UKH

Huge discounts on mountaineering boots from The North Face and Scarpa at outside.co.uk

Read more at http://www.ukclimbing.com/gear/news.php?id=7218

In reply to UKC Gear:

How does the 'S6k Extreme' stack up against the Scarpa 6,000?

In reply to steveej:

Hi Steve,
We feel that they're very similar boots in terms of where you'd use them. The main differences are in fit - The TNF Verto S6K is slightly narrower at the front yet broader in the heel than the Scapa Phantom 6000. Anecdotal evidence suggests that the Scarpa is a touch warmer, although this may be down to the extra space in the front of the boot.

Other differences - the Verto inner boot is more durable (it has some sole on it) and better for slumming it around the tent. You'll also get a more precise fit as the inner is laced (Scarpa just fastens with velcro). The Inner boot is gripped quite firmly by the outer, so you may find you need to put the boot on "as one", whereas with the Phantom you can put the inners on first, then put them into the outer.

We like the way the zip on the gaiter wraps diagonally around the boot - this gives you a wider opening to get your foot into and minimises flexing across the zip itself. This is a design feature that Scarpa will be putting into the next version of the 6000 (but don't hold your breath for them http://www.outside.co.uk/latest/news/Sneak-Peek-at-the-2016-Scarpa-Phantom )

Ultimately, get the ones that fit the best. But then you knew that already!

I own a pair of S6K. And would not buy those boots again.

Main issues is that they are not very durable. Hit from a crampons is very likely to make a hole in upper. I used those for two seasons and they look very worn out. Waterproof protection lasted about 3 months before failing. After that it would work hi in the mountain, but crossing a stream would get my feet wet. Later I got a rip from a fall. I was able to get it sewn and glued, but that's a lot of hassle.

On bright side boots are light and convenient. No breaking in needed.