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User Review: Koflach Arctis Expe

Koflach Arctis Expe
Above: The current Arctis Expe, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed January 24, 2000 by Jon M. Wentworth

Rating: rated 3 of 5 stars
Materials: Plastic
Use: Mixed Alpine, Ice
Break-in Period: None - they're rigid
Weight: unsure, but they're definitely big
Price Paid: approx $350 US

I purchased these 30 cm monsters in Japan (where I live and climb), mainly because there was no other boot that would fit my feet. The shop owner threw in an extra pair of liners 'cause customers for this particular size range are evidently far and few between. The extra set is one size down and fits with single socks and possibly from an older model i.e. velcro, no laces.

Have used the boots for three seasons. Here's what I've learned about them:

1. Super warm. I've used the smaller liners 90% of the time, even in -18 to -20c temperatures. Have started using the lace ups only because the smaller ones have begun to rip apart near the velcro wings and sewing by hand has proven ineffective. The lace ups require double socks, are too warm and end up getting very wet inside (the moisture from using the smaller liners with one pair of socks for a week one time was tolerable, though my partners may not have thought so).

2. Super rigid, so great for front-pointing vertical ice and rock. They fit my feet perfectly so there's no problem with slippage.

3. On the other hand, the rigidity rapidly brings on Koflacitis to my shins if there's any extended walking involved, basically every time I use them. Flat snow or rock is ok, but any uphill walking turns me into a duck. Likewise, descents are particularly uncomfortable and scary, as I either have to take the punishment or allow the boots to throw me off balance as I step down. Experiments with lacing don't seem to help.

4. The shells started peeling after 2 seasons. Paper thin sheets @ 3x4 cm. Not so big and not cracks, but it does cause me some concern.

If it weren't for the discomfort caused from walking I would consider these boots again as I'm satisfied otherwise, but I'll be looking closely at the latest single construction synthetics for next season.

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