Telemark Talk / Telemark Tips Forum

Hi Alfa BC boot owners -

These boots sound amazing based on comfort and their lateral rigidity for NNN BC setups. I'm curious how strong and durable these boots actually are?

On Alfa's website, their products include this somewhat concerning piece of info...

Certain snow/crust conditions are an extreme strain on the shoes materials, and with use under such conditions increased wear is expected.

See it for yourself, under the 'ABOUT SKARVET ADVANCE GTX M' header, https://www.alfaoutdoor.com/shop/backco ... ance-gtx-m

I ski in a fair bit of crust, Spring time like snow conditions, given where I am, and especially this season.

My questions for you...

• How have these boots held up for users, and compare to other high quality BC boots?

• Any recommendations to increase lifespan of boots and leather?

Cheers

The leather is not as durable as that of the alpine Alaska but these are still good boots. I’d go for the guard or outback if you are worried of damaging the leather. You Can always smother them in shoe goo wince the leather is compromised.

What about just wearing with gators? I’ve never actually skied with them but have handled the guard advance. I was pretty impressed with the quality. The toe of the boots have a protective rubber like climbing shoes.

The Skarvets are fine, I've had mine for three seasons now and they aren't showing any signs of premature wear. The main reason the Alaska would be harder wearing is that the leather is reversed, so the rough side faces out. This just means that any abrasion is less apparent.

As long as you don't mind a few scuffs and keep them well maintained, a full grain leather boot will last a long time - the sole/toe bar will probably fail before the upper does!

Leo Tasker wrote: ↑

Mon Jan 25, 2021 4:03 am

The Skarvets are fine, I've had mine for three seasons now and they aren't showing any signs of premature wear.
...
As long as you don't mind a few scuffs and keep them well maintained, a full grain leather boot will last a long time - the sole/toe bar will probably fail before the upper does!

Great to hear! Just snagged a pair of Skarvets, can't wait to test them on skis.

The Guard BC is VERY durable.
I have put this boot through torture here in the hills, ravines, and glades.