La Sportiva Karakorum HC GTX review

Who should buy the La Sportiva Karakorum HC GTX

Highly admired for its robust construction, the La Sportiva Karakorum HC GTX is one of the best in its class. It is a solid option if you:

• Prefer a mountaineering boot that offers superior protection from water and external moisture. 
• Prefer a mountaineering boot that provides reliable cushioning and support to the foot. 
• Prefer a mountaineering boot that performs well on uphill and downhill paths.

Excellent stopping ability

The Impact Brake System (IBS) of Vibram has lugs arranged in such a way that they increase the boot’s “break” or stopping ability by 20%. This is an important quality necessary for a mountaineering boot because traversing uphill or downhill paths can be totally difficult and dangerous.

Excellent traction

The IBS sole absorbs negative impact from the ground and increases traction, regardless of the type of terrain.

Comfortable cushioning

For this model, La Sportiva combined EVA and Polyurethane (PU) - two of the most common cushioning materials used in hiking shoes and boots. PU is known for being highly resilient, which means it doesn’t tend to compress or flatten over time. 

Shock-absorbing cushioning

EVA, on the other hand, is lightweight, soft, and has low-density which has the ability to absorb impact. Together, they make a long-wearing, cushiony, and supportive midsole.

Waterproof

Like its predecessor, the Karakorum HC GTX has an upper made of 2.8 mm Idro-Perwanger leather which has really good waterproof characteristics even in extreme conditions. But it has a much nicer color - the mocha forest 2019. 

Excellent ankle support

Like the Nepal models, this boot also features multi-directional 3D flex hinges for maximum ankle support. Inside the boot is a Gore-tex lining meant to keep the foot dry. 

Robust lacing system

Lastly, the boot comes with a robust lacing system that lets you adjust the fit around the ankle separately from the foot. It’s compatible with heel crampons, ready to take on challenging paths even in freezing temps.