Go hybrid: A lot of people wear plastics on Rainier but unless you’re making a winter climb I think that’s overkill. Better are the newer generation of plastic/leather hybrids, or leather boots. More comfort, good weather protection, excellent hiking and climbing performance.

A good example of that is the Asolo Expert GV ($300). It has uppers made from waterproof leather and tough synthetic fabric; a Gore-Tex liner; a supportive but flexible midsole and complete crampon compatibility. They’ll feel good on the lower half of the mountain, with enough warmth and climbing performance for the top half.

I also like the La Sportiva Karakorams ($270). These are a bit more traditional, with uppers made from 2.8mm Perwanger leather, which is tough and waterproof. Rubber toe bumpers protect your feet, and snug cuffs keep Rainier’s nasty scree out of the boot tops. And they’ll take most crampons out there.

My third recommendation is the Scarpa Charmoz GTX ($290). These are all-synthetic, with uppers of nylon and synthetic nylon. That helps make them exceptionally light (just over 3 pounds), and they’ll dry fast when melting snow wets them a bit. They have a Gore-Tex liner and Vibram soles. An excellent mixed-terrain boot that won’t even require much break-in.

via Bellingham Herald