As massive fans of anything and everything remotely related to the Dolomites, it comes as no surprise that La Sportiva are right up there when it comes to our favourite Italian mountaineering brands.
La Sportiva have been manufacturing top quality alpine, climbing and skiing gear for nearly 90 years and the Trango TRK GTX simply continues this theme. A lightweight trekking boot designed for a variety of off-road adventures, the Trango TRK GTX is technical enough to take you scrambling but comfortable enough to use for multi-day hikes no matter the terrain.
As you would expect from an Italian brand, the Trango TRK GTX are immediately impressive out of the box. The combination of modern lines and bright Euro colours indicate their alpine intent, ensuring that you'll fit right in with the Chamonix dudes when strolling around town this summer.
The style may be spot-on but what's more important is how immediately comfortable they were from the off. Technical, alpine-esque boots normally require a hefty breaking-in period but thankfully this is not the case with the Trango TRK GTX.
Whilst they are best suited to those with narrow-to-average feet, the toe box is sufficiently roomy to allow toes to spread and expand when the temperatures accompany you ever upwards. The ankle cuff is soft and unlike many other similar boots, we experienced zero rubbing or chafing in this area which is a massive plus if you don't have the luxury of a long lead up time to break the boots in before heading off on a trip.
Out on the trail they more than delivered. Support without stiffness is the key with the Trango TRK GTX and this is what makes them such an ideal trekking boot. Thanks to the 3D Flex System, the Trango TRK GTX are rigid enough to hold firm on tricky ground yet light and flexible enough to facilitate a natural stride when travelling in more neutral terrain.
The seamless TPU upper is light, comfortable and abrasion-resistant and despite there being no shank in the cushioned dual-density EVA midsole, it still offers enough protection from the trail even when wearing a heavy pack. The breathable/waterproof GORE-TEX liner did a fine job of keeping our feet dry when crossing shallow streams and whilst we haven't tested them in particularly hot temperatures, all indications suggest they'll met the challenge with style.
The Vibram Mulaz sole provides solid grip when needed and should you encounter the odd rocky section along the trail, the smoth 'climbing zone' rubber under the toe will hold firm if you're willing to give it a go.
At 595g and £190, the Trango TRK GTXs are one seriously impressive pair of boots. A high end, technical, versatile lightweight, comfortable and uber stylish product - a proper Italian job.
