Opinion: Garmont Leather Boots

[Rochester]

Well… it is with some trepidation that I’ve read of potential problems with my Alpina Alaska 75 boots. Hopefully, I won’t have any problems. However, I happened across some leather boots that looked like they would give the support I’m looking for on EBay, and offered $40 for them with the idea that they would make decent back-ups for use on my Hoks and Spider 62s. “Tour” is embossed on the tongue. This was totally impulse. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Are these decent boots?

Opinion: Garmont Leather Boots

[JB TELE]

The soles on old boots can fall off. Something about the old glue failing. I would give them a few test runs not far from the car before committing to a longer tour. I have some old tele boots (merrel ultra) and the quality of those old boots is superior to the new ones. Fortunately the sole has not fallen off but I will probably get them resoled this summer. Even buying an old tele boot, sending it to david page in seattle to get resoled, is a better value than something like the alaska.

[fisheater]

They look like nice boots, a quality purchase!
I think they would be a better match for the Hoks, but if the flex is soft enough you may like them with Spyders when they might not track so well with the Alaska. I’ve got 3 or 4 seasons on my Alaska 75, but I own 4 pair of boots and the Alaska BC probably gets the most use.

[Rochester]

The soles on old boots can fall off.

Looks like the soles are in pretty good shape to me. I suppose it’s hard to tell until I get them.

[phoenix]

Same breed as the other fine Italian made Nowegian welted boots of the classic era, including a full leather gusset and cuff. One thing appears different to me; looks like the ankle cuff is a single thickness of leather. I don't remember seeing any that way. If so, I wonder if the entire boot is unlined.
Which could still be a fine boot, with good socks and insole. Might want to give 'em a cleaning and some fresh conditioner. I keep my eyes open for that sort of boot as well, think I have the same 3 or 4 seasons on them as fisheater... so far so good.

[Rochester]

One thing appears different to me; looks like the ankle cuff is a single thickness of leather. I don't remember seeing any that way. If so, I wonder if the entire boot is unlined.

I think the boot is lined based on the picture below. It looks like just the very top of the tongue is a single layer.

[phoenix]

Yup, I see it now. Nice find!

[lowangle al]

Nice boots, they look like they might have 20 more years left in them, but you never know. The only structural problem I ever had with old boots was a crack in the sole at the pin line. That happened after my wife and I booted up a trail, all four boots failed the same way on the same day.

Other than that they will probably ski downhill better than almost anything on the market today. I wouldn't be surprised if they became your "go to" boot if your looking for downhill fun.