Scarpa Manta Tech GTX £300

Often described as the ‘benchmark’ 4-season mountaineering boot, the Scarpa Manta is a perennial Trail ‘Best in Test’ winner. This latest version is built on the same last as the previous generation but has a more modern look thanks to redesigned uppers with fewer panels, reduced stitching and a partial TPU rand, which cuts weight. It’s still not lightweight, but then this is a boot built definitively for winter mountains. As such, it now has beefed up insulation for colder conditions.

The outsole is the reliable and durable Vibram Mulaz S unit, which has a front climbing zone for precise scrambling. The boot is equipped with a heel welt for an optimal fit with C2 crampons. In terms of overall fit it is medium to high volume, which gives ample room for your chunkiest winter socks.

They are fairly wide compared to other boots on test here.

But we found them to be very comfy, with no rubbing or hotspots. Despite the stiffness of the midsole and the sturdy cuff, there is a good amount of ankle flex and a little cushioning underfoot.

Some still might find them a little too heavy, bulky and sweaty for all-day walking, but then this is a boot for tackling tough terrain in cold conditions, and for that sort of stuff there is no better performer.

IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY Inevitably, a big tough mountaineering boot like this tends to feel a little clumpy compared to lighter, less capable boots. The broad fit and higher volume last also may not suit narrow feet.

■ UPPER 3mm Perwanger Suede and wraparound rubberPU rand

■ MEMBRANE Gore-Tex Insulated Comfort

■ SOLE Vibram Mulaz S

■ MEN’S SIZES EU 40-48

■ WOMEN’S SIZES EU 36-42 ■ WEIGHT PER BOOT 1080g (men’s size EU 47)

“No better boot for tough terrain in cold conditions”