I got tired of replacing Salomon 4D GTX boots every 2 years and decided to go back to Scarpa. I have no regrets. These boots are more breathable than the Salomons and far more durable. Also, since the goretex in the Salomons fails in 1-2 years and they can't be waterproofed, the Scarpas are more waterproof than the Salomons if treated correctly (I use Granger's and love it). The fit is similar to the 4d gtx, in that the mid-foot and heel are snug, but there's plenty of toe room. I had only a short, pain-free break in period - a few weeks of wearing them to work and on short hikes - and they keep getting more and more comfortable without breaking down. After 3+ years, the soles and uppers still are in great condition. I've used them for backpacking with heavy packs ... MoreI got tired of replacing Salomon 4D GTX boots every 2 years and decided to go back to Scarpa. I have no regrets. These boots are more breathable than the Salomons and far more durable. Also, since the goretex in the Salomons fails in 1-2 years and they can't be waterproofed, the Scarpas are more waterproof than the Salomons if treated correctly (I use Granger's and love it). The fit is similar to the 4d gtx, in that the mid-foot and heel are snug, but there's plenty of toe room. I had only a short, pain-free break in period - a few weeks of wearing them to work and on short hikes - and they keep getting more and more comfortable without breaking down. After 3+ years, the soles and uppers still are in great condition. I've used them for backpacking with heavy packs (60+ lbs), day hikes, snowshoeing, and some climbing up to class 4 and they've done great across the board. Keep in mind that these are real boots, so you won't get a running shoe fit, but you will get great support and bomber durability. It doesn't matter much to me, but they also look great. If they fit your feet, and you need a boot that will stick with you for years, these are the way to go.

I previously had a pair of scarpa kailash trek gtx boots and was in need of a new pair of boots. I decided to bite the bullet and go down the leather route. The Scarpa SL Active boots sit higher around the ankle than the Kailash (big plus). The sole is super grippy with good toe box space. I typically wear a 44 eu in a normal daily shoe and decided to get the 46 eu for these boots to cater for thicker socks and the ability to do alot of downhill walking without my toes hitting the end. This proved to be a great choice. The boots do not feel too big and I have adequate space.I'd heard that leather boots require some breaking in time. I didn't find this to be the case with these boots. I'd undertaken a few walks around the block in prep for the bush, but these were ... MoreI previously had a pair of scarpa kailash trek gtx boots and was in need of a new pair of boots. I decided to bite the bullet and go down the leather route. The Scarpa SL Active boots sit higher around the ankle than the Kailash (big plus). The sole is super grippy with good toe box space. I typically wear a 44 eu in a normal daily shoe and decided to get the 46 eu for these boots to cater for thicker socks and the ability to do alot of downhill walking without my toes hitting the end. This proved to be a great choice. The boots do not feel too big and I have adequate space.I'd heard that leather boots require some breaking in time. I didn't find this to be the case with these boots. I'd undertaken a few walks around the block in prep for the bush, but these were instantly comfortable. The quality of the boots is second to none, and can see these lasting many many years. Very happy with this purchase!

Almost perfect

I returned these boots, but not because they aren’t extremely comfortable and better-built than most.I wore Scarpa Zanskars for two relentless years, and I moved to the suede Kailash when the Zanskar was discontinued. Although I’ve done significant and lengthy national park, etc., hikes, I more recently turned to the Scarpa boots for work, after I badly sprained an ankle in hiking shoes from a company I consider far lesser than Scarpa.In addition to Scarpa, I’ve worn Vasque, Lowa, Keen, and Oboz over a 25-year period. I started in a Scarpa shoe in 1995, and it was silly to look elsewhere.The SL Activ is a very refined traditional boot. I would recommend them to anyone seeking what they offer: Perfect craftsmanship, custom-like fit, comfort, durability, but no ... MoreI returned these boots, but not because they aren’t extremely comfortable and better-built than most.I wore Scarpa Zanskars for two relentless years, and I moved to the suede Kailash when the Zanskar was discontinued. Although I’ve done significant and lengthy national park, etc., hikes, I more recently turned to the Scarpa boots for work, after I badly sprained an ankle in hiking shoes from a company I consider far lesser than Scarpa.In addition to Scarpa, I’ve worn Vasque, Lowa, Keen, and Oboz over a 25-year period. I started in a Scarpa shoe in 1995, and it was silly to look elsewhere.The SL Activ is a very refined traditional boot. I would recommend them to anyone seeking what they offer: Perfect craftsmanship, custom-like fit, comfort, durability, but no GTX.Anyway, I’m older now, and I’ve decided my needs don’t warrant the brawn of the SL. Otherwise, I’d be writing these comments while wearing these boots! I’m staying with Scarpa, but I’ll be going with less ammunition.

