La Sportiva Spantiks definitely fill a gap in my footwear arsenal. I use La Sportiva Olympus Mons for absolute warmth up high, but this style of boot doesn't climb vertical like the Spantiks can. So for more technical terrain up to low 8000 meters, the Spantiks are my boot choice. With the full Vibram Montagna sole they excel on rock or ice, and can be made even warmer with a supergaiter or overboot- without compromising climbing performance. I find the Spantik a bit too stiff for long slogs or lengthy approaches (unless mostly on snow) and I think are a little more at home on moderate-to-difficult, steeper terrain. As with all footwear, fit is key. I have a flatter, lower volume foot with a narrow heel.

Weight: 5lb 1oz (2296g) per pair