Details
- Durable mountaineering split leather/Cordura® nylon uppers withstand frequent trips into the mountains
- GORE-TEX® waterproof, breathable membranes are guaranteed to keep your feet dry on wet trails
- Perforations in the boot linings allow air to enter, pumping heat and moisture back out, to keep your feet dry
- X-Lacing with Tongue Studs holds the tongues steady for blister and pressure-mark prevention
- Insulated footbeds for added warmth
- Ankles are designed to flex when you're hiking up steep terrain for improved comfort
- Generous rocker for ease of walking
- Vibram® Dolent outsoles, with full-length thermoplastic urethane stabilizing plates, provide lots of rigidity to secure crampons; compatible with step-in crampons
- Lowa is the official boot sponsor of the American Hiking Guides Association (AHGA)
- Boots can be resoled
Imported.
Specs
| Best Use | Mountaineering |
|---|---|
| Footwear Height | Over-the-ankle |
| Footwear Closure | Lace-up |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Upper | Split leather/cordura/microfiber |
| Lining | GORE-TEX waterproof breathable membrane |
| Insulated | Yes |
| Insulation | Fleece footbed |
| Midsole | Polyurethane |
| Support | Nylon shank |
| Outsole | Vibram rubber |
| Can Be Resoled | Yes |
| Crampon Compatibility | Step-in |
| Average Footwear Weight (Pair) | 3 lbs. 14.4 oz. |
| Gender | Men's |
Size chart
| 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 13.5 | 14 | 15 | |
| U.S. Men's | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 13.5 | 14 | 15 |
| U.S. Women's | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | |||||||||
| UK | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13.5 | 14 |
| EU | 37 | 37.5 | 38 | 39 | 39.5 | 40 | 41 | 41.5 | 42 | 42.5 | 43.5 | 44 | 44.5 | 45 | 46 | 46.5 | 47 | 48 | 48.5 | 49.5 |
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Michael-J from
Serious All-Around Boot
This is one of the best "heavy-weight" (but not too heavy at all) boots available today. Great for all-around mountaineering, they'll take you from trail head to summit. Their only limitation: not quite stiff enough for true front-pointing (ya can't have everything). They're great with crampons on moderate snow & ice, and surprisingly comfortable on approaches. Perfect boot for serious off-trail routes, and, since I bought mine a half-size "big", they're even warm on all-day snowshoe climbs in the Wasatch. They'll be great in the Wind Rivers and Cascades this summer.
Date published: 2015-05-16
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Hat from
...if there was only one pair of boots
The Lowa Mountain Expert (ME) is the best single boot out there for general mountaineering. It may be surpassed in specific categories, but no other boot does so many things so well.
The fit is the same as the heavier Lowa Weishorn (if you want ice climbing, more insulation/rigidity, and generally adhere to sheer vertical surfaces in colder weather, a better choice), and the lighter Lowa Cevedale (more of a super burly backpacking scrambling bouldering sort of boot): As a general size comparison, Lowa boots offer more volume than La Sportivas, and less than the classic Scarpas. This mean more toe room (less frostbite), but also more heel lift if you have a slender heel, which I do. I have found through lacing, and insoles, that this is not a problem with the ME's and Cevedale's. Still working on it with the Weishorns. Fit wise this is personal thing to look out for, but very important for going up long steep hills.
The ME is lightly insulated. In my experience the comfort range is about 85 - 15 degrees Fahrenheit -- i.e. very wide. Over boots and additional socks (or very good circulation) could take it to colder temperatures. The ME as a generalist replaces the La Sportiva Makalu, another great boot that does many things well; however for the same weight the ME offers insulation, and Gortex, and therefore has a wider range and is better suited to expeditions.
Plenty rigid for step-in crampons and climbing (fits G-14 cramp-o-matics perfectly), but with just enough sole flex plus rocker to actually hike rather comfortably. Breaking mine in I had no trouble carrying a 30lb pack for 5 miles on a relative flat, could have gone on all day like that (but didn't).
These boots, if they fit you, are the boots.
Date published: 2014-05-09
Rated 5 out of
5
by
ironwomble from
Hoots boots
Bought these a week ago for a toddle up Mt.Adams in a few weeks. Yikes, comfy slippers. If these boots fit your foot shape I highly recommend them. I can’t say they’re value for money as they cost and arm and a leg.
