Switch from Walk to Climb with Salewa Pro Gaiter Boot

by Alicia MacLeay
August 7, 2011

Salewa Pro Gaiter mountaineering boot

Just as you switch your AT ski boots from walk to ski mode, Salewa's Pro Gaiter will allow you to switch your mountaineering boots from walk to climb mode.

Salewa's patented Flex System can be adjusted to be either semi-flexible while walking on the approach or 100 percent rigid for climbing.

To adjust the system, turn the mechanism on the side of the heel to either "Walk" for hiking or "Climb" for climbing with its adjustment tool or a coin.

Designed for professional mountain guides and expert mountaineers, the waterproof Pro Gaiter is intended for four-season mountaineering, alpine mixed routes, and ice climbing.

It has an anatomical last with a climbing toe profile, is automatic crampon-compatible, and has a unique Vibram Salewa Pro outsole with aggressive lugs.

The Pro Gaiter is made with a Schoeller and SuperFabric upper with an internal waterproof-breathable membrane and waterproof TZip zipper. It also has a 360-degree full rubber rand and elastic gaiter.

The Pro Gaiter is available in either performance fit, for most mountaineers, or in Thinsulate insulated fit, which has a wider last and is best for the coldest conditions, or those with wide feet ($599).

Salewa also introduced a Pro Guide mountaineering boot with adjustable Flex System. It's made with a 3mm Perwanger suede leather upper, 360-degree full rubber rand, Gore-tex Insulated Comfort lining, and Vibram Salewa Pro outsole ($499).

All Salewa footwear carries a 100-percent blister-free guarantee.

Eric Henderson showed us the Salewa Pro Gaiter's patented Flex System at Outdoor Retailer.