Can I be sure that my boots are warm enough for my winter hikes?
We chose a warm lining that has insulation to give you effective protection from the cold.
We tested it in the laboratory and in the field with our user representatives. We checked the temperature down to which it stays comfortable when you're stationary and when you're walking, as this varies a lot: -4°C when static and -13°C when moving. We also took into account how temperature is felt differently by men and women.
How do my boots protect me from outdoor conditions?
Your boots have been designed with a 100% waterproof mid-height inner shoe to protect the part of the foot most in contact with the snow. The textile upper is water-repellent and warm to give you good protection against cold and snow ingress.
Seams mean that the join of the inner shoe and those of the upper are not waterproof. In very deep snow, water can, over time, get in through the seams and wet the foot.
What is the difference between traction and grip?
The boots’ traction depends on the number and shape of the studs. The grip is dependent on the materials of the sole and the tread pattern, like the tyres of your car. Traction optimises propulsion, prevents the boot from slipping backwards when going uphill and stabilises the boot.
Grip prevents the boot from slipping and skidding on smooth ground or in demanding conditions (rain, snow, ice) by giving the sole grip.
Which type of grip and traction does this boot provide?
Your boots, which are equipped with SNOWCONTACT soles, have been designed for maximum comfort in terms of grip for hiking and traction on snow. The arrangement and height of the studs (5mm) are strategically placed for optimal grip when hiking on snow. The surface and layout of the studs are designed to perfectly grip the layer of hard snow and evacuate excess water to avoid slipping.
How does the SNOWCONTACT technology used on the boot sole help me?
SNOWCONTACT soles are made with a specific component and stud pattern that is designed to ensure the best possible grip and traction. SNOWCONTACT soles are more effective than traditional soles on snow. When walking on ice, the only way to ensure optimum safety is to add anti-slip grips to your boots.
Will my boots withstand regular use over the long term?
Our engineers conduct laboratory tests to ensure that the product fully complies with your satisfaction in use. Our verifications include the following elements: tearing eyelets and straps, gluing, toxicology, UV resistance, abrasion resistance of outsole and upper components, accelerated ageing.
How do I choose the right footwear for snow hiking?
To gear up in the winter, we recommend you follow the following principles :
Warmth: warmth provided by a warm pair of socks (ideally containing a suitable percentage of wool)
Breathability: Choose the sock according to the intensity of the hike and make sure you wear a breathable model to minimise moisture.
Boot height: adapt the height of the sock to the height of the upper and preferably choose high models if you want more protection.
How to dry the inside of your boot.
In use, the boot can become damp (condensation and perspiration)
If the boot is very wet, we advise you to remove the insole, fill the upper with newspaper balls and change them regularly. The paper will pump out moisture and speed up drying.
Never place your boots too close to a heat source but leave them in a warm, dry and ventilated place.
How to preserve the technical qualities of my boots?
A fabric's water repellent property is its capacity to make water run off its surface without seeping in. As a result, the fabric does not soak up water & stays light, breathable & warm. The water repellent property is achieved by treating the fabric's exterior. This treatment needs to be renewed during the lifetime of the the boot. Products (spray or liquid) for this purpose are available in our stores.
