Scarpa ZG 20

I used this boot for about 2 years on and off trail in forests, grass, dirt, mud, snow, stone fields and rock, usually carrying 10Kg.

The boot felt good to walk in immediately. It held up pretty well in most conditions, including climbing/descending/contouring steep dirt, grass and stone fields off trail. It is also OK for some snow use and quick stream crossings. However I found that the sole can be quite slippery on some rock. I used them in temperatures from -5 to 40C without any problems.

If you require a lot of support, then the quite soft tops won't be ideal, however I found the freedom they allowed appealing on steep terrain, while they still allowed me to edge quite well when contouring. However the boot is not very comfortable when climbing up very steep slopes. Running in these boots is awkward.

there are only two great boots out in the crammed niche of true hikers. the scarpa sl m3's and the new scarpa zg 20's are superior to any commericial boot made. the zg 20' will give the sl m3's a run for the money. they are lighter, cost a little less, but are rock tough. when you wear either of these boots in the most rugged terrain for 12 hours with a 30 pound pack, you will have forgotten how much they cost because you will happier with these hikers than any boot you have ever worn; 42 years of trekking and i have never had better boots. and i have spent a lot of time and money trying to find the best. i just hope scarpa never stops making them. marc adin.