You should now be able to see approximately 2 cm (about an index fingers width) of the footbed poking out in front of your toes. The Rapace GTX features a Bilight TPU midsole which has been designed for long-lasting and ergonomic cushioning, this has been paired with a Vibram WTC outsole for amazing traction and grip with a natural feel. For crampon compatibility, the Rapace GORE-TEX is stiff enough to take semi-automatic crampons.

Unlike most, quite frankly pretty poor footbeds, Salewa's MMF footbed (multi fit footbed) gives you a comfortable and supportive main footbed and enclosed in the box is a second one which can be added to reduce the volume of the boot; this allows you to customise the fit depending on the volume and shape of your foot. Overall, they have a roomy toe box, without being too wide, and they fit securely around the ankle with a nicely close-fitting heel cup. The fit would suit most people, unless you have very wide and high-volume feet. But remember, you can adjust the MMF footbed to fine tune the fit.Increasing comfort is Salewa's dual-density Bilight Technology. This technology has been applied to the midsole of the boot to cushion hard impacts (especially during descents) and to provide superior support thanks to the 3D, ergonomically shaped, design which cradles your foot throughout the day. One possible issue to keep in mind here is that this shoe is potentially a little tight over the top. One buyer says they may have been better off with a bigger size than normal.

These shoes tend to live up to their promises of protection for walking and climbing. While they may not be the toughest out there for mountain climbing, they are still pretty reliable with their durable materials and ergonomic fit. The Salewa Rapace GTX Hiking Boots have a lot of great features to protect wearers during various activities. As long as you get a pair that fits well and don’t have any of those immediate issues with the stitching, there shouldn’t be too many problems here. One of the strengths of these trekking shoes is undoubtedly their lightness: with a weight of 1528 g, they guarantee a light stride and do not affect the load that the hiker has to carry, which also means less physical exertion. The leather upper with rubber detailing is sturdy and stable, while the slightly lower shaft compared to many models in the same category can be a pro or a con depending on one's needs and preferences: if, in fact, on the one hand it manages to provide less support, on the other hand it leaves more freedom of movement. Sole Characteristics

Salewa Rapace GTX Mountaineering Boot - Men's

But, there is also the suggestion that this problem could sort itself out after breaking the shoes in. Aside from that, there are some rare comments about faults and breakages soon after getting the shoes. There are also plenty of positive comments about the comfort provided here. Again, there are lots of elements across the Salewa hiking boots that show consideration for the needs of users. This test will tell you if the shape of the internal heel cup matches your heel to ensure it holds you securely, especially when ascending steep ground. We are trying to eliminate the dreaded heel blister.

Underneath the tough outer is a fully waterproof Gore-Tex membrane. As well as keeping your feet dry and comfortable, it allows your sweat to escape, reducing overall moisture build-up inside the boot. So far so good on fit. The footbed construction is firm but not rigid, and the vibram sole provides very good traction. So, there isn’t much to lose in giving these well-considered Salewa walking boots a try for your next adventure.Now that your boots are done up properly stand up on your tiptoes and walk on the spot on the balls of your feet as if you are walking up a steep hill. If your heels lift more than approximately 5mm from the footbed you may need to pull the laces tighter, or the boots may just be the wrong shape for you. Overall, most buyers are happy to wear these long-term and some even find that they become the most-used shoes in their collection. The Rapace GTX is a tough, beautifully made alpine trekking and lightweight mountaineering boot with superb underfoot comfort and flexible support for unrivalled comfort during long treks and arduous mountain days. It's ideal for alpine trekking, scrambling or via-ferrata and will accept semi-automatic crampons for a spot of winter mountaineering. The Women's Rapace GTX from Salewa is a versatile, lightweight and comfortable crampon-compatible boot, ideal for weight-conscious mountain hikers and via ferratas mountaineering