Weight: 1168g (m), 1008g (w)

Best for: Light and fast transalpine, three-season light mountaineering and approach

Overview

The Vetta Tech blends trekking boot stiffness with approach shoe traction and hiking boot comfort. Gore-Tex uppers combine 1.6mm suede with a textile cuff and tongue, which have an asymmetrical cut. It uses Michelin’s dual compound Offroad sole combined with a dual density Ortholite UltraLite midsole, a firm composite shank and an extended toe rand. 

Performance 

Despite this boot’s approach-shoe qualities of traction and edge stiffness, it has a standard fit with a roomy forefoot. Precise lacing connects to the Heel Lock cord for a secure heel, but it’s fiddly to tension due to the many eyelets. It’s very stiff for its weight, but this balances the light uppers and cushy midsole for sure-footed, energy-efficient walking. Some of that stability comes from the wide heel, which sets this boot apart from typically narrow-heeled trekking boots. But that width is less well-suited to crampons and has less bite in steep dirt or firm snow. The outsole has great traction on rock and hardpack due to low-profile (~4mm) lugs and a high-friction toe, but it’s less reassuring in greasy conditions and has a shorter life. The soft midsole is prone to gouging, but the uppers are reliably durable, with well-placed stitching and generous rands.

What we like

A comfortable fit well suited to wide feet, durable uppers, reasonably priced.

Limitations

Minimal rand protection, medium sole durability.

Why buy the Vetta Tech?

This lighter-than-it-looks mid is a niche boot that will be ideal for some people but a ‘master of none’ for others. It’s most at home on long rock scrambles and approaches without hard snow and will suit users who like a light boot with approach-shoe grip.

Overall Score: 86%