Our verdict

As soon as we feel those first gusts of cold northern wind, we know it's time for the Mistral GTX from Scarpa. We promise that this waterproof boot will help you stay consistent with your daily hikes in the cold season. Drizzle or downpour, the Mistral GTX will not only keep your feet warm and dry but also stable and surefooted on wet and unpredictable ground. Sadly, there is a comprise in the weight department but at least this boot didn't require a break-in period before our first backcountry adventure!

Pros

  • Top-notch waterproofing
  • Little-to-no break-in period
  • Excellent stability and ankle support
  • Superb grip on varied terrain
  • Wear-resistant and durable build
  • Cushioned for all-day hikes
  • Barely affected by low temperatures

Cons

  • Heavier than average
  • Not for wide feet

Audience verdict

90
Great!

Who should buy

The Mistral GTX is a solid hiking boot to consider if you are on the market for:

  • a highly durable boot for medium-distance day hikes on mixed terrain
  • a boot with premium Gore-Tex waterproofing for the cold and wet season
  • a sturdy boot that doesn't require a break-in period and feels comfortable from the box
  • a very stable boot with strong ankle support

Scarpa Mistral GTX review

Who should NOT buy

The Mistral GTX excels in every essential quality of a hiking boot but it does so with a few extra ounces. Several equally strong boots can provide the same experience with a much lower weight (and price!) including the Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX and the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX.

We also think that people with wider feet will appreciate a more relaxed toebox space of the KEEN Targhee III Waterproof Mid or the Merrell Moab 3 Mid GTX.

Scarpa Mistral GTX lab test

Cushioning

Heel stack

We found that the Mistral GTX has adequate cushioning for a day hiking boot — nothing to write home about and nothing to complain about.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Heel stack

Measuring its heel stack (insole and outsole included), our caliper showed 34.6 mm. That is an average platform thickness for a hiking boot but it's enough to offer impact protection and isolate the foot from the trail debris.

Test results
Mistral GTX 34.6 mm
Average 36.4 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
26.2 mm
Heel stack
46.9 mm

Forefoot stack

We also found the boot's forefoot stack slightly thinner than average at 18.8 mm.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Forefoot stack

In our wear tests, we felt that this kind of sole thickness strikes a fine balance between protection and flexibility.

Test results
Mistral GTX 18.8 mm
Average 22.4 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
17.0 mm
Forefoot stack
30.7 mm

Drop

There is a pretty tangible heel-to-toe drop in the Scarpa Mistral GTX. The difference in our stack height measurements showed 15.8 mm which is on the taller side of the hiking boot spectrum.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Drop

Unless you are a proponent of low-drop or barefoot hiking footwear, we don't think you will have any trouble with this Scarpa boot. The elevated heel helps to take the pressure off the Achilles, especially when you are carrying a backpack.

Test results
Mistral GTX 15.8 mm
Average 14.0 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
2.6 mm
Drop
20.9 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The Mistral GTX is far from the plush type. But its midsole cushioning has a touch of softness to provide essential comfort and cushioning.

Pressing a Shore A durometer against the boot's primary foam, we got a reading of 24.8 HA. Compared to other hiking boots, this is a middle-of-the-road type of softness.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Midsole softness

But please note that the boot feels notably firmer than this static number suggests because of the full-length TPU shank and the firm rubber outsole.

Test results
Mistral GTX 24.8 HA
Average 27.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
15.4 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
53.3 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

Gladly, the Mistral GTX doesn't get much firmer in low temperatures.

In an attempt to recreate cold weather, we kept the boot in the freezer for 20 minutes.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Difference in midsole softness in cold

Repeating the durometer measurement after that, we found that the foam got only 11.6% firmer.

Test results
Mistral GTX 12%
Average 18%
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Insole thickness

A well-padded insole creates a fine buffer between the boot's stiff platform and the foot.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Insole thickness

Our caliper measurement showed 5.3 mm of thickness in the heel which is standard for a hiking boot.

Test results
Mistral GTX 5.3 mm
Average 6.1 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
3.7 mm
Insole thickness
10.7 mm

Size and fit

Size

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Toebox width - widest part

As for the boot's fit, we found that the Mistral GTX offers a reasonable amount of toebox space for a D medium width.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Toebox width at the widest part

Our caliper recorded 103.1 mm in the widest part of the boot's forefoot which is a standard measurement for our lab-tested hiking boots.

Scarpa Mistral GTX fit

Test results
Mistral GTX 103.1 mm
Average 101.9 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
95.5 mm
Toebox width - widest part
110.2 mm

Toebox width - big toe

The Mistral GTX tapers slightly towards the toes showing 75.6 mm on our caliper. A couple of millimeters below the average but nothing to be alarmed about.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Mistral GTX 75.6 mm
Average 78.3 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
67.6 mm
Toebox width - big toe
91.1 mm

Laces

The Mistral GTX uses strong round laces that are of adequate length and stay tied throughout the hike.

Scarpa Mistral GTX laces

The collar features three pairs of lace hoops for a quicker and easier on-and-of action.

