Evaluation of La Sportiva's Trango Tech GTX Shoes: A Comprehensive Assessment
For those embarking on mountaineering expeditions, choosing the right footwear is crucial. One boot that has garnered attention is the La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX. Let's delve into its features and compare it with similar options in the market.
The Trango Tech GTX is a versatile option that bridges the gap between hiking and mountaineering, offering great all-around performance for trail, rock, and technical snow. Weighing just 2 pounds 2.8 ounces for a women's pair, this boot is impressively light for a boot that can handle steep snow and ice. Its design prioritises breathability, outperforming most other mountaineering boots in this aspect. The boot features a waterproof upper and Gore-Tex lining, plus a mid-height design and stretchy gaiter designed to keep snow out. However, in challenging Alaska Range conditions, it struggled to keep feet dry due to wet snow and soggy tundra.
If you're seeking a step up in performance from the Trango Tech, the Scarpa Charmoz HD is a popular choice. This boot offers a slightly warmer, burlier build with added stability and power while kicking in steps. On the other hand, for those looking for a lighter hiking option, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is a great choice, offering excellent performance for lighter hiking needs.
For mountaineers seeking boots comparable to the Trango Tech GTX, consider the La Sportiva Aequilibrium LT GTX. This boot offers excellent alpine touring and trekking performance with a focus on durability and traction, weighing approximately 1,280 g for a medium-sized pair. Another option is the La Sportiva Trango Alpine GTX, known for its stability and versatility in challenging terrain.
Lastly, La Sportiva also sells a leather version of the Trango Tech, which retails for $249 and checks in at 2 pounds 4.6 ounces for the women's version. For most hiking and backpacking, the Salomon Quest 4D 3 GTX is a nice option, but it lacks a heel welt for semi-automatic crampon compatibility and has a bit of give in the midfoot, which can cause it to feel slightly insecure in a crampon.
In conclusion, the La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX is a well-made and versatile mountaineering boot that offers excellent performance in a range of conditions. When considering alternatives, the Aequilibrium LT GTX, Trango Alpine GTX, and the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX are worth exploring, each catering to different needs and preferences.
- The La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX, with its versatility, excels in various activities including trail, rock, and technical snow, making it a desirable choice for backpacking excursions and camping trips.
- For those requiring enhanced mountaineering capabilities, the Scarpa Charmoz HD is an alternative, offering increased warmth, stability, and power for challenging mountain climbing.
- For hikers seeking a lighter option, the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX is a suitable choice, catering to lighter hiking needs, yet it may not offer the same semi-automatic crampon compatibility as other sports-oriented boots.
