We’ve read the reviews across the web for the La Sportiva Karakorum Mountaineering Boot – Men’s and summarize the results below:
Universal Ranking
PeakScore: 85 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.1 stars 
Expert Rating: 4.7 stars 
Number of Ratings Reviewed: 124
Pros & Cons
Reasons to buy:
User Reviews
- Perform well on multiple terrains including rocky steeps and glaciers, and suitable for long hikes and backpacking.
- Offers good ankle support.
- Lightweight for their size, stiffness and durability.
- Comfortable for walking and standing around.
- Breathes pretty well in warm weather.
- Reasonable warmth, although probably not suitable as a winter boot for extended time in the cold.
- Shorter break-in period than similarly stiff boots.
- People who climb power lines and trees for work particularly love this boot because of its stiffness and stability.
Expert Reviews
- Very breathable for their weight.
- Stay dry except when submerged for long periods.
- Stiff enough to walk comfortably in crampons and with heavy loads, but flexible enough to be comfortable in less-technical areas.
- Sticky soles to help grip rocks.
Reasons NOT to buy:
User Reviews
- When they get wet, they can soak up water and can be very difficult to dry.
- The waterproofing is weak around the toes, and moisture starts to seep in after prolonged exposure to water or snow. Some users report no problems after using additional waterproofing wax.
- The lacing system can be annoying for putting the boots on and taking them off.
- Some durability issues with delamination on the sole, although most users are very happy with the way these boots hold up over time.
Expert Reviews
- The rubber scree protector is not durable.
- The lacing design can make it a bit difficult to take the shoe off.
Summary:
The La Sportiva Karakorum Mountaineering Boot for men is a stiff and supportive boot made for the most rugged terrain across rocks, glaciers, and everything in between. Although they are made to be waterproof, extra waterproofing wax is needed to make this boot more resistant to moisture after prolonged exposure to water and snow, especially considering how long it takes for this shoe to dry. Although the Karakorum has also faced complaints about the durability of the sole, it still remains an admired boot for mountaineering and other rugged exploits.