Trail Shoes and mountain boots

SCARPA trail shoes and mountain boots are designed to support a wide range of activities across natural paths and more demanding routes. The collection includes low-cut, mid-cut and more structured footwear, developed to meet different needs in terms of support, durability and terrain. Whether for hiking, trekking, everyday walking on trails or technical approach sections, each product is built to provide stability, grip and long-lasting comfort throughout the activity.

Mountain boots: stability for trekking and long hikes

Mountain boots are developed to provide consistent support and protection during demanding trekking routes and long hikes. A more structured construction helps distribute backpack weight and maintain stability on uneven or technical terrain.

Models such as RIBELLE TRK GTX and ZODIAC TRK GTX represent solutions designed for prolonged use, with a stable structure and increased protection.

Among trekking boots built for comfort on the trail, MUSTANG TRK GTX is designed to support both shorter and longer hikes with reliability. The construction balances durability, lightness and support, helping reduce foot fatigue and making it an ideal choice for new mountain enthusiasts.

Vibram® and Presa® outsoles provide traction on dry and wet surfaces, improving control. Versions featuring a GORE-TEX® membrane deliver waterproof protection and breathability without compromising internal comfort.

Mountain shoes for hiking, light hiking and approach

Low-cut mountain shoes are designed to prioritise lightness, precise foot placement and a natural stride. They are ideal for hiking and light hiking on maintained trails, dirt paths and mixed routes, where stability and control are essential.

Models such as RIBELLE CROSS 2 and MOJITO TRAIL GTX offer a versatile structure, suitable for day hikes and regular use on mixed terrain.

For approach activities, dedicated models feature a more precise forefoot construction and an outsole engineered with an optimised climbing zone in the toe area to enhance grip on rock. This design provides greater control on rocky and more technical sections, while maintaining stability and comfort. Models such as MESCALITO and RAPID XT are specifically developed for this type of use, combining precision, grip and comfort.

High-grip outsoles, combined with cushioned midsoles, help reduce foot fatigue, while durable and breathable uppers protect the foot from impacts and abrasion on rock and rough ground.

How to choose hiking shoes and mountain boots

The choice between low-cut hiking shoes and more structured mountain boots should be based on three main factors:

Route duration
Terrain type
Backpack weight

For shorter and more dynamic trails, a light and flexible structure supports freedom of movement and agility while walking.
For medium-length trekking, a mid-cut model offering more ankle stability is generally recommended.
For long hikes and more demanding routes, a structured mountain boot is the most suitable option, capable of providing constant support, such as RIBELLE TRK GTX or LADAKH GTX.

Waterproofing is another important selection factor. Versions with GORE-TEX® membrane help protect against rain and wet terrain while maintaining constant breathability.

For specific fit needs, dedicated collections for men’s hiking shoes and women’s hiking shoes are available, developed with different volumes and constructions according to foot morphology.

Technology in SCARPA mountain shoes and boots

The design integrates technical components focused on durability, stability and long-lasting comfort.

Vibram® and Presa® outsoles provide grip and abrasion resistance even on mixed terrain.
Midsoles help absorb impact and improve load distribution over long distances.
GORE-TEX® membranes deliver waterproof protection while keeping the foot dry and breathable.
Reinforced uppers protect against impacts and abrasion on rocky terrain.

Each construction element is designed to provide stability, protection and comfort, ensuring reliable performance over time.

SCARPA: technical expertise in mountain footwear

For over 80 years, SCARPA has developed mountain boots and technical footwear for hiking, trekking and outdoor use. Each model comes from the combination of material research, construction expertise and field testing in real environments. The goal is to offer reliable solutions, designed to support every step with stability and precision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between hiking shoes and mountain boots?

Low-cut hiking shoes prioritise lightness and freedom of movement, making them suitable for shorter routes and mixed terrain. Mountain boots provide greater ankle support and a more rigid structure, making them the ideal choice for longer treks and more challenging terrain.

What is the difference between hiking, trekking, light hiking, approach and backpacking?

Hiking refers to day hikes on natural trails.
Light hiking refers to shorter routes at a faster pace.
Trekking involves longer and more demanding routes lasting one or two days.
Backpacking refers to multi-day hikes with a loaded backpack, on routes that require long-lasting comfort, stability and support.
Approach refers to technical access to climbing walls or via ferratas, on mixed terrain between trail and rock.

How do I choose the right mountain shoe?

The choice depends on activity duration, terrain type and backpack weight. For short routes and regular trails, light and flexible constructions are ideal, supporting agility and a natural stride. For prolonged trekking or backpacking, more structured models are recommended to ensure stability, support and lasting protection.

It is also important to evaluate waterproofing, outsole stiffness, ankle support and intended use.

To explore selection criteria, materials and construction differences in more detail, a dedicated guide is available on how to choose the most suitable mountain shoe.

What are the best hiking shoes?

The right footwear depends on terrain type, hike duration and the required level of support. For shorter routes and well-maintained trails, light and flexible mountain shoes are ideal. For multi-day trekking or heavier loads, more structured mountain boots are more suitable, providing greater stability and protection.

Footwear matched to the activity ensures long-lasting comfort, better load distribution and greater safety throughout the route.

How do I choose the right size for mountain shoes and boots?

Fit should be precise yet comfortable, without pressure points. It is advisable to try the footwear with the socks normally used during the activity and make sure the toes have enough room, especially on descents.

On long routes, the foot should remain stable without sliding forward, also taking into account the natural swelling that may occur after many hours of walking.

To identify the most suitable size based on foot length and international conversions, consult the SCARPA size chart.

Are all mountain boots waterproof?

Not all models are waterproof. Versions with GORE-TEX® membrane are designed to deliver protection against rain and humidity while maintaining breathability.

What are hiking shoes called?

Footwear for hiking may be referred to as mountain shoes, walking shoes, hiking boots or mountain boots depending mainly on upper height and the level of support provided. In some contexts, traditional terms may also be used to indicate more robust and structured mountain boots designed to provide greater protection and stability.

What is the difference between trekking and hiking?

Hiking is a broader category that includes walking on trails of varying difficulty. Trekking generally refers to longer and more demanding routes, often lasting one or two days, which require more structured footwear to provide stability, support and long-lasting comfort.