whatever the purpose may be). These boots are either made of leather or plastic, with a sole providing enough traction for adhering to icy slopes or loose landscape.
Some mountaineering boots also come with a waterproof feature. They have a few strategically located stitches to prevent water from seeping in, although getting the double-plastic kind is already a guarantee that you are getting the watertight type.
The versatility of these boots also makes them a staple in activities other than mountaineering. With their durability and extreme-weather adaptability, they are also seen worn by snow-ploughers, cable car operators, mountain rangers (especially in the winter), and as earlier mentioned, by rescue paramedics.
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[edit] Other Uses
They are designed for use with crampons, insulated, and stiff. The stiffness provides the necessary ankle support for such activities as ice climbing, mixed climbing, and crevasse traverse and rescue. They are not completely stiff like ski boots as they need some degree of flexibility for activities such as hiking and snowshoeing. In comparison to standard hiking boots they are stiffer, taller, insulated for more extreme cold conditions, and are crampon-compatible which hiking boots generally are not. Semi-rigid backpacking boots exist which are hiking boots designed for extended backpacking trips or for rough terrain and may include some of the features of mountaineering boots, such as high uppers and crampon compatibility, while not being stiff enough for front pointing. Mountaineering boots of any kind including plastic are also good choices for snowshoeing and can be used as work boots for some outdoor jobs in cold, snowy conditions such as ski lift operators and snowcat drivers, but plastic boots are not useful for general backpacking.
[edit] Buying and Maintenance Guide
Here are some tips to remember when buying and taking care of your mountaineering boots:
- Spotting the perfect pair: Mountaineering boots are generally heavier and more rigid than other boots (like the ones for hillwalking or backpacking).
- Finding the right fit: Try them on in the afternoon (to better mimic the swell that the feet give when walking). They should fit snugly around the heel and ankle parts, but leave enough room to allow wiggling and curling your toes every once in a while.
- Looking after your pair: Leather boots need to be proofed every once in a while with wax to ensure their water-resistance. For both leather and plastic boots, keep them out of the sun. Change laces every year or depending on the wear situation.
- Cleaning the inside: After a wet walk, lift the foot-beds out of the shoes to dry (by air, not sunlight). Stuff the boots with newspaper in the meantime. Wearing fast-drying socks made from natural fabrics will also ensure not only your comfort but also the long life of the in-soles.
If you are really the outdoorsy type of person, getting yourself a pair of mountaineering boots is a must–their versatility will see you through a host of extreme activities that you might find yourself in. And with proper care and maintenance, your durable pair will last years and years of your living on the edge.
