Salewa Pro Gaiter Review
July 31, 2014
80 The Good
- Integrated gaiter offers superior protection
- Climbs technical terrain well
- Hike mode is more flexible than most single mountain boots
- Warmer than traditional single boots
The Bad
- Heavier than most competitors
- Not as dexterous and nimble as some competitors
- Walk/climb mode adjustment is difficult
- Somewhat difficult to lace and adjust
The Salewa Pro Gaiter is a solid “one-and-a-half” all around boot that eats up technical terrain with ease and can handle long approaches. It’s a bit heavy compared to its competitors. As with competing boots, the Pro Gaiter’s price tag is substantially more than traditional single boots, but the added warmth and protection of the integrated gaiter adds value.
Value
The Salewa Pro Gaiter is neither the cheapest nor the priciest boot in the category (integrated-gaiter mountain boot).
Warmth
The Pro Gaiter proved to be toasty warm. I found the Salewa Pro Gaiters are significantly warmer than modern synthetic single boots such as the La Sportiva Trango Extreme.
Climbing Ability
Overall, the Pro Gaiter boots performed well on all terrain, but especially on steep snow and technical rock. They are a bit thicker than some boots, though, which decreased their dexterity when scrambling.
Hiking Ability
The Salewa Pro Gaiter’s hiking ability turned out to be a mixed bag. The walk mode was quite comfortable and flexible, making hiking a joy. Unfortunately, this adjustable mechanism adds substantial weight, which tires the legs on long approaches.
Quality of construction/workmanship
The Pro Gaiter absorbed a lot abuse but they showed little to no wear in such areas as the crampon attachment points. Some features such as the lace locks seem a bit flimsy. The TIZIP gaiter zippers held up without fail or any sign of damage.
Fit
Boot fit is such a personal thing, but I did develop some heel blisters in the adjustment phase, which I haven’t experienced with other boots. The supreme flexibility of the walk mode may make them more likely to rub than stiffer competition.
No reviews have been posted for this product.