I’ve a wide fore foot and have had most success with Kastinger and the old Koflach. Scarpa and the rest of the narrow last boots, just don’t fit me right.
First outing, 6 mls up and down Tiger mountain, second outing 8+ mls up and down Granite mountain, narry a blister. Warm for low down summer hikes, feet were very warm, so I’m expecting they’ll be just right up in the snow. The sole is super grippy and the cuff is just firm enough to be supportive without rubbing. The rounded soles makes walking a breeze. I haven’t put crampons on them yet, but the sole is plenty stiff.
I’ll update once I get back in a few.
Date published: 2015-07-13
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Marcolio from
Good Mountaineering Boots
I used these boots on a 3 week long mountaineering trip in the Gore Mountain Range of Colorado. I switched the insole for a Superfeet insole. These boots were very comfortable and my feet never experienced aches, even after 8 hours of hiking. The waterproof lining worked very well, though the exterior of the boot didn't dry quickly. This was a cosmetic issue. My only complaint would be in the warmth of the boot. My feet did get a little cold at times in them. Other than that, the boot performed extremely well.
Date published: 2015-07-31
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Phil A from
Great boot out of the box
I bought this boot last year for a late December Mt. Washington, NH climb. On the hike in it rained quite hard and my feet did not get wet. Once I hit the lean to at Tuckerman's ravine I through on my G12 automatic crampons with no problem. The boots were stiff and felt good. On the top of Mt. Washington the weather was to be expected, -10 deg, with 80+ mph winds and my feet were never cold or clammy. I wear a size 9, but ordered a 9 1/2 because the boots run a little small and it also added some room in the toe box for wiggling, plus if kicking steps my toes don't hit the front of the boot!
I upgraded from the Sportiva Makalu and couldn't be happier! No real break-in, the only issue is that the boot is pretty narrow. I have narrow feet, but right along the side of my foot (the outer edge from mid foot to just before the pinky toe) the boot was tight. It has broken in now and feels great. This is the only reason I give these 4 stars! And I got the boots in green!!
Date published: 2015-11-29
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Lazurus from
a good approach and better mountaineering boot.
Took these on a 9 mile break-in hike. Started on dirt and rock trails under 76 degree sunny skies then hiked up to 12,000 feet with snow underfoot and the boot performed quite well. Certainly waterproof as I splashed though spring run-off. The fit is excellent for my wide fore foot and narrow heal and I could still wiggle my toes, the heal pull loop is appreciated. And with the warm weather and wool socks my feet did not sweat out, I was happy about that as in winter, wet equals cold. Once on the snow the boots had great traction on both hard packed and slushy late day snow. A good approach boot and a better mountaineering boot. I look forward to trying them out in colder temps.
Date published: 2017-06-05
Rated 2 out of
5
by
Roast Cabbage from
Poor Quality
I purchased these boots last minute in Spring 2014 before a Mt Hood summit (my first Cascade Volcano). I picked them solely because they were the only boot in stock that fit my WIDE toe-box, narrow heel and high arch. Quite heavy for their class, but a necessary sacrifice for fit. I climbed a handful of volcanoes in these last season, but when I broke them out this season, a friend noticed the black rubber seal was detaching from both boots and "chipping"/peeling around the toe areas. He said he had the same boots and returned them to REI for the same reason. He traded them in for a pair of Nepals, which are much lighter, warmer and still look almost brand new after countless aggressive alpine summits. Unfortunately, by the time he pointed out the defective wear on my boots my one-year REI return opportunity had already passed. I certainly would never recommend a LOWA product to anyone after this.
Date published: 2015-09-11
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Daniel Weiss from
Solid Boot
Definitely recommend this boot. Durable, comfortable, and warm. Perfect boot for winter in Colorado. I've used these in extreme weather and up moderate-steep snow climbs, and they worked like a dream. Only complaint I have are the laces, and I do occasionally get blisters on my heels, probably my own fault for not tying them tight enough. They are a narrower boot, so if you plan on wearing double socks like me, your foot will feel a little tight, but not unreasonably so. If these were a bit wider, I'd probably give them a 5 star review.
Date published: 2015-10-29
I am looking for a good pair of mountaineering boots that may also be decent for backpacking. I have a pair of Scarpa Wrangells that had a very long break-in period. Do the Lowa ME's have less of a break-in period? Are they OK for backpacking?
