Lowa Tibet GTX £270

This is an honest and unpretentious B1 boot with allleather uppers and a high cut that prioritises ankle protection and support over flexibility. The midsole is stiff enough to wear with strap-on crampons, yet flexible enough for big hill days, making it a versatile 3- to 4-season companion. In other words, it’s ideal for year-round hillwalkers who enjoy the odd winter foray.

It’s robust, stable and durable thanks to its 2.5mm nubuck leather construction, with a Gore-Tex lining and a full rubber rand. The ankle cuff and tongue are extremely well padded, ensuring high comfort levels, with a stable but nicely cushioned feel underfoot too.

Fit is generous in terms of volume, especially at the midfoot and toe, though there is a wide version of the Tibet too if you have very broad feet.

On test, our feet stayed warm, dry and comfortable. The Vibram outsole kept us well planted across a range of different terrain. The nicely undercut heel brake delivers reliable downhill traction, with blocky and widely spaced lugs that rarely clog. A generous rocker promotes a natural walking action, and the excellent dual-zone lacing system also ensures a precise fit, with no heel slip.

IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY

It’s the heaviest boot here, so it feels clumpier and less agile than others on test, especially on steeper ground. There’s no women’s version either (the Lady III GTX is the closest). ■ WEIGHT 1180g (size 12)

■ UPPER Nubuck leather, full rubber rand

■ MEMBRANE Gore-Tex

■ SOLE Vibram Masai

■ MEN’S SIZES 6.5-15

■ WOMEN’S SIZES n/a

Verdict

A sturdy and protective B1 boot that traditionalists will love – though others offer more precision and superior feel underfoot for scrambles and technical terrain.

“Sturdy & protective B1 boot”