Our verdict
People who are in search of a mountaineering boot that doesn’t disappoint when it comes to climbing performance may look no further as Salewa’s Rapace GTX more than fits the bill. It is also a footgear with surprising lightness and amazing flexibility.
Pros
- Superior lightness
- Amazing flexibility
- No break-in period
- Stiff crampon compatible midsole
- Impressive sturdiness
- Stiff crampon compatible midsole
- Excellent ankle support
Cons
- a well-constructed yet light boot, perfect for alpine climbing and trekking
- updated Mar 9, 2023
Comfortable ankle collar
The Salewa Rapace GTX is a mountaineering boot that is undeniably packed with features from top to bottom. Consider getting this pair if you seek:
- a well-constructed yet light boot, perfect for alpine climbing and trekking
- durable footwear, providing superior traction and secure grip on different types of terrain
- a perfect all-rounder that will perform well under any weather conditions
Updates to Salewa Rapace GTX
- The crampon connection at the base of the heel is more streamlined and less conspicuous design-wise compared with the previous version.
- The Vibram outsole's aggressive lugs are more angular than the last, and the multi-directional protrusions at the center have doubled.
Salewa Rapace GTX
With Vibram’s Wrapping Thread Combi (WTC) outsole, wearers have said that the grip works over different types of terrain. It has aggressive treads that marry quality traction with clever engineering, one that allows a natural ground feel with every step.
The lugs found at the end of the forefoot zone are positioned in such a way that aids wearers during climbs where precise forefoot placements are required.
Aside from providing traction, this Vibram outsole also reinforces the tip of the forefoot by extending slightly towards the upper. This rubber tip minimizes shock when step-kicking on hard surfaces.
Salewa's premium cushioning
The Rapace GTX’s midsole is charged with Salewa’s Bilight technology. It is mostly made of TPU, making it resistant to compression, impacts, and abrasions. This midsole also has a stiff part made with a combination of nylon and 27% fiberglass. It dampens shock with its extra thick heel zone and highly contoured arch.
Removable and adjustable footbed
On top of the cushioning primarily provided by the midsole unit, there is also the boot’s default insole — the Multi-Fit Footbed Plus (MFF+). It has two yellow layers that are interchangeable, allowing the boot to accommodate different widths.
Stiff crampon compatible midsole
Toe-offs are also assisted and more convenient due to the midsole’s tapered construction. On the back of the midsole’s heel is a groove called a crampon connection which makes the Rapace GTX compatible with C2—semi-automatic crampons.
Durable protective upper in the Salewa Rapace GTX
The Salewa Rapace GTX has a 1.8 mm nubuck leather upper covered with wear-resistant fabric and a durable synthetic overlay. The 360-degree protection from abrasive elements is made possible by the rubber rand that runs across and around the upper’s base.
The interior is both breathable and waterproof, thanks to the Gore-Tex Performance Comfort liner.
Comfortable ankle collar
While the lower part of the upper heel is hardy and supportive, the upper area is flexible, allowing wearers to perform maneuvers with as much ankle freedom as possible.
Secure fit with Y-shaped cable
The laces that give users a secure fit and personalized lockdown are made up of synthetic threads entwined together for durability. The Y-shaped cable hugging the upper’s heel is made of a wire-like material. This cable, as more pressure is applied on the laces, constricts the heel zone, and, as a result, gives the boot extra ankle and heel support.