While you may get away with using a rigid hiking boot that has been well waterproofed and a pair of strap in style crampons for non technical mountaineering you're bound to run into issues especially in steeper grades or harder snow. Vice versa using a mountaineering boot for hiking the AT in the warmer months is going to be a sweaty experience. You could always try using one of the softer boots. In either case you can't go wrong with La Sportiva. I have owned a pair of Batura for 3 years and have an ancient pair of Nepals.
Date published: 2017-07-19
To all you Lowa GTX EVO owners. I am planning on climbing the 7 day Inca trail in Peru in a couple months. Would that be a good boot for that trail/experience?
It's not necessary. I hiked the Inca trail in Teva's back in the day, and the local porters who are contracted by guides wear sandals made from used tires. The mountain experts are overkill. A light mid-weight hiker would be fine.
Date published: 2017-05-27
would this boot be ok on 10-15 farenheit weather?
This boot only has insulation in the sole, it does not have insulation in the uppers. While some people may be able to get away with heavy socks in those conditions, for most people it would be uncomfortable and impractical. You may want to consider a fully insulated mountaineering boot.
Date published: 2017-07-19
Anyone try these at higher altitude or in severe cold? Worn them in the PNW loads.. Rainer, Baker.. etc. Now in Chile thinking of use for a different beast... Would these be warm enough for a climb up to roughly 7000 meters/climb Aconcagua?
​This is not a fully insulated boot and should not be used for very high altitude mountaineering or severe cold. For a climb such as Aconcagua we recommend a fully insulated mountaineering boot.
Date published: 2017-04-23
Will these boots be too insulated for an extended summer backpacking trip?
These boots will be too warm and stiff for most extended summer backpacking trips. This boot is ideal for heavy backpacking trips above tree line and for mixed climbing on rock and snow. If your extended backpacking trip is mostly non-technical, we would suggest a leather hiking boot in the $250 range. Keep in mind that GORE-TEX linings while waterproof and somewhat breathable, can add a degree of unwanted warmth to the boot. If you are concerned with waterproofing, you can always apply a waterproofing and conditioning agent like that made by Nikwax.
Date published: 2015-09-20
Lowa now makes these boots in brown/black. Can REI provide these boots in brown?
Unfortunately, we are unable to supply the Mountain Expert GTX EVO Mountaineering Boots in a different color.
Date published: 2017-04-23
Are these boot stiff enough to use for ice climbing on vertical ice?
The Mountain Expert GTX boots would be a fine choice for ice climbing. We would also recommend using crampons such as the Petzl Lynx Leverlock Modular Crampons for ice climbing.
http://www.rei.com/product/830893/petzl-lynx-leverlock-modular-crampons
Date published: 2015-09-20
Size chart
| 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 13.5 | 14 | 15 | |
| U.S. Men's | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13 | 13.5 | 14 | 15 |
| U.S. Women's | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | |||||||||
| UK | 4 | 4.5 | 5 | 5.5 | 6 | 6.5 | 7 | 7.5 | 8 | 8.5 | 9 | 9.5 | 10 | 10.5 | 11 | 11.5 | 12 | 12.5 | 13.5 | 14 |
| EU | 37 | 37.5 | 38 | 39 | 39.5 | 40 | 41 | 41.5 | 42 | 42.5 | 43.5 | 44 | 44.5 | 45 | 46 | 46.5 | 47 | 48 | 48.5 | 49.5 |
Reviews
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Michael-J from
Serious All-Around Boot
This is one of the best "heavy-weight" (but not too heavy at all) boots available today. Great for all-around mountaineering, they'll take you from trail head to summit. Their only limitation: not quite stiff enough for true front-pointing (ya can't have everything). They're great with crampons on moderate snow & ice, and surprisingly comfortable on approaches. Perfect boot for serious off-trail routes, and, since I bought mine a half-size "big", they're even warm on all-day snowshoe climbs in the Wasatch. They'll be great in the Wind Rivers and Cascades this summer.
Date published: 2015-05-16
Rated 5 out of
5
by
Hat from
...if there was only one pair of boots
The Lowa Mountain Expert (ME) is the best single boot out there for general mountaineering. It may be surpassed in specific categories, but no other boot does so many things so well.
