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Thanks to Mammut>> and our good friends in O’Sullivan’s Outdoor Store in Killarney, I was asked to trial, test and put through their paces a pair of the Mammut Kento GTX boots in the extremely tough challenging & varied conditions of the wild Kerry mountains.  Here’s my thoughts so far…

Versatility is its middle name: The lever lock and strap-on crampon-compatible Kento High GTX boot is made from what feels like a very high-quality nubuck type leather and includes a waterproof GORE-TEX Membrane. This boot feels super comfy, super tough and still super light and would be in its element tackling any of the mighty Reeks ridges and climbs aswell as further afield such as Scottish classic mountaineering routes and North Wales scrambles and would even feel at home on some mid altitude Alpine treks or Ferratas.

The boots have a lightweight Michelin Alpine Lite sole, which has been specially developed for alpine activities on rock, ice and snow. Initially I was a tad dubious and even slightly cautious of just how much grip these soles possess as I noted they were lacking the normally recommended and accepted “Vibram” type sole but my fears were unfounded as they really do have truly superb grip on all types of wet, slimy, greasy and even slightly vegetated surfaces and rock. Not great on the really greasy stuff though but I’ve yet to come across a boot that is so nothing different here. I’ve climbed with these on very typical Irish wet sloppy rainy days aswell as in deep wet snow  – generally your normal Irish winter/spring weather and my feet have remained warm, dry, comfy and nice’n’snug throughout. I’ve also worn them on a sensational warm sunny day and only complaint here was my feet were baking but that’s my own fault as I really wasn’t expecting the hot sunshine and had worn a thick pair of socks when there was no need and this probably emphasises just how warm these boots truly are, Thinner socks next time!

The Kento High is a lightweight boot (624g @size 8.5) that offers excellent support for those who want to tackle challenging terrain including ridge traverses & ascents, classic scrambles and low to mid grade mountaineering routes.
The Gore-Tex lining is waterproof and highly breathable to help keep the feet dry and comfortable while the memory foam inner sock-liner creates a cooler, drier, more cushioned surround for your foot. The boot is semi-stiff but still flexible enough for stability on angled awkward rough terrain while still providing support for edging and the protective rubber toe rand will protect from scuffs and scrapes.

So far so good with the black rubber surrounding bumper rand. It does look like it could be perceptible to peel as it does seem extremely thin. It will be interesting to see how this fairs out in the long term and whether it begins to peel slightly or disconnect from the main boot body. Hopefully not but time will tell a lot here.
A great option for those who like challenging terrain and a great boot that not only looks the part but IS the perfect companion for the varied challenging Irish weather.

MAMMUT BOOTS AND FOOTWEAR NOW AVAILABLE IN O’SULLIVAN’S OUTDOOR STORE, KILLARNEY>>

Full boot specs & features here :

• Pre-shaped tongue construction
• Hybrid Shell.  Blend of supple inner and tough outer materials for enhanced comfort and good adaptability.
• 2 Zone Lacing: Individual 2-zone lacing. Can be more finely adjusted depending on person and situation.
• Motion Control: Reinforced, flexible inside prevents you from twisting your ankle while maintaining full freedom of movement.
• 3D memo foam
• Raised rubber rand
• C2 Semi automatic / heel lever lock & strap on Crampon compatible.

Follow this link to view Mammut Kento promo vid>>

Follow this link to browse full Mammut boot range>>