User Review: La Sportiva Makalu

La Sportiva Makalu
Above: The current Makalu, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed September 2, 1998 by an anonymous hiker

Rating: rated 5 of 5 stars
Materials: leather
Use: distance backpacking, rough trail, kicking down doors
Break-in Period: 50 miles
Price Paid: $235 US

I purchased these boot around Christmastime and couldn't wait to use them. The worked wonderfully in the snow. I keep them water proofed with Nikwax aqueous solution. They kept my feet warm as long as I kept moving. The use of gaiters will make them even more unstoppable in the snow.

I've also used them in many off trail excursions. The high ankle support and rigid sole allows you to go anywhere without fear of twisting an ankle or feeling the bite of a bad step.

The biggest test for my boots so far have been 320 miles on the Colorado Trail. My feet were noticibly worn during the begining of the trip but I attribute that to the nature of the everyday hiking. Even after 320 miles the only wear on the boots is a small amount of rubber worn off of the sole under the toe from pushing off.

Overall, a fantastic boot if you have the money. It will last you forever. I can't wait to try them on the snow and ice some more this winter.

Where to Buy

Buy Online We found the Makalu at 2 online stores:

StoreProduct DescriptionPrice

Moosejaw
2 purchase options:		Women's Makalu Boot (Spring 2008)$255.00Buy Now
Men's Makalu Boot (Fall 2008)$270.00Buy Now

Backcountry.com
2 purchase options:		Makalu Mountaineering Boot - Men's$269.95Buy Now
Makalu Mountaineering Boot - Women's$269.95Buy Now

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