La Sportiva Karakorum HC GTX £310

For a boot named after a fearsome mountain range, the B2-rated Karakorum HC (High Collar) GTX is suitably hardcore, well-built and impressive.

It has a more traditional construction than many of La Sportiva’s mountaineering boots, despite being newly released in the UK in 2021, and features a sturdy 2.8mm-thick, one-piece leather upper, GoreTex Performance Comfort liner, sturdy wraparound rand and bombproof toe box.

The fit is relatively broad and the all-round build is as strong as an ox, with a very stiff base and C2 crampon compatibility. Yet comfort is surprisingly decent, courtesy of the upper’s ‘3D flex system’.

The TPU welt insert in the heel locks securely with your crampons and the Vibram Impact Brake System outsole delivers good traction on both the ascent and descent.

Overall, these boots look and perform similarly to the Scarpa Manta Techs, which can only be a positive thing.

IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY

It’s both the heaviest and most expensive boot on test, so for many it’ll be either too unwieldy or too pricey. The ankle cuff is very high (the highest on test), which some might find unnecessary, and the sole has a rather pronounced curve, meaning it’d be prudent to check the fit if you have straight crampons.

■ MEN’S SIZES EU 38-48 ■ WOMEN’S SIZES EU 38-48 ■ WEIGHT PER BOOT 961g (EU 43)

Verdict

A muscular, durable and wellmade boot for winter hills – but it’s heavy and expensive.

“Hardcore, well-built & impressive”