Our verdict
Modest yet powerful—just might be what the Trango Tech Leather GTX is in a nutshell. As impressive on the mountains as it is on treks, this unassuming B2 boot keeps you in control on extra-rugged terrain, vertical or otherwise. If you have been looking for something in which you can transition from more serious pack adventures to daring ascents, this La Sportiva offering could very well be it.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sticky outsole
- Waterproof
- Sturdy
- Offers sustained comfort
- Supportive rearfoot
Cons
- No pull loops
- Hybrid/Semi-Automatic Crampon Compatible
Who should buy the La Sportiva Trango Tech Leather GTX
Mountain-goers will be happy to find out that the Trango Tech Leather GTX is among the most versatile of La Sportiva’s mountaineering kicks. Case in point, this hybrid piece may be the “it boots” for the following thrill-seekers:
- For those who climb grades III to V. The featured mountaineering boot is ideal for a day of harnessed (roped) climbing up to an overnighter on technical routes. Note that you may need to wear semi-automatic (C2) crampons for steeper pursuits.
- For adventurers who work with their forefoot mostly. Sufficiently randed on the front, the shoe in question gives you both protection and a smearing grip on smooth to semi-rugged rock (think limestone). That said, its sides lack randing, so try not to ascend sideways haphazardly in it—especially around extremely jagged surfaces.
- For those who trek on bouldery terrain. Heavy backpackers will benefit from the Trango Tech Leather GTX, particularly where boulder-climbing is required. The boot’s low-profile sole and climbing zone make such traversals quite possible.
Who should not buy the La Sportiva Trango Tech Leather GTX
The La Sportiva Trango Tech Leather GTX might not be for mountaineers with a wide-foot profile. One owner laments that the toe box section fits really tight. Also, folks looking for a shoe that they could store or keep easily might have to look at other alternatives. To a professional shoe reviewer, not being able to clip the boot to his pack is a missed opportunity.
Boot Grading for Crampons
About a dozen hikers, including a gear pundit, agree that the La Sportiva Trango Tech Leather GTX feels lighter than most mountaineering boots.
It bites the surface well
The semi-rigid outsole of this mountaineering boot, according to many, adheres to rocky surfaces (whether wet or dry) with remarkable tenacity.
No water allowed
Reviewers, including an experienced blogger, find this boot astonishingly watertight.
Strong and mighty
An expert has no complaints about Trango Tech Leather GTX's lasting ability.
Lasting comfiness
Wearing the Trango Tech Leather GTX means ascending vertical routes in extended comfort.
Your ankles are safe
Technical routes and rugged inclines should pose little threat to your ankles in this La Sportiva boot.
Alternatives to the Trango Tech Leather GTX
The following suggestions are all classified as B2 mountaineering boots, which may be characterized as having a middle ground between stiffness and flexibility. They are also mostly compatible with semi-automatic crampons. Now on to the list:
Price-wise (within a 100-dollar price range of the featured boot):
- La Sportiva Glacier WLF
- La Sportivas mountaineering kicks
- Track and field
Backpacking-friendly:
Lined with Gore-Tex (waterproof):
- La Sportiva Trango Tech GTX
- Track and field
- Your ankles are safe
