Built with a good deal more heft than your average three season hill walking boots, the burly and stiff characteristics push the Scarpa SL Active boots into four season territory (B1) making them suitable for UK winter walks and overseas treks. The outer is built with Scarpa’s thickest and toughest leather which has been impregnated and has minimal stitching so is still largely waterproof despite not having a liner. Cocona on the inside and a soft leather heel section prove both durable and comfortable in what is otherwise an uncompromisingly stiff and heavy boot at 1918g per pair in a size 46. This weight can feel cumbersome but with regular use you get used to it. Foot hold is firm, especially across the midfoot and up front you get a fairly narrow toe box, with just enough wiggle room for comfort. You can dial in the fit thanks to lacing to the toes, although you’ll be fighting against the thickness of leather when you cinch up the laces. These boots need serious breaking in and we would recommend you do this along relatively gentle paths before taking on hikes in the hills.
If good old-fashioned bombproof leather boots that last forever are your thing and you can deal with the associated weight and stiffness then the SL Actives are a solid option. Excellent build quality but we just didn't love them enough to rate them highly.
