![]() ![]() The “climbing zone” at the forefoot is a smooth patch of rubber built for traction on rock, while the square lugs and heel brake help with grip on soft surfaces, including mud and snow. In keeping with the boot’s hybrid nature, the Trango Tech’s Vibram Cube sole nicely blends hiking and climbing performance. All told, the Trango Tech is a class leader in terms of performance for its weight. For example, the Scarpa Zodiac Tech GTX-which has a similarly low-profile and waterproof build with a heel welt-comes in slightly heavier at 2 pounds 5.4 ounces. Outside of La Sportiva offerings, the Trango Tech GTX is one of the lightest hybrids on the market. For reference, the TX4 approach shoe weighs 1 pound 4.8 ounces per pair, while the Trango Cube GTX (lightweight mountaineering boot) is 2 pounds 12 ounces. In my opinion, this lack of heft is well worth the tradeoffs in stability and durability (more on this below).Ĭompared to other boots in La Sportiva’s extensive mountain-ready lineup, the Trango Tech GTX predictably falls between dedicated hiking and mountaineering boots. While rock climbing in the Alaska Range, I often toted the Trango Tech on my climbing harness and barely noticed the bulk or weight. Put simply, the ability to shave ounces off of your kit is essential when you have to carry your boots while climbing (think up-and-over routes or those with snow travel high up). When you need a boot firm enough to kick steps and accommodate a semi-automatic crampon but also light and comfortable enough to hike below treeline or even climb sections of low-5th-class terrain, the Trango Tech is up to the task.Īt a listed 2 pounds 2.8 ounces for a women’s pair (my size 40s clocked in slightly heavier at 2 pounds 7.6 ounces), the Trango Tech GTX is impressively light for a boot that can handle steep snow and even ice. For me, this combination makes the Trango Tech perfect for summer alpine objectives-think the Bugaboos, North Cascades, or early season in the Tetons or Sierra. And finally, the heel welt is compatible with semi-automatic crampons. Further, the Vibram Cube outsole is an effective mix of durable and sticky. The inner Gore-Tex membrane and gaiter-like cuff provide solid waterproofing for snow travel while still maintaining ample breathability and flexibility for long days on the trail. The Trango Tech GTX is stiffer and more protective than the average hiker but more low-profile and responsive than a burly mountaineering boot. The Trango Tech effectively bridges that gap, making it ideal for all-in-one missions that involve long approaches, snow travel, and rock climbing. I’ve often griped about my approach shoes not being burly or supportive enough to kick steps in snow or securely fit a crampon, and similarly bemoaned my mountaineering boots for being too stiff and bulky to hike or climb rock. For many climbers and alpine scramblers, it’s a niche piece that fills a previously gaping hole in footwear options. To see how it stacks up to the competition, see our articles on the best mountaineering boots and best approach shoes.īlurring the line between hiking and mountaineering boot, the La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX is designed for long days in the mountains that start below treeline, travel over snow, and end high on rock summits. ![]() Below we break down our experiences with the Trango Tech. In the end, despite its streamlined and lightweight build, the Trango Tech thoroughly impressed us with its remarkable stability and on-trail performance. We took the hybrid (both the men's and women's versions) on an expedition into the Alaska Range, using it as our do-all boot for steep snow travel, glacier and moraine crossings, and cross-country hiking. Specificationsīrand: La SportivaMfg Sku/Part Number: 24ZGender: Women’sWaterproof: YesWeight: 13.40 oz (381 g)Last: Women’s TempoUpper: Nubuck leather / Nano-Cell™ insert / Vibram® rubber rand and toe capLining: Gore-Tex® Surround™Insole: 4mm Ortholite Insole / 4mm Woven Polyester Gore-Tex® Surround™ Spacer / 2.Designed for long, demanding missions in the mountains, La Sportiva’s Trango Tech GTX effectively bridges the gap between a hiking and mountaineering boot. Featuring award-winning Gore-Tex® Surround™ technology with a traditional Nubuck leather look, this hiking boot is the ultimate combination of durability, protection and comfort. The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX women’s offers best-in class breathability in a mid-duty waterproof hiker/backpacking boot. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |