Climb Monte Rosa, which is along the wild South Face of Alagna, the majestic East face of Macugnaga, the icy West Face of Gressoney or the suggestive north side of Zermatt, And an experience that connects you to the mountains.
But without the right boots, even the most beautiful trail can become a burden. How to choose among the many models on the market?
We have analyzed the key features of the best mountaineering boots and collected reviews from our mountain guides, who live among the glaciers of Monte Rosa.
Discover the best mountaineering boots for high altitude on Monte Rosa and set off on your high altitude adventure!
1. How to choose mountaineering boots for Monte Rosa
Mountaineering boots are your bridge to the mountains: they must be comfortable, safe and suitable for the terrain. Here’s what to evaluate to find the perfect model for climbs like the one at Margherita Hut or trekking on the slopes of Monte Rosa.
1.1 Weight and lightness
Lightweight boots (600-900 g) reduce fatigue on long climbs.
Heavier models offer more support for winter or high altitude.
1.2 How to choose crampon-compatible boots
On Monte Rosa, glaciers require boots that are compatible with crampons.
But if you’re just starting out, hold off on buying your own.
Rent universal crampons for now, and when you’re ready, you’ll be able to choose the crampons that suit you best.
1.3 Waterproofing and breathability
A Gore-Tex or OutDry membrane ensures dry feet on snow or streams, like those near Macugnaga. Breathability is essential for summer approaches.
1.4 Thermal insulation
In summer, 3-season boots are sufficient for climbs such as Punta Vincent from Alagna. In winter or on peaks like Punta Dufour, you need warm boots designed for temperatures below -10°C.
1.5 Versatility
Boots like the La Sportiva Equilibrium ST GTX or the Rebel Shoe HD they pass easily from rocky paths to glaciers, perfect for all sides of Monte Rosa. Technical models are specific for waterfalls or mixed climbs, but less comfortable for trekking.
2. Reviews of Monte Rosa mountain guides
Our mountain guides, who know every ridge of Monte Rosa, share their experiences with the best mountaineering boots.
Here are their recommendations for the best mountaineering boots for climbing Monte Rosa.
Renzo Recanzone
“These are my favorite models:
La sportiva equilibrium top gtx
The Aequilibrium Speed GTX sports car (niche)
La sportiva equilibrium st gtx
Rebel shoe hd/lite hd
Tech rebel shoe (2.0/3.0)”
Fabio Rossetti
“I use the Rebel Tech shoe, the Phantom Tech shoe and I recently got a pair of North Face Torre Egger shoes, I feel good with them all”
Alberto Zucchetti
“At the moment I use a pair of mixed shoes ideal for climbs where there is also climbing to do (cresta soldier, signal etc.) then I have a heavy (therefore warmer) pair of Dolomite for long climbs on glaciers. I would recommend both of them but so do the other brands such as Sport, Gronell, Aku, Merrell etc.
Over the years I have had the opportunity to use them all and hear opinions from many guides about them.
Now all these brands have reached an excellent level and are therefore recommended, then the difference is made by subjective comfort compared to a brand and a single model.
Don’t forget the price which often has a significant impact on the choice.”
Guido Barozzi
“Of the ones I’ve tried, I definitely recommend the entire aequilibrium series from La Sportiva, the Speed GTX are the slightly prettier ones even for glaciers (and expensive).
For shoes I use the Rebel HD up to Giordani/Vincent in general and for higher things or ice waterfalls the Phantom Tech HD.
When I go away to Pakistan or India I always use the Phantom 6000 shoes.
A bit as a niche product, I highly recommend the Aku Aurai DFS, it is not a shoe for walking but more aimed at technical mountaineering. Very stiff, light and precise.”
Filippo Laurara
“The sportswoman. In reality, we “professionals” who always have our feet in our boots perceive the differences.
I recommend finding a model that is comfortable for them (now one brand is as good as another), waterproof and that can be used for more than one trip (perhaps even at lower altitudes).
And above all not too expensive.”
Marco Zaninetti
“I use Aku Croda and Viaz models.
I give customers information on brands and models, but then I tell them to choose the ones best suited to their feet.”
Teodoro Bizzocchi
“Unfortunately my feet always hurt so I tell customers to try many many brands and find the one that fits well for their foot.
In any case it can now be said that the majority of the market is in the hands of La Sportiva and Scarpa depending on the width of the plant.
I use the Garmont Vetta for trekking, via ferratas and easy hiking, for medium mountain/mountaineering La Sportiva Trango and La Sportiva Aequilibrium speed, for high mountains La Sportiva G-tech and for Margherita, White when very cold the La Sportiva G-summit.
For customers who are more or less suitable for everything, I would say the Aequilibrium LT or ST from La Sportiva and the Ribelle from Scarpa.”
Luca Avagnina
“I use the Aequilibrium Speed GTX or even ST GTX sports car. In winter I use the G5 evo sports car
Other valid ones are: Scarpa Rebel HD/lite HD and Scarpa Rebel Tech (2.0/3.0)”
Conclusion: find your best mountaineering boots for Monte Rosa
Choosing the right mountaineering boots is the first step to experiencing Monte Rosa with respect and wonder.
Whether you are climbing to the Capanna Margherita from Alagna, exploring the glaciers of Zermatt or tackling the ridges of Gressoney, a good boot accompanies you like a trusted friend.
The main requirements: warm, waterproof, with a rigid sole and high at the ankle.
Our guides give good advice, but the real secret is to try: your foot knows what it wants. From this article you have learned which are the best mountaineering boots for climbing Monte Rosa, now it’s time to put them on, take the first step and climb with us!
Do you have doubts about your boots? Send us a photo of your boots to +39 3792984459 and we will give you our opinion.
Choose your new adventure and come live it with us!
👇Here you can find our bestsellers, climbs that have made all those who have faced them fall in love.
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P.S. If you want, write to us and let us know which are your favorite boots! Maybe an article will come out with the most chosen by our readers.
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