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After seven years of loyal service, my Mammut Brecon GTX boots have finally given up the ghost — the soles worn clean through after countless miles across every kind of terrain. They were fantastic boots: comfortable, dependable, and confidence-inspiring when scrambling.
For their replacement, I chose the Mammut Trovat Guide II High GTX Hiking Boot — and I’m pleased to say, they’re proving to be an excellent upgrade.
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Key Features
- Vibram MT Traction II Sole – backpacking-grade traction and durability
- GORE-TEX Performance Comfort membrane – waterproof and breathable
- Memory Foam padding – comfort around shin and ankle
- Full rand – protection around the entire boot
- Compatible with B1 walking crampons – suitable for light winter mountaineering
- RRP: £220 – £280
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First Impressions
Straight out of the box, I was impressed by the full protective rand that wraps around the entire boot. As someone who regularly scrambles, this is a big improvement over my old Brecon GTX, where the rand only covered the toe. It’s a simple but valuable upgrade that helps protect the boot from rocks, scree, and rough terrain.
The design feels sturdy yet refined — clearly a boot built for mountain use but without unnecessary bulk.
Comfort and Fit
Mammut’s Memory Foam padding around the shin and ankle adds noticeable comfort without feeling spongy. On my first weekend with them — scrambling in Snowdonia and ascending Bristly Ridge — they were comfortable straight out of the box.
Even after long, steep days and a full weekend of wear, I experienced no blisters or rubbing. (Of course, wearing high-quality hiking socks helps enormously — the right combination can make all the difference.)
Waterproofing and Breathability
A GORE-TEX lining is non-negotiable for me. It offers top-level waterproofing while remaining impressively breathable.
Let’s be honest — no waterproof boot completely eliminates sweat during hard ascents, but the GORE-TEX lining in the Trovat Guide II does a great job of balancing breathability and protection. I’ve owned non-GORE-TEX boots before and still have nightmares about putting wet shoes back on the next morning — never again!
Traction and Performance
The Vibram MT Traction II sole is excellent. During my first outing in Snowdonia, I immediately felt confident in my footing across rocky and wet terrain.
On Bristly Ridge, the boots felt stable and precise — I had complete faith in the edges on small footholds while scrambling. They grip well without feeling overly stiff, and the sole gives just the right amount of feedback when moving quickly over mixed ground.
Winter Capability
Being B1 crampon compatible, the Trovat Guide II boots also open the door to light winter mountaineering. For gentler winter routes or mixed scrambles, I can comfortably use these instead of my heavier, more rigid alpine boots — a big advantage for all-season hikers.
Value and Verdict
At £250 RRP, the Trovat Guide II High GTX boots sit at the premium end of the market. But boots are one area where it pays not to cut corners — your feet are your foundation for every adventure.
The quality of materials, build, and design justify the cost, and you can often find them for less with a bit of searching.
If my old Brecons hadn’t finally succumbed to time, I might never have replaced them — but I’m glad I did. The Mammut Trovat Guide II High GTX is every bit as good, if not better: comfortable, durable, and confidence-inspiring in all conditions.
I look forward to many future adventures with these boots on my feet.
| Model | Weight | Crampon Rating | Price | Buy Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mammut Trovat Guide II High GTX | 820 g (per boot, approx.) | B1 – C1 Compatible | £220 – £280 | View on Go Outdoors |
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