2017’s best four-season boots

A four season boot needs to perform in a range of challenging conditions while still remaining comfortable. The fit is the most critical aspect in achieving this, but there are several other features to consider.

Fit
You need wriggle room to ensure blood flow – which will combat frostnip. The heel needs to be snug and secure. Pressure points won’t go away with use, so if you feel any, try a different size or model.

Stiffness
The shank is commonly made from nylon, fibreglass or Kevlar and has little or no flex over both the length and width of the boot. This provides a stable platform in rugged terrain and while climbing, but can mean less comfort on flat terrain.

Rand
A full rand running around the base of the upper helps protect the boot from scree and moraine.

Warmth
This is dictated by the upper and insulation of the boot. A fully waterproof membrane (along with high-quality gaiters and socks) will help deal with prolonged periods in snow.

Uppers
Some boots have one-piece leather uppers but there are also multi-panel synthetic/leather options which work just as well. Consider the thickness of the upper – it should be between 2-3mm.

Crampon compatibility
If the boot flexes lengthways or sideways, a flexible crampon with straps front and back should be used. Technical boots sometimes have a welt at the front for crampons with front and back clips.

Now you know what to look for, it’s time to choose a boot…

Lowa Weisshorn GTX $999
Use Alpine Upper Split leather, Cordura and microfibre Construction Gore-Tex with Duratherm lining, removable tongue, I-Lock lace lock, ball bearing lace system, Flex Fit Synchro ankle, high wall full surround rand, insulated aluminium coated with fleece insole, PU midsole, 6-8mm full length nylon shank with I-Core carbon weave reinforcing, automatic crampon compatible Outsole Vibram Dolent Weight 1950g. www.lowa.co.nz

Lowa Cevedale GTX $799 Use Alpine Upper Split leather and Cordura Construction Gore-Tex lining, I-Lock lace lock, ball bearing lace system, Flex Fit Synchro ankle, Lowa Flex and lace-to-toe for instep flex, heel and toe rand, viscoelastic Balance Insole, PU midsole, 5.5mm full length nylon shank, semi-automatic crampon compatible Outsole Vibram Dolent Weight 1600g. www.lowa.co.nz

Fitwell Sirius Winter $595
Use Winter mountaineering Upper Suede leather with Kevlar effect reinforcement Construction eVent lining, PrimaLoft insulation, full protective rand, removable microfibre footbed with antibacterial fabric, lace-locking eyelets, perforated PE insole, nylon and glass fibre shank, dual density EVA midsole Outsole Vibram Teton, fully automatic crampon compatible Weight 1880g. sales@splitn2.com

Asolo Aconcagua GV $590
Use Alpine trekking Upper 2.4mm water-resistant Perwanger leather Construction Gore-Tex Performance lining, Asoflex Ascent board lasted, injected moulded insole, micro pulley lacing, fully automatic crampon compatible, made in EU. Outsole Vibram Vertige Weight 1980g. office@oms.co.nz