Scarpa R-Evolution GTX Review

December 7, 2016
Scarpa R-Evolution GTX
Scarpa_r-evolution-0.jpg
Scarpa R-Evolution GTX Scarpa_r-evolution-0.jpg
GEAR INSTITUTE RATINGS
83
Support & Stability
6
Protection
7
Comfort
6
Traction
7
Weight
7

The Good

  • Short break-in time
  • Comfortable feel
  • Wider toe box

The Bad

  • Not as comfortable on downhills
  • Loose fitting
THE VERDICT

The Scarpa R-Evolution is a suede leather boot that has similar features as the other boots tested but with a slightly clunkier feel and without the extra comfort of others in the test.

FULL REVIEW

Support & Stability
The R-Evolution uses Revolution EVA midsoles and Hi-Flex insoles which both provide for a decent amount of support. The insoles work fine, though are nothing special. The midsoles felt comfortable enough for most normal length days though on long days they started to become less comfortable. They fit to above the ankle so they provide a good amount of stability even on loose terrain but tend to be a bit less comfortable on the downhills.

Protection
The upper material of the R-Evolution is made of a water-resistant suede which seemed surprisingly durable for all conditions. The boot is lined with Gore-Tex so that they are fully waterproof. They use a speed lacing system that tightens down easily but that doesn’t quite tighten enough for a smaller volume foot. The laces are also very thin and don’t seem as durable as the laces on most of the other boots tested. 

Comfort
Straight out of the box these boots were more comfortable than expected. They had a very short break-in time but after a full day of hiking they weren’t as comfortable as the Salomon Quest or La Sportiva Trango. They caused some rubbing on the ankle bones but overall have a good amount of padding throughout the boot to fit most foot types. These boots do feature a wider toe box similar to the Salomon Quest so that your toes have plenty of room on long hikes.

Traction
The traction of this boot was on the higher end compared to the other boots in the category. The boots use a Vibram Driade sole that have wide grooves so they don’t clog with mud and dirt. When travelling down steep rocky slabs the boots felt very secure. However, the one downside was that the boot never felt tight enough around the foot so when going downhill there was a bit of looseness and subsequent toe jamming even with the laces tightened down fully. 

Weight
The R-Evolution comes in at 20 oz for one boot, which is about the same for all but the La Sportiva Trango. While they have the feel of a light backpacking boot, they do tend to feel a bit more clunky compared to La Sportiva Trango or even the Lowa Lady Light. 

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