Review and Analysis of Bestard Top Extreme Lite
Introduction
Last winter, I put the Bestard Top Extreme Lite to a test during several alpine climbing trips in deep winter in February. I used this high-mountain boot during an attempt on the Eiger and the climb of Monch’s South Pillar. Top Extreme Lite showcased high performance, providing warmth, comfort, and protection in harsh conditions. In this review, I’ll objectively highlight the advantages of this boot while also acknowledging areas where improvements could be made.
Advantages
The boot comes with a quite a large package of advantages from the Bestard brand.
Warmth & Comfort: The Gore-Tex Insulated lined removable inner boot, supplemented with isolating foam, and combined with the Thinsulate-lined exterior boot, creates a cozy and insulated environment for the foot. While I had down to around -25 C with this boot, I suspect that this design ensures sufficient protection against cold of below -30 C. Even during overnight climbs in low temps and high winds, my feet remained warm and comfortable, allowing me to focus on the climb.
Very Low Weight: This boot looks heavy but in reality it’s so light! The Top Extreme Lite’s third-generation leather double-boot concept combined with the use of Kevlar in the upper parts significantly reduces weight without compromising durability or resistance to harsh elements. It enables one to focus on the technical parts of the climb without getting
Robust Design: The robust construction provides ample protection against harsh terrains, icy slopes, and unpredictable weather. The rubber rand further shields the boot from abrasions and impacts, enhancing its longevity. It just feels sturdy and I’m sure I’ll be using it for many years to come.
Climbing Performance: The boot’s Bestflex FC+P rigid insole provides a solid & rigid platform that is ideal for technical climbs. Its precise and supportive fit ensures confidence during challenging maneuvers. Additionally, the Vibram Mont + EVA + TPU outsole delivers exceptional traction on various surfaces, enhancing overall climbing performance.
Walking Comfort and Freedom of Movement: Despite its rigid nature, the Top Extreme Lite maintains impressive walking comfort, offering flexibility and freedom of movement. This is especially advantageous during long approaches and descents when cumbersome boots can be a burden.
Quick-Lock Lacing System: The Easy-Running & Quick-Lock Lacing System allowed for swift and efficient adjustments, even while wearing gloves. This feature proved beneficial when transitioning between climbing and glacier traverse modes.
Reflective Elements: The addition of reflective elements enhances visibility during low-light conditions, ensuring safety during night descents or early morning starts.
Comfortable Bootie: The inner boot is very easy to take out and put back in, which is not always the case with such double layer boots.
Finally, efficient ventilation mitigates moisture buildup within the boot.
What To Improve?
I don’t see obvious areas for improvements, maybe except for one: the inner bootie is not attached to the outer one using a folded piece of material. While being comfortable, this part could be removed for attachment system that would enable saving some grams of weights. But again, it’s a nitpick.
Conclusion
Bestard Top Extreme Lite is a lightweight boot for demanding winter climbs and expeditions. While I only used it in winter Alps so far, I’m looking forward to taking it for colder expeditions in the next season!
More information on the boot can be found on the producer’s website. You can order them online on Sklep Gorski.