Scarpa Manta 2009

I hurridly ordered these boots 3 days before a hike and scramble around the mountains in North Wales. Literaly straight out of the box and onto the hills through ice and bog and up quite a few scramble sections and they were absolutely fantastic. I opted for the non GSB version simply on the reviews I had read and found with a pair of Grivel Air crampons proved to be a good combination. The sole is stiff enough for all day crampon use yet comfortable for general hiking and after 9 solid hours of mixed terrain not the slightest sign of a blister. If there is only one piece of kit that you are able or willing to splash out on, then these should be at the top of your shopping list

(Written by: Billhilly)

This boot is a perfect solution when approaching snow-covered slopes. As a walking boot the stiffness of the sole requires less foot pushing effort on the non-snow areas. The boots seem to do most of the work for the feet. They are costly but this is an investment boot more than a casual cheaper version. Manta is a monster - but a kind one!

(Written by: drewthepoo)

An excellent pair of boots! For serious winter larking about on the hills, i will not consider any other boot. The fit is great, they're tough, and have good grip. The're a little thin skinned, but for use in the UK this shouldnt be a problem, as its pretty warm here(!), and they dont have a goretex, or any other kind of liner. Anyone not used to a pair of dedicated 4 season boots, may find them a little heavy, but thats one of the prices you pay (and the other is the price you pay!). They're B2 rated, and work like a dream with a good set of crampons. A great winter boot that will stand up to anything a UK winter can throw at it.

(Written by: BivviBaz)

Ive been saving for a long 3 months for these boots, and i wasnt disapointed. They are alot lighter than i was expecting, and wonderfully comfortable. Best kit ive ever bought!

(Written by: clivenme)

Got the 2009 version in exchange when the 2008 version with the GSB crampon system very rapidly degraded on the sole at the toe (as reported on many blogs and forums). They need very little breaking in, provide excellent support and (particularly important for me!) a design that prevents your toes crunching up in the front when steep descending. Highly recommended.

(Written by: willingdigger)