Jaime Moreno Montes experiences the Super Ice Evo Gtx by Kayland

Published by Mountainblog on 06/23/2015.

In principle I am not the biggest fan of this type of boots. I mean, I prefer modern synthetic materials and the advantages they offer. So when I met the project of Super Ice Evo GTX, I was not too excited …After they have been tested, climbing with them and wear them for many hours, I can only but clap the idea of Kayland.

CONSTRUCTION: Following the commitment and quality standard of Kayland, boots are manufactured in Europe with the best materials available on the market. The entire part of waterproof suede leather 3.5mm, together with integral Gore-Tex Duratherm liner and uncut rubber band make the Super Ice Evo GTX boot bombproof against moisture and abrasion. On the sides of the tongue it is placed synthetic material more flexible than suede, which makes it very comfortable lacing. Riveted holes, including two self-locking to facilitate and customize the lacing, and a piece of sturdy nylon ensure loop.
HPS technology consists of a molded plastic part that covers the heel of the boot. Its purpose really get fit and comfort for heel: The heel fit is one of my main problems with shoes for alpinism. I almost never got boots that fit me well in that area. Kayland gets adjusted to a higher number of users well. To this also contributes its Pro Last, designed to fit most feet while maintaining a high performance footwear. To further increase its thermal capacity wear Primaloft filling, through which will finally get a very warm boot, while Cocona lining optimizes moisture management.

I would highlight the insoles: Technical, technological and very expensive shoes can not bring components that are not up to par, which normally happens with insoles, and these are a mere sheet of felt with a polymer in most cases. The Super Ice Evo GTX insoles are better than good. Filled with Primaloft, very good construction and padding.

FEATURES: What distinguishes the Super Ice Evo GTX of the rest is that it is the first shoe with CE certified to work in the mountains. That is, it is certified as working shoes for ski staff, maintenance workers of cable cars and other installations, people that works in cold places … And a long etc.This CE certificate ensures a comfortable, ergonomic, warm, durable and with a high level of protection against bumps and abrasions boot. And protection against electric shocks, which achieved by a wire placed at the bottom of the insole. The Smart PU strategically placed under the heel and metatarsal area (the areas of greatest impact of the foot) fulfills its dual function of cushioning and protection/stabilization of tread very well. I always just crushed feet after several hours with alpine shoes, I could be more than 11 hours with Super Ice Evo GTX without any discomfort. Thanks Kayland!! A double tongue that binds with Velcro makes it possible to customize the fit of the shoe depending on the height of our instep. This is not new, but it is an important detail for people with rare feet like me…

PERFORMANCE: As I said before, personally I have many problems with climbing shoes, that being so close to winning in technicality, compress my metatarsal area preventing it fully supports, causing me severe discomfort after many hours of activity. Kaylandget this don’t pass me through the already cited above last Pro Last. And in the Super Ice Evo GTX we found the perfect balance between comfort and performance. In rock climbing work perfectly, holding the foot well and allowing to use small holds and rock ledges becouse the toe of the sole is narrow and precise. With crampons sensations are equally good. Stiff front points technique, balance between flexion and subject to the hillside and perfect fit crampons (BD Stinger and Blade Runner CAMP model).

After many hours with my feet deep in snow neither moisture nor cold they were noted. As it should be in a good climbing shoes.

CONCLUSION: With a weight in line with its competitors (1140 grams size 8.5 UK), this is a boot of extreme quality and performance that manages to be precise and technical without sacrificing comfort, warmth and adaptability. Very good choice for any alpine party: Gullies, north faces, waterfalls, classic climbs … Its thermal capacity allows light and fast use in large climbs mountains outside Europe. An all terrain boot that worth trying if you are someone who has not yet found you proper last or your favorite brand!

Jaime Moreno Montes (Kayland Athlete)

INFO: Kayland

Kayland®’s main goal is the production of high quality outdoor shoes designed for a highly specialized market, with particular focus on foot anatomy and dynamics, technological research, careful materials selection, innovative design. The maintenance of a high profile standard in quality ensures to Kayland® a position of excellence in the outdoor global market. Product and service quality are the basis of customers’ loyalty and of a positive brand image. This is our challenge. We want top athletes and mountain professionals to proudly wear Kayland® shoes because they feel their added value in terms of performance. We want travellers and explorers to wear Kayland® shoes because they are functional and comfortable. We want people to wear Kayland® shoes, because we are passionate as they are.