The fit is the same as the heavier Lowa Weishorn (if you want ice climbing, more insulation/rigidity, and generally adhere to sheer vertical surfaces in colder weather, a better choice), and the lighter Lowa Cevedale (more of a super burly backpacking scrambling bouldering sort of boot): As a general size comparison, Lowa boots offer more volume than La Sportivas, and less than the classic Scarpas. This mean more toe room (less frostbite), but also more heel lift if you have a slender heel, which I do. I have found through lacing, and insoles, that this is not a problem with the ME's and Cevedale's. Still working on it with the Weishorns. Fit wise this is personal thing to look out for, but very important for going up long steep hills.
The ME is lightly insulated. In my experience the comfort range is about 85 - 15 degrees Fahrenheit -- i.e. very wide. Over boots and additional socks (or very good circulation) could take it to colder temperatures. The ME as a generalist replaces the La Sportiva Makalu, another great boot that does many things well; however for the same weight the ME offers insulation, and Gortex, and therefore has a wider range and is better suited to expeditions.
Plenty rigid for step-in crampons and climbing (fits G-14 cramp-o-matics perfectly), but with just enough sole flex plus rocker to actually hike rather comfortably. Breaking mine in I had no trouble carrying a 30lb pack for 5 miles on a relative flat, could have gone on all day like that (but didn't).
These boots, if they fit you, are the boots.
Date published: 2014-05-09
Rated 5 out of
5
by
ironwomble from
Hoots boots
Bought these a week ago for a toddle up Mt.Adams in a few weeks. Yikes, comfy slippers. If these boots fit your foot shape I highly recommend them. I can’t say they’re value for money as they cost and arm and a leg.
I’ve a wide fore foot and have had most success with Kastinger and the old Koflach. Scarpa and the rest of the narrow last boots, just don’t fit me right.
First outing, 6 mls up and down Tiger mountain, second outing 8+ mls up and down Granite mountain, narry a blister. Warm for low down summer hikes, feet were very warm, so I’m expecting they’ll be just right up in the snow. The sole is super grippy and the cuff is just firm enough to be supportive without rubbing. The rounded soles makes walking a breeze. I haven’t put crampons on them yet, but the sole is plenty stiff.
I’ll update once I get back in a few.
Date published: 2015-07-13
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Marcolio from
Good Mountaineering Boots
I used these boots on a 3 week long mountaineering trip in the Gore Mountain Range of Colorado. I switched the insole for a Superfeet insole. These boots were very comfortable and my feet never experienced aches, even after 8 hours of hiking. The waterproof lining worked very well, though the exterior of the boot didn't dry quickly. This was a cosmetic issue. My only complaint would be in the warmth of the boot. My feet did get a little cold at times in them. Other than that, the boot performed extremely well.
Date published: 2015-07-31
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Phil A from
Great boot out of the box
I bought this boot last year for a late December Mt. Washington, NH climb. On the hike in it rained quite hard and my feet did not get wet. Once I hit the lean to at Tuckerman's ravine I through on my G12 automatic crampons with no problem. The boots were stiff and felt good. On the top of Mt. Washington the weather was to be expected, -10 deg, with 80+ mph winds and my feet were never cold or clammy. I wear a size 9, but ordered a 9 1/2 because the boots run a little small and it also added some room in the toe box for wiggling, plus if kicking steps my toes don't hit the front of the boot!
I upgraded from the Sportiva Makalu and couldn't be happier! No real break-in, the only issue is that the boot is pretty narrow. I have narrow feet, but right along the side of my foot (the outer edge from mid foot to just before the pinky toe) the boot was tight. It has broken in now and feels great. This is the only reason I give these 4 stars! And I got the boots in green!!
Date published: 2015-11-29
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Lazurus from
a good approach and better mountaineering boot.
Took these on a 9 mile break-in hike. Started on dirt and rock trails under 76 degree sunny skies then hiked up to 12,000 feet with snow underfoot and the boot performed quite well. Certainly waterproof as I splashed though spring run-off. The fit is excellent for my wide fore foot and narrow heal and I could still wiggle my toes, the heal pull loop is appreciated. And with the warm weather and wool socks my feet did not sweat out, I was happy about that as in winter, wet equals cold. Once on the snow the boots had great traction on both hard packed and slushy late day snow. A good approach boot and a better mountaineering boot. I look forward to trying them out in colder temps.
