Salewa Rapace GTX Mountaineering Boot - Women's Shaded Spruce/Sulphur Spring 8.5 Review
The Salewa Rapace GTX Mountaineering Boot is designed for the adventurous woman who seeks both performance and comfort on challenging terrains. This lightweight boot is crafted from robust nubuck leather and abrasion-resistant textile materials, ensuring durability for your outdoor excursions. The waterproof and breathable GORE-TEX lining keeps your feet dry and comfortable, whether you're scaling rock faces or traversing alpine terrains.
Featuring an innovative 3F system, the Rapace GTX provides excellent ankle support and flexibility, allowing you to navigate rugged landscapes with ease. The Vibram WTC outsole boasts a dynamic profile that enhances grip, making it ideal for rocky surfaces. Meanwhile, SALEWA's Bilight technology in the midsole offers exceptional ergonomic cushioning, striking the perfect balance between comfort and stability.
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Features
- Upper Material: 1.8mm Nubuck leather
- 3F System with Steel Cables for ankle support
- 360° full rubber rand for added protection
- Bilight Midsole for superior cushioning
- Stiffness: Nylon + 27% Fiberglass
- TPU Midsole
- Vibram WTC Outsole for excellent grip
- MFF+ Footbed for personalized fit
- GORE-TEX Performance Comfort lining for climate control
- Crampon compatible for mountaineering use
Pros
- Lightweight design enhances agility
- Excellent grip on various terrains
- Durable construction for longevity
- Comfortable cushioning for extended wear
- Waterproof features keep feet dry
Cons
- May require a break-in period
- Higher price point compared to basic hiking boots
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Salewa Rapace GTX | Scarpa Drago GTX | La Sportiva Trango Cube GTX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightweight | Moderate | Lightweight |
| Waterproof Lining | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX | GORE-TEX |
| Ankle Support | High | Medium | High |
| Grip | Vibram WTC | Vibram | Vibram |
| Crampon Compatibility | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Detailed Review
When it comes to mountaineering footwear, the Salewa Rapace GTX stands out due to its thoughtful design and high-quality materials. The upper made of 1.8mm nubuck not only offers robustness but also ensures a stylish appearance. The unique 3F system integrates steel cables, providing unmatched ankle support while maintaining necessary flexibility for movement.
The boot’s GORE-TEX lining plays a crucial role in facilitating moisture management, essential for long days outdoors. The breathable aspect allows sweat vapor to escape, maintaining a comfortable environment inside the boot.
While the Vibram WTC outsole delivers excellent traction on varying surfaces, you might find the need to acclimate to the boots during the first few uses as they can feel stiff initially. Nevertheless, after breaking them in, they provide outstanding support and stability, proving to be reliable companions for via ferrata routes and more technical climbs.
Another highlight is the Bilight midsole technology, which ensures that each step is cushioned, reducing fatigue during prolonged adventures. The circumferential rubber rand protects against sharp rocks, ensuring durability in rugged conditions.
In summary, if you are serious about mountaineering and need a boot that combines proficiency with comfort, the Salewa Rapace GTX is an excellent choice.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional cushioning and a snug fit |
| Durability | 9/10 | High-quality materials ensure long-lasting use |
| Support | 8/10 | Great ankle support through 3F system |
| Traction | 9/10 | Reliable grip on rocky terrains with Vibram outsole |
| Water Resistance | 10/10 | GORE-TEX lining effectively keeps moisture out |
User Reviews
These shoes are quality!! No expense spared in the construction.