Scarpa Delta GTX Woman
+ single-piece leather upper; rubber toe rand; ergonomic design for high comfort
– not as precise on rock as some others; sole feels quite high
A first look ticks a lot of boxes: leather upper; Gore-Tex lining; chunky Vibram sole. A rubber rand protects toes against bumps and the leather from scuffing. Most of the notable features are hidden and fall under the Activ-Fit banner, including a women’s last and insulated, mouldable insole. They‘re jammed with technology to increase comfort, support and freedom of movement. 5/5
Moulded around the LBE (a new women’s last), the Delta has increased space at the toe box, a narrower heel and a new profile to support the foot while allowing natural movement. Any initial stiffness softens in time, and you can create a more precise fit, thanks in part to the lacing running to the ball of the foot. Sizes are 37-42 for women and 41-48 for men. 4/5
Scarpa invests a great deal in providing effective support while allowing the foot and ankle to move freely. It works. Ergonomic design and features such as memory foam padding around the Achilles and an Autofit collar at the ankle offer support without constriction. You don’t notice the technology, only its comfy effect, and with boot care that already high level will only increase. 5/5
Comfy from the start. While I experienced some vague heel lift, this hasn’t developed into hot spots. The rolling action aids momentum on long, flattish walks, and they handle rough, steep ground well too, with good freedom of movement and support. Not as precise as the Trango Trek for scrambling, but you do still get a positive grip on rock. 4/5
The price is high, but you get high build quality. With care these will not only last but also become more comfortable. 4/5
Ideal for hillwalking and backpacking. Only those dedicated to more technical routes may want something 4.4/5 different to these.