Date published: 2017-06-05
Rated 2 out of
5
by
Roast Cabbage from
Poor Quality
I purchased these boots last minute in Spring 2014 before a Mt Hood summit (my first Cascade Volcano). I picked them solely because they were the only boot in stock that fit my WIDE toe-box, narrow heel and high arch. Quite heavy for their class, but a necessary sacrifice for fit. I climbed a handful of volcanoes in these last season, but when I broke them out this season, a friend noticed the black rubber seal was detaching from both boots and "chipping"/peeling around the toe areas. He said he had the same boots and returned them to REI for the same reason. He traded them in for a pair of Nepals, which are much lighter, warmer and still look almost brand new after countless aggressive alpine summits. Unfortunately, by the time he pointed out the defective wear on my boots my one-year REI return opportunity had already passed. I certainly would never recommend a LOWA product to anyone after this.
Date published: 2015-09-11
Rated 4 out of
5
by
Daniel Weiss from
Solid Boot
Definitely recommend this boot. Durable, comfortable, and warm. Perfect boot for winter in Colorado. I've used these in extreme weather and up moderate-steep snow climbs, and they worked like a dream. Only complaint I have are the laces, and I do occasionally get blisters on my heels, probably my own fault for not tying them tight enough. They are a narrower boot, so if you plan on wearing double socks like me, your foot will feel a little tight, but not unreasonably so. If these were a bit wider, I'd probably give them a 5 star review.
Date published: 2015-10-29
Questions & Answers
I am looking for a good pair of mountaineering boots that may also be decent for backpacking. I have a pair of Scarpa Wrangells that had a very long break-in period. Do the Lowa ME's have less of a break-in period? Are they OK for backpacking?
While you may get away with using a rigid hiking boot that has been well waterproofed and a pair of strap in style crampons for non technical mountaineering you're bound to run into issues especially in steeper grades or harder snow. Vice versa using a mountaineering boot for hiking the AT in the warmer months is going to be a sweaty experience. You could always try using one of the softer boots. In either case you can't go wrong with La Sportiva. I have owned a pair of Batura for 3 years and have an ancient pair of Nepals.
Date published: 2017-07-19
To all you Lowa GTX EVO owners. I am planning on climbing the 7 day Inca trail in Peru in a couple months. Would that be a good boot for that trail/experience?
It's not necessary. I hiked the Inca trail in Teva's back in the day, and the local porters who are contracted by guides wear sandals made from used tires. The mountain experts are overkill. A light mid-weight hiker would be fine.
Date published: 2017-05-27
would this boot be ok on 10-15 farenheit weather?
This boot only has insulation in the sole, it does not have insulation in the uppers. While some people may be able to get away with heavy socks in those conditions, for most people it would be uncomfortable and impractical. You may want to consider a fully insulated mountaineering boot.
Date published: 2017-07-19
Anyone try these at higher altitude or in severe cold? Worn them in the PNW loads.. Rainer, Baker.. etc. Now in Chile thinking of use for a different beast... Would these be warm enough for a climb up to roughly 7000 meters/climb Aconcagua?
​This is not a fully insulated boot and should not be used for very high altitude mountaineering or severe cold. For a climb such as Aconcagua we recommend a fully insulated mountaineering boot.
Date published: 2017-04-23
Will these boots be too insulated for an extended summer backpacking trip?
These boots will be too warm and stiff for most extended summer backpacking trips. This boot is ideal for heavy backpacking trips above tree line and for mixed climbing on rock and snow. If your extended backpacking trip is mostly non-technical, we would suggest a leather hiking boot in the $250 range. Keep in mind that GORE-TEX linings while waterproof and somewhat breathable, can add a degree of unwanted warmth to the boot. If you are concerned with waterproofing, you can always apply a waterproofing and conditioning agent like that made by Nikwax.
Date published: 2015-09-20
Lowa now makes these boots in brown/black. Can REI provide these boots in brown?
Unfortunately, we are unable to supply the Mountain Expert GTX EVO Mountaineering Boots in a different color.
Date published: 2017-04-23
Are these boot stiff enough to use for ice climbing on vertical ice?
The Mountain Expert GTX boots would be a fine choice for ice climbing. We would also recommend using crampons such as the Petzl Lynx Leverlock Modular Crampons for ice climbing.
http://www.rei.com/product/830893/petzl-lynx-leverlock-modular-crampons
Date published: 2015-09-20
