AKU TENGU £300

For a full-on B2 boot, these are impressively light. Yet they have all the features that we look for in a crampon-compatible boot, including a high ankle cuff, tough uppers, a Gore-Tex lining and a full wraparound rand. They feel supportive yet comfortable, with enough cushioning for easy walking. The burly toe box is equally good for scrambling or kicking steps in snow. VERDICT A high-quality Italian-made boot with a neat and precise feel, plus plenty of clever tech that results in a light yet capable and comfortable mountaineering boot.