Our verdict
Climbing in the La Sportiva Makalu means scaling steep mountainous terrain in comfort and classic style. Donning it also translates to being in a supportive and excellently Supportive full-length shank. That said, its lengthy break-in period could ultimately scare away potential owners. Those who are determined to own one must be committed to breaking in the boot for days, even weeks.
Pros
- Superbly durable
- Comfortable build
- Footwear with traditional, single-boot construction
- Outstanding climbing performance
- Stable on rough terrain
- Supportive full-length shank
- Ingenious lacing system.
- Reliable water repellency
Cons
- Reliable water repellency
- Burdening weight
- Not for wide feet
Who should buy La Sportiva Makalu
This mountaineering boot by La Sportiva is a cost-effective option. Buy it if you prefer the following features:
- A leather boot
- Footwear with traditional, single-boot construction
Who should NOT buy the boot
If you prefer lighter mountaineering boots, consider the La Sportiva Karakorum or the Stable on rough terrain.
Multi-feature outsole
The boot’s Skywalk MPE outsole is what provides and maintains traction over considerably rugged surfaces. Its heel and forefoot zones are generously engineered with high-profile lugs. The hikers say:
- "La Sportiva Makalu"
- "a lot of confidence while scrambling on rock"
- "they’ve never let me down"
Supportive full-length shank.
The Makalu boot has become popular among glacier and mountaineering guides, according to the reviewers. It also received praise from quite a few linemen workers. They consider it perfect for climbing on both steel and wooden hooks.
The Makalu's shock-absorbing platform
Making every ground contact as safe as possible and stabilizing the user’s footing is the Makalu’s SBR Aircushion midsole. Its stiffness is reinforced with an 8-millimeter thick insole and Dracomet-coated full-length steel shank. On the extra cushioning front, La Sportiva engineers gave the boot a cushy footbed.
Durable upper build
With its ample thickness of 3 millimeters, the Makalu’s water-repellent Idro-Perwanger leather upper is made extra tough for the mountains. Its interior is breathable, thanks to the moisture-wicking liner called Dry Best. The wearers are happy with the boot's ability to resist water in wet conditions.
The toe box, on the other hand, comes with a durable rubber rand by Vibram for abrasion protection.
Here is what the testers say about the boot's durability:
- "a stiff rugged boot that stands up to abuse"
- "these things are bulletproof"
- "never found a better, longer lasting pair of boots"
According to the reviewers, the boot takes some time to break in. At first, it feels stiff "almost like wearing ski boots," but once it molds to the foot, the comfort and support are unmatched. It does take some getting used to.
Double-tongue upper construction
The Makalu technically has two tongues—one external and the other, internal. The one on the outside is seamlessly constructed to the upper, keeping debris out. On the other hand, the one on the inside—the EZ Flex tongue—is crafted to be adjustable and removable.