Break-in

One of the best things about this Scarpa boot is that it feels very comfortable straight from the box and doesn't require a considerable break-in period.

Going on a long walk the first time we wore the Mistral GTX, we got no blisters or hot spots whatsoever.

Stability

Lateral stability test

Stability and side-to-side containment are some of the primary reasons to get the Scarpa Mistral GTX. The boot vanished all of our concerns on hilly terrain!

From the ground up, it is built with surefootedness in mind - the cradle-shaped midsole, the full-length TPU shank, the stiff suede upper, and the over-the-ankle collar - all work together to prevent undue foot shifting and wobbling.

Scarpa Mistral GTX medial side

Torsional rigidity

High torsional rigidity is one of the primary characteristics of a stable hiking boot. That's why we twist each model with our hands to assess the stiffness of its construction - the harder it is to twist the boot, the less likely your foot is to buckle in it.

Looking at the video above, you can see why we rated the Mistral's rigidity with the highest score for torsional rigidity.

Test results
Mistral GTX 5
Average 4.3
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

A stiff heel counter is another important contributor to the boot's stability and the Scarpa Mistral GTX nails it!

Our heels and ankles clicked with the rear part of the boot and remained securely locked ever since.

Giving the boot's heel counter a push and squeeze in our manual test, we rated its stiffness with a high score of 4 out of 5. We believe that this level of stiffness is just right for a less technical day hiking boot.

Test results
Mistral GTX 4
Average 3.6
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

To our surprise, this Scarpa boot provides a very stable experience without a particularly wide platform.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Midsole width in the forefoot

Measuring its widest area with a caliper, we recorded 105.4 mm which is 6 mm narrower than the average! And yet, that didn't seem to affect our solid footing at all.

Test results
Mistral GTX 105.4 mm
Average 111.8 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
96.3 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
124.6 mm

Midsole width - heel

In the widest part of the heel, the Mistral GTX also returned a few millimeters less than the average but it's not enough to be critical. At 84.0 mm, it is about 3.5 mm narrower than most boots.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Midsole width in the heel

Considering the boot's already hefty weight, it makes sense to shave off the bulk wherever possible.

Test results
Mistral GTX 84.0 mm
Average 87.4 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
71.7 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.1 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

With a rigid TPU shank running through the boot's entire midsole and a stiff suede upper on top, we didn't expect the Scarpa Mistral GTX to bend so easily.

In fact, it turned out to be even stiffer than the average hiking boot in our flexibility test.

We used a gauge to measure how much force it would take to bend this Scarpa boot to a 90-degree angle. At 48.5N, the Mistral GTX required 10% more force than the average boot.

Whether this is good or bad depends on your personal preference. Sure, it lacks the coziness of Hoka boots but it does feel nice and structured.

Test results
Mistral GTX 48.5N
Average 44.0N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
16.6N
Stiffness
84.7N

Stiffness in cold (%)

If you are getting the Mistral GTX for low temperatures, do take into account that there is going to be a slight increase in stiffness.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Difference in stiffness in cold

After 20 minutes in the freezer, the boot needed 11.7% more force to bend to a 90-degree angle.

Test results
Mistral GTX 12%
Average 24%
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
0%
Stiffness in cold
100%

Weight

At first glance, you could probably guess that the Scarpa Mistral GTX is a heavier boot. It is just as sturdy and heavy-set as its counterparts from the same brand.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Weight

Tipping the scale at 21.0 oz (594g) in a men's US size 9, it is notably heavier than the average hiking boot (by a good 2.5 oz!).

Scarpa Mistral GTX boot weight

But compared to similarly-built Scarpa boots, it is only slightly heavier than the Rush TRK GTX (20 oz/567g), the Terra GTX (20.3 oz/575g), and the Boreas GTX (20.6 oz/583g).

Test results
Mistral GTX 20.95 oz (594g)
Average 18.91 oz (536g)
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
11.71 oz (332g)
Weight
28.29 oz (802g)

Breathability

We found the Scarpa Mistral GTX to be perfect for winter and cold months in general. Its well-padded interiors, high-cut collar, and waterproof membrane wrap the foot in a warm, almost airtight hug.

How airtight? You can see it in our breathability lab test above. As we filled the boot's upper with smoke, the upper had no pores to let the smoke pass through! Not a single streak.

Scarpa Mistral GTX microscope test

The boot's toebox is made of solid suede that doesn't have any perforations either.

Scarpa Mistral GTX toebox suede under microscope

Thus, we confidently gave this Scarpa boot the lowest breathability score - 1 out of 5.

Test results
Mistral GTX 1
Average 1.5
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Waterproofing

Two components are responsible for the Mistral's waterproofing capacity - water-resistant suede on the outside and waterproof Gore-Tex membrane on the inside.

Scarpa Mistral GTX waterproofing

Having thoroughly inspected this Scarpa boot, we can confirm it is ready for some seriously wet conditions. Deep puddles, creeks, bogs, slush, snow, and downpours - the Mistral GTX is the right tool for the job.

Durability

Toebox durability

Because of Scarpa's stellar reputation in the durability department, our expectations were set high for the Mistral GTX. And they were met!

