User Review: Kayland Men's Vertigo High

I was looking for a lighter-weight boot for more difficult, scrambling hikes that might include some very easy rock climbing and crossing of snow fields. This boot appears to be a perfect choice for peak-bagging with a light load on my back.

The design of the Vertigo High strikes a nice balance between providing support and allowing me to remain nimble.

They feel very light on my feet compared to my full-on trekking and winter climbing boots. Yet the soles are stiff enough to give me good support and protection. The cut of the boots is somewhat asymmetrical - the inside of the forefoot/big toe area is shaped a little bit like a rock-climbing shoe, which adds to my confidence in these boots when scrambling up alpine rock.

My understanding of eVent (as opposed to Gore-Tex) is that it might not be as waterproof, but it is more breathable. My experience with these boots in brief splashes through streams and a bit of walking across slushy snow fields is that they are definitely water-proof enough for my needs; and, pretty decent in their breathability. I'll need more time in them to give a conclusive answer on that though. I haven't subjected them to prolonged wet conditions yet.

The fit is pretty true to size. I am usually between an 8.5 or 9 (US sizing). With these, I went with the 9.

All in all, an excellent boot for mountain scrambles.