Burly and Beautiful

I bought this in size 15/euro 50. They are definitely stiffer than boots that aren't all leather. For not having any waterproof liner, they are extremely waterproof. I've put them through some seriously wet conditions and have had perfectly dry feet. They're warm for sure but more breathable than I was expecting. I've backpacked maybe 30 miles in them and they're more comfortable each time I put them on. They do require breaking in, and my feet have been pretty sore a couple of times. I think this is the trade-off for the truly stellar build quality. The leather heel liner feels luxurious, the tread is stiff, grippy and super gnarly. The lacing system is also superb. I also love the rubber rand that goes all the way around the boot. These boots will be able to ... MoreI bought this in size 15/euro 50. They are definitely stiffer than boots that aren't all leather. For not having any waterproof liner, they are extremely waterproof. I've put them through some seriously wet conditions and have had perfectly dry feet. They're warm for sure but more breathable than I was expecting. I've backpacked maybe 30 miles in them and they're more comfortable each time I put them on. They do require breaking in, and my feet have been pretty sore a couple of times. I think this is the trade-off for the truly stellar build quality. The leather heel liner feels luxurious, the tread is stiff, grippy and super gnarly. The lacing system is also superb. I also love the rubber rand that goes all the way around the boot. These boots will be able to handle more abuse than any shoe I've owned and they can double as an awesome work boot. I don't consider these boots to be 'heavy' but they aren't light weight. Could be overkill for some types of recreation. But if you're looking for a boot that will last, and really break in to your foot over time, I highly recommend these.

Cash Money

This boot was the only pair i wore for almost w years straight. I also worked all summer in them planting trees. With over 1000km total in these boots between working, hiking, and walking i can happily say they are worth the investment.The paces i put these boots through FAR EXCEED anything most people will ever face and they held up better than my body in most cases. Id have them completely submerged for hours a day, dry them out overnight and be back at it daily and aside from a few nicks and cuts in the outer they never leaked or had damage. I did use sealant along the leather/sole crease to beef up the water protection but not because of leaking, just as precaution. Moderately heavy when wet, but only an issue if the water is inside/pouring over the ankle as i ... MoreThis boot was the only pair i wore for almost w years straight. I also worked all summer in them planting trees. With over 1000km total in these boots between working, hiking, and walking i can happily say they are worth the investment.The paces i put these boots through FAR EXCEED anything most people will ever face and they held up better than my body in most cases. Id have them completely submerged for hours a day, dry them out overnight and be back at it daily and aside from a few nicks and cuts in the outer they never leaked or had damage. I did use sealant along the leather/sole crease to beef up the water protection but not because of leaking, just as precaution. Moderately heavy when wet, but only an issue if the water is inside/pouring over the ankle as i never had any problem with the waterproofness of the boot itself. The break in period is rough but worth it thanks to the durable leather build.***Buy some leather hydrating cream (i used the zanzibar Hydrobloc from MEC) to keep them clean and fresh and these could easily last 5+ years on the right feet.***I have a narrow foot and fairly low arches, with blue superfeet i was comfy in them for 10+ hours no problem but always make sure the fit is proper!ProsDurable+++ (cannot overstate how brutal tree planting is on boots lifespan and i got 2 full years out of them, winter wear every day, summer work every day)ComfortableGreat tractionConsHeavy compared to lots of other boots but they are designed as such

Really nice boots - Reasonably light and no Goretex

This review is before any longer hikes as I was prompted after only a couple weeks of owning them.It's very difficult to find good quality full grain leather boots that DON'T have Goretex (or similar), so I was excited to find a brand that I trust having such an offering. I don't want Goretex as I find it restricts breathability. I'm in Sydney, Australia and my feet get hot easily.The Good:- Although they look big and bulky, they are much lighter than I expected. Noticeably lighter than my Nicks boots. But it doesn't feel like they went cheap on materials. I think most of the weight comes out of the light but firm sole.- Quality feeling full grain leather- Love that there is solid piece of soft leather around the back of the heel.- Stiff sole. I have some ... MoreThis review is before any longer hikes as I was prompted after only a couple weeks of owning them.It's very difficult to find good quality full grain leather boots that DON'T have Goretex (or similar), so I was excited to find a brand that I trust having such an offering. I don't want Goretex as I find it restricts breathability. I'm in Sydney, Australia and my feet get hot easily.The Good:- Although they look big and bulky, they are much lighter than I expected. Noticeably lighter than my Nicks boots. But it doesn't feel like they went cheap on materials. I think most of the weight comes out of the light but firm sole.- Quality feeling full grain leather- Love that there is solid piece of soft leather around the back of the heel.- Stiff sole. I have some cartilage damage in my toes, so really appreciate stiff soles underfoot on harsh terrain to prevent too much flexing.- Sizing is true. I've had several other Scarpa boots/shoes and am size 44 in all of them. I hike with lighter socks, so didn't need to get up a size to accommodate thicker socks. I am normally size US10.5 in trainers and most other shoes.Things I wish were different:- They are pretty heavily insulated, so my feet will still sweat in summer. (I bought these sight unseen, based on reviews from the web). Many people may like this, but for my needs, I wish it was thinner (or no) insulation.- The leather around the heel is very soft and has slight cushion behind it. That means my heel is grabbing the leather more and am getting worse initial blisters during the break in process than hoped. I am highly confident it will break in fine, but it's just taking a bit longer.

