La Sportiva Makalu Mountaineering / Heavy Backpacking Boots (Mens Size 12.5 US)

Originally costing $300+ these classic style Italian made, full steel shank leather boots are built like a tank. They were only worn for a couple weeks in casual settings in an effort to break them in. I ultimately I ended up choosing a lighter boot for my JMT backpacking trip. They accept crampons and are suitable for light mountaineering as well. These are EU size 46 but this brand runs a little small so they equivalent to US Men’s size 12.5.

This kind of boot does require breaking in. They should also be treated with waterproofing wax made for leather. You will also need to add your own insoles. I cleaned them up a bit and added some Aquaseal+ SR adhesive to the toe where the leather meets the sole since they came from the manufacturer with a tiny 1 mm deep gap. No actual separation. I just didn’t want to chance debris working its way in. La Sportiva Makalu Mountaineering / Heavy Backpacking Boots (Mens Size 12.5 US)

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