We ruthlessly drilled the boot's suede toebox with sandpaper for 12 seconds. The speed of the Dremel was set to 5K RPM and the pressure remained consistent at 3.2N. It is also important to note that we perform this test on the same spot on all hiking boots for consistency. And Scarpa chose to reinforce this area with an extra layer of suede in the Mistral GTX for a good reason.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Toebox durability comparison

In the comparison photo above, it seems like we barely even touched the Scarpa boot! Its suede material is immensely wear-resistant. We gave it the highest toebox durability score in a heartbeat!

Scarpa Mistral GTX toebox

With a toe rand so large and sturdy, the Mistral GTX is surely not afraid of wading through sharp bushes or slashing against rocky ridges.

Test results
Mistral GTX 5
Average 4.3
Compared to 27 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

However, the inner lining of this Scarpa boot proved to be less ready or the wear-and-tear.

Only 4 seconds of sandpaper drilling were enough to blow through the collar mesh. Considering that hiking boots on average get a higher score for heel padding durability (4 out of 5), the Mistral GTX could do better with only 2 out of 5.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Heel padding durability comparison

Test results
Mistral GTX 2
Average 3.9
Compared to 27 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

On the other hand, the boot's Vibram outsole proved to be highly robust.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Outsole hardness

Using a Shore C durometer, we recorded the boot's rubber hardness at 88.0 HC which is on par with the industry average.

Test results
Mistral GTX 88.0 HC
Average 87.5 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
81.0 HC
Outsole hardness
92.1 HC

Outsole durability

But hardness is not always a guarantee of durability and that's why each durometer test is followed by a demanding Dremel drill.

Considering that rubber is much tougher than the upper materials, we raise the bar by upping the speed to 10K RPM and extending the drilling time to 22 seconds.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Outsole durability test

But stricter conditions didn't change the fact that the Mistral's rubber outsole is ready for use and abuse! Our tread gauge showed that the dent created by the Dremel was only 0.8 mm deep. That's a solid result for a hiking boot!

Test results
Mistral GTX 0.8 mm
Average 0.8 mm
Compared to 24 hiking boots
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

The Scarpa Mistral GTX doesn't skimp on outsole thickness either. Our caliper measurement showed 3.0 mm which is standard for hiking boots.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Outsole thickness

To sum it up, all three tests confirmed that this Scarpa boot's rubber outsole lives up to the industry standards in its hardness, abrasion resistance, and thickness. Thus, we expect it to last just as long as the average boot.

Scarpa Mistral GTX outsole longevity

Test results
Mistral GTX 3.0 mm
Average 3.0 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
1.8 mm
Outsole thickness
5.6 mm

Misc

Lug depth

Boots from Scarpa never disappoint when it comes to grippy lugs. The company is a true expert in climbing and mountaineering footwear after all!

Checking the lug depth on the Mistral GTX, our caliper showed 5.0 mm. This is deeper than the average and makes the boot suitable for more technical terrain.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Lug depth

But it's not just the tread depth that makes the bite of this Scarpa boot so aggressive, their strategic positioning and shape also play an important role.

Scarpa Mistral GTX tread pattern

The frontmost area features sharp razor-blade lugs for maximum grip on the ascent propulsion. Similar lugs are found in the heel to help with braking on the descent. The spaced out treads in the forefoot help to trudge through soft terrain more effectively too.

The boot's hee brake also helps to maximize stopping power when hiking downhill.

Scarpa Mistral GTX heel brake

We are confident that the Scarpa Mistral GTX can handle a wide variety of terrain without hesitation. Boulders, rooty trails, mossy logs, creeks, and bog-like patches - you name it!

Test results
Mistral GTX 5.0 mm
Average 4.2 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
3.0 mm
Lug depth
5.8 mm

Reflective elements

There are no reflective elements on this Scarpa boot.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Reflective elements
Test results
Mistral GTX No

Tongue padding

The boot's well-padded tongue contributed to the comfort we experienced in the Mistral GTX.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Tongue padding

With a thickness of 13.4 mm, it is even slightly foamier than average.

Test results
Mistral GTX 13.4 mm
Average 11.0 mm
Compared to 31 hiking boots
Number of shoes
5.9 mm
Tongue padding
22.3 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The Mistral GTX maximizes its waterproofing capacity with the help of a fully integrated tongue. The gussets extend up nearly matching the entire height of the boot's collar.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Tongue: gusset type

This feature allows you to worry less about deep puddles and creeks on your way. Just make sure that the water doesn't reach the non-gusseted part. Because if it seeps inside the boot, the interiors will remain damp for the rest of the hike.

Test results
Mistral GTX Both sides (full)

Heel tab

Even without finger loops and pull tabs, we found it easy to get this Scarpa boot on and off. Its collar opened up wide enough and the lace hoops helped to deal with laces faster.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Heel tab
Test results
Mistral GTX None

Removable insole

You have the option to replace the boot's insole with an aftermarket one if you need more arch support or cushioning.

Scarpa Mistral GTX Removable insole
Test results
Mistral GTX Yes