An updated version of the Mammut Mercury Advanced High II GTX for men and Nova Advanced High II GTX for women promises extra stability and grip.
Key features of Mummut Advanced High II GTX boots
Mammut®Feet Map: To ensure feet are nicely comfortable the “Feet Map” targets zones that sweat, feel the cold and are pressure-sensitive. It also locates cushioning, warming, cooling, slip and non-slip lining materials, in all the right places.
Memo Foam: Premium quality foam cushioning with elasticity, used for instep, shin and ankles.
Scale Technology: A “scale” look for sole lugs. The flexible ribs offer maximum grip on all kinds of terrain.
Rolling Concept: The sole concept has customised support and cushioning to support natural foot roll and prevent fatigue and avoiding twisting.
Liquid Rubber Protection: Zones featuring Liquid Rubber reinforcements to protect the footwear against abrasion and damage. This rubber is applied when wet and is lighter than conventional rubber rands.
Sizes: 6.5–12+13 for men and 3.5-9 for women;
Weight: Men: 1308g; women: 1072g.
SRP: £165
What’s good about the Mammut Nova Advanced High II GTX boots
I like a boot to feel immediately comfy when I put my foot inside, so I usually choose a fabric upper. I find fabric to be generally more comfortable and lightweight.
However, I am impressed by the leather Mammut boot. It is a little heavier than my usual fabric boot but not hugely so and the internal feel is really lovely. Super lovely, in fact.
The cushioned footbed feels springy and as comfortable and while the fit of the boot (I tested a women’s) is a bit wide for me I admit I do have very narrow feet. The length of the UK8 is generous.
The ankle height is fairly high and when properly laced up the boot offers really good stability and structuring, yet it still flexes enough to make it easy enough to walk uphill.
Walking in the boots is easy and comfortable. I have no idea if this is because of the “rolling concept” but I did feel as though it was a natural style of walking, rather than being inhibited, overly stiff or clumpy.
Wavy lug design.
The sole offers excellent grip. The lug pattern is different form anything else I have seen or tested but it works well on muddy paths, grass and trails. Walking downhill feels secure and I was able to easily dig in my heel to areas of loose ground.
This is a boot that would suit autumn and winter walking on Scottish hills and mountains because it’s waterproof and warming. It boasts a GORE-TEX membrane as well as the leather for keeping out the wet.
However, I wouldn’t say it’s a winter mountaineering boot. You could attach crampons but the sole is not ideal for seriously rocky terrain.
I can report that my feet did not suffer from undue sweating or cold, although the conditions for walking were not extreme. I can’t be certain that these boots are any different than others because of the Feet Map technology but I didn’t suffer rubs, cold or dampness so maybe it worked!
What’s not so good about the Mammut Advanced High II GTX boots
On balance, I think I’d prefer a lower ankle but that’s just my personal choice. If you are looking for a boot with good ankle stability this is it. There’s a mid-height Mammut Nova Mid II if you prefer.
The laces could be “less smooth”. I found they came undone quite easily so you need to tie them tightly and with a double knot. The “three zone” lacing system helps to keep the foot secure but only if you can ensure the laces stay tightly tied.
I am not keen on brown leather boots but the Mammuts do come in graphite as well, which I would prefer.
There is a tiny front toe bumper that I think would benefit from being much higher and larger. I can’t quite see the point of the mini bumper but this is a small point to make.
Conclusion: Overall, the Mammut Nova Advanced High II GTX boot is a great boot for year-round walking in Scotland if you are looking for durability, stability, high ankle structure and waterproofing. Internal comfort is excellent.
Go Outdoors sell these boots for £144. Also see Mammut.