User Review: La Sportiva Makalu

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

Reviewed July 16, 2003 by James

Rating: rated 4 of 5 stars
Materials: Roughout Leather
Use: Off-path backpacking on steep gradients
Break-in Period: 2 to 10 weeks!
Price Paid: Over $200!!!!!

I am on my second pair. I walk about 130 km a month in the Drakensberg in South Africa at altitudes up to 11,500 ft, mostly off-path. First pair broke after 7 months. Nylon midsole delaminated from outer sole on both shoes.

Second pair has lasted longer and was much more comfortable with new lining. I have broad feet but no problems. This boot gives more secure footing on rough terrain (grass slopes and scree) than any other I have owned and still flexible enough to walk properly. Can also use for ice-climbing but a bit too flexible to front-point properly. I just think they could use better glue to stick them together (e.g. Liquisole instead of the cheap stuff they use). The boots are cold in snow but very waterproof in cold conditions. Not so waterproof in warm rainy weather (2 hrs max.)

In spite of the problems I will still buy another pair, preferably the Gore-Tex lined version!!!

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 (Spring 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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