I bought a pair last winter for year round walking and had them fitted, but still now, 9 month later I am unable to wear them for a climb. I have tried zinc oxide tape, white spirits and everything I have had suggested to break them in, but am still unable to use them for any period of time. My partner is really not happy at the waste of money, as it is looking like I will need to buy something else to see me through this winter. If can break them in I may change my mind but 'til now this is my worst purchase ever. I hope that I have to eat my words eventually.

I used to have a pair of Karrimor KSBs which were fantastic boots & lasted me a good couple of seasons in the mountains of Scotland. However as I was using them pretty much every week in all weathers they started to lose their support & waterproofing. Time for a new pair! I'm lucky enough in Glasgow to have a number of outdoor shops with a wide range of boot choice. After a fantastic one hour fitting in Cotswold Outdoor i finally went for the Scarpa SLs. Ive never had a pair of pure leather boots before and was very excited to give them a try! I cant quite remember which mountain these boots were initiated on however I do ...  Read the complete review

I have been using the same pair for 2 years now, and never looked back. Yes a large investment was made, but with the usual Scarpa quality I was happy to make the investment. The boots needed very little breaking in, slightly rigid to start, but you expect this and need this from a 3-4 season, hard wearing boot. Once I had them on for a day they were perfect. They are slightly bulky...for the hung over approach to the ominous peak looming in the bleak morning, (why am I doing this you ask yourself!!). Once on the accent, beit a simply incline, grade 3 scramble or worse, I have apsolute faith in these boots. For winter, they offer soild ...  Read the complete review

I have had my Scarpa SL boots for three years now. (Technically this review is based on a previous version of the boots but should still stand). The pair I bought didn't need breaking in at all - they were comfortable straight out of the box. I've never had blisters (though I think two pairs of good socks helps here.) Of course, feet are individual and these may not suit everyone. Try them in the shop and ask if you can try them around in your house before committing. As they are leather they are fairly waterproof but if you wade around in bogs or water, your feet will get damp eventually. I've looked after them and they have done ...  Read the complete review