Review of Scarpa SL Activ Mens Walking/Trekking Boots

Great boots, still breaking them in but superbly made, comfortable and very waterproof. The Merino wool socks I purchased are a must in my opinion as they add a lovely softness and amazingly do get rid of any sweat.The boots were a recommendation from a friend that walks every day and after 3 years are still in good condition so great value for money as most of my previous boots have fallen apart after a year or so..

Rough Terrain & Heavy Loads

TL/DR: This is a 100+ km break-in boot for me. The payoff is a supremely capable boot for long rocky hikes, backpacking and light scrambling. Comfort, support, stability and grip from a boot that benefits from my personal tweaks: insoles, shorter laces, sock liners (due to my narrow heels), and surgeon?s knots at the hooks (to prevent heel slip). After an ACL replacement and meniscus repair, and subsequent revision, I?ve re-discovered how much ankle support really helps reduce knee strain.Weird fact: I hike more quietly in my Scarpa's than in more flexible day hike boots.My first hike was 15km with a little more than 1,000m of elevation and a 12 kg pack. I only wore one pair of socks and tied them like my wonderfully worn out Raichle?s. Mistake. Turned my heels ... MoreTL/DR: This is a 100+ km break-in boot for me. The payoff is a supremely capable boot for long rocky hikes, backpacking and light scrambling. Comfort, support, stability and grip from a boot that benefits from my personal tweaks: insoles, shorter laces, sock liners (due to my narrow heels), and surgeon?s knots at the hooks (to prevent heel slip). After an ACL replacement and meniscus repair, and subsequent revision, I?ve re-discovered how much ankle support really helps reduce knee strain.Weird fact: I hike more quietly in my Scarpa's than in more flexible day hike boots.My first hike was 15km with a little more than 1,000m of elevation and a 12 kg pack. I only wore one pair of socks and tied them like my wonderfully worn out Raichle?s. Mistake. Turned my heels into hamburger. But I could tell my stride was spot on, my ankles were well supported, my toes were protected, and my achilles was not rubbing on the cuff.Over the next 75 km my Scarpa?s developed a comfortable amount of longitudinal flex while keeping enough torsional stiffness for decent edge hold on Class 4 scrambles. The toe isn?t narrow enough for aggressive climbs but it is the right boot up until you need a Trango or something that will take a C2 crampon. No need to worry about heavy packs, rocky trails, mud and water, or cold weather.Pros: The construction looks to be solid and the overall workmanship is exceptional. The sole works for me, the (95%) rand adds durability, the leather repels water like a duck?s feathers, and they can be resoled. I?m happy on descents: no toe bang and no hot spots (once I figured out the lacing). And there?s no GTX to wear out. The midsoles absorb bumps, pointy rocks and uncomfortable heel strikes. And the Scarpa SL Active?s will handle almost any weather besides extreme heat (no problem for me with normal summer alpine temperatures).Cons: These boots are a bit heavy and a bit stiff. They might be a bit warm in summer, especially if you go for a liner sock. Absolute overkill for a flat trail. If you?re around rocks then you?ll scuff the leather. Don?t forget: the soles are stiff. You?ll probably get some heel lift on your first fitting. (But it will probably be OK if you break in the heel cup and soles, and dial in your socks and lacing.) In other words, they need to be fit properly and [you] need to break them in.Make sure you size appropriately and take the time to break them in (did I already mention that?). Your reward will be an amazingly comfortable, supportive and waterproof pair of boots that will last you many years - as long as you take care of them! (I?m happy so far with routine cleaning and Obenauf?s.) This boot rocks!Note: I ordered a 44 for my US 10.5 foot. I wear a 44.5 for Fizik and Giro cycling shoes. I wear a 27.5 Nordica ski boot. I wear a 10.5 Saucony running shoe, a 10.5 Salomon trail running shoe, and usually a 10.5 dress shoe. I have a "normal" forefoot, a "normal" arch, and a "narrow" heel, whatever that means. I put in SuperFeet green's.

Scarpa Womens SL Activ Leather Walking Boots

Fantastic boots. Really comfy, straight on feet and out for fairly long walk no probs. Living in rural location where daily dog walks are more of a full hike across all sorts of terrain and with this summer always very wet. I have killed off a few pairs of walking boots on my dog walks, but these feel sturdy and up to the job.

Solidly Made

This is my second pair of Scarpas. First pair lasted through three sons' Cub Scout-Boy Scout careers (two of them Eagle Scouts). Solid 10 years of summer camps and other outings before I finally had to retire them. High hopes for this updated pair, which I'd say are tougher built than my other ones (admittedly, they are a different model, but both were Italian made). I've put about 15 miles on this pair and not even close to being broken in, but they'll get there. Happy with this purchase. They fit true to size. I wear 11.5 US in most of my running shoes and hiking shoes and 45 EU is the exact match.