La Sportiva Baruntse vs. Spantik Mountaineering Boots
Mountaineering boots are an essential piece of equipment for anyone who ventures into high-altitude terrain, whether it be for climbing, trekking, or general outdoor activities. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to choose the right pair of boots that will provide both comfort and functionality.
In this article, I will be comparing two popular mountaineering boots: La Sportiva Baruntse and Spantik. Both are well-regarded for their performance in extreme conditions, but each has its unique features and drawbacks. By providing an in-depth comparison of these two boots, I hope to help you make an informed decision when it comes to selecting the right pair of mountaineering boots for your next adventure.
La Sportiva Baruntse
Footwear Height: Over-the-ankle
Footwear Closure: Lace-up
Upper: Cordura nylon
Midsole: Thermoplastic urethane
Outsole: Vibram rubber
Weight (Pair): 5 lbs. 9.3 oz.
La Sportiva Baruntse is a popular mountaineering boot designed for high-altitude climbing in freezing temperatures. It is a reliable option for those looking for a long-lasting and comfortable pair of boots that can withstand harsh weather conditions. The synthetic and Cordura upper of the Baruntse provides excellent insulation, durability, and water resistance. The boot also has a removable inner boot that provides additional insulation to keep your feet warm.
The compatibility of the La Sportiva Baruntse with automatic crampons is one of its significant advantages, making it a versatile choice for mountaineers who may need to switch between different types of crampons. In addition, the boot has a sturdy and supportive sole that provides excellent stability on uneven terrain.
However, La Sportiva Baruntse has some drawbacks. One of the most common complaints about the boot is that it is quite heavy. It weighs around 5 pounds per pair. Some climbers may find this extra weight bothersome, especially if they are carrying a heavy backpack. Furthermore, the Baruntse can be quite stiff, which can be unpleasant for some people, particularly during long approaches.
Another potential issue is that the synthetic and Cordura upper may not be as breathable as other materials. This can cause your feet to become hot and sweaty, which can be uncomfortable, especially in hot weather. Overall, the La Sportiva Baruntse is an excellent choice for those looking for a dependable and long-lasting pair of boots for extreme cold weather, but the weight and stiffness may not be suitable for everyone.
What I like: Warm, durable, and great for winters
What I don’t: Heavy and the upper is less breathable
La Sportiva Spantik
Footwear Height: Over-the-ankle
Footwear Closure: SpeedLace
Upper: PU-Tech
Midsole: TPU, dual-density EVA
Outsole: Vibram Montagna
Weight (Pair): 5 lbs. 4 oz.
La Sportiva Spantik is a popular mountaineering boot designed for high-altitude climbing in extremely cold conditions. It is a lighter and more technical boot than the La Sportiva Baruntse, making it a great choice for climbers who want to move fast and light without sacrificing warmth and protection.
One of Spantik’s main advantages is its unique lacing system, which allows for a more precise fit. It also has a removable footbed that can be replaced with a custom-molded footbed to provide additional comfort and support. This makes it an excellent choice for climbers seeking a more personalized fit.
The Spantik is also compatible with automatic crampons, making it a versatile option for mountaineers who may need to switch between crampon types. It’s also an excellent choice for ice climbing, thanks to its stiff sole, which provides excellent stability on uneven terrain.
However, La Sportiva Spantik has some drawbacks. One of the main criticisms leveled at the boot is its lack of durability. The Spantik is a more technical mountaineering boot with a thinner upper that may not be as durable as other mountaineering boots. This can be a problem for climbers who frequently encounter rough terrain and require a boot that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
The lacing system, which can be difficult to adjust in cold weather, is another potential issue. The Spantik is also not as warm as the Baruntse, which may be an issue for climbers who plan to spend extended periods in extremely cold weather.
Overall, the La Sportiva Spantik is an excellent choice for climbers who prioritize a lightweight and technical design, but the durability and warmth may not be suitable for everyone.
What I like: Easy to lace, warm enough for most 6000m peaks
What I don’t: Average durability, the heel cup may be large for an average female
Conclusion
La Sportiva Baruntse and La Sportiva Spantik are both popular mountaineering boots, designed for extreme high-altitude climbing. While both boots have their unique features, they also have several differences that make them suited to different types of climbers and mountaineering activities.
One of the most significant differences between the two boots is their weight. The Spantik is noticeably lighter than the Baruntse, weighing in at around 5 pounds per pair. This makes it a more suitable choice for climbers who want to move fast and light, without sacrificing warmth and protection.
The Spantik also has a more technical design, with a unique lacing system that allows for a more precise fit. It also features a removable footbed, which can be replaced with a custom-molded footbed for added comfort and support. This makes it a good choice for climbers who are looking for a more customizable fit.
On the other hand, the Baruntse is a more durable boot, with a sturdy Cordura and synthetic upper that provides excellent insulation and water resistance. It is also compatible with automatic crampons, making it a versatile choice for climbers who may need to switch between different types of crampons.
Both boots have their downsides. The Baruntse can be quite heavy and stiff, which may not be suitable for some climbers, especially those who prefer a lighter and more flexible boot. The Spantik, on the other hand, may not be as durable as the Baruntse, and the lacing system can be difficult to adjust in cold weather.
Ultimately, the choice between the two boots will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a climber. The Baruntse is a reliable and durable choice for extreme cold conditions, while the Spantik is a more technical and lightweight boot that offers a more customizable fit.
