La Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX Boots In-Depth Review

Aaron brings you the La Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX mountaineering boots, referred to as Cubes. He uses these boots on light-duty mountains like Mt. Hood, Mt. Shasta, or Rainier in the summer. He shares sizing, fit, crampon attachments, Microspikes usage, warmth, comparisons, dimensions, and weights in this video.
2:46 Fit function size
5:06 Sole closeup
10:17 Additional insoles
11:40 Extreme closeup of boot
12:23 Microspikes
13:38 Crampons
16:46 Weight
18:15 Boot dimensions
20:16 Tongue expander
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Get items from this video at Amazon:
La Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX: amzn.to/2Y6RKC4
Grivel Crampons: amzn.to/33GTrXV
Katahoola Microspikes: amzn.to/2P3Dg1L
Outdoor Research Gaiters for the Cubes: amzn.to/2PcgIvU
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[@ALinsdau]

La Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX: amzn.to/2Y6RKC4 Grivel Crampons: amzn.to/33GTrXV Katahoola Microspikes: amzn.to/2P3Dg1L Outdoor Research Gaiters for the Cubes: amzn.to/2PcgIvU

[@georged822]

You have “influencers” on KZbin, and then you have experienced pros like this knowledgeable gentleman. Great vid!

[@ALinsdau]

Wow, thanks!

[@jimmyg2534]

A brilliantly comprehensive review of these boots, enjoying the videos very informative. Keep it up!

[@ALinsdau]

Thank you Jimmy G.

[@aaronagee4893]

Great review of a great boot - I enjoyed the knowledge about crampon fit. I figured out on my boots that the large unidentified loop on the tongue of the boot is for releasing the d-ring style lace lock system. Pull on the loop to release without having to dig your fingers into the laces. Thanks for the great review and please keep it up!

[@ALinsdau]

Sweet thank you for the insight on the mystery loop.

[@brandonbrown6544]

I know this video is older but for those watching this for the first time. That pull tab is for releasing the lace lock…

[@ALinsdau]

Thanks!

[@dimitriosgreek1458]

Great review Aaron. I just bought the EVO model and breaking them in as we speak with different socks, insoles, and with/without the tongue insert. Thanks!

[@ALinsdau]

Great - climb safely!!

[@danadess]

I'm learning so much about gear on your channel, thank you Aaron. I feel like there aren't a lot of opportunities for beginners to learn about 4-season gear. Even if you pay big bucks for showshoeing classes etc, they don't give a rundown on what gear is best.

[@ALinsdau]

My pleasure! Check out my latest video on How to Stay Coordinated in Double Boots with Crampons: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5q0nZWmdrKfn80 Let me know if you have more questions I can answer.

[@RoryVanucchi]

Thanks for the input Al. Enjoy your take on products

[@ALinsdau]

You bet

[@vickilinsdau8687]

Great review, very in-depth 👍🏻🧦🥾🥾

[@ALinsdau]

Thank you.

[@kylemoore3335]

Thank you, still a beginner, this helps tons

[@ALinsdau]

Glad to hear it!

[@lukasklos5188]

Great review, thank you 😌🧗‍♂️

[@ALinsdau]

My pleasure!

[@KtunaxaMTB]

Your reviews are deadly. Just bought these but never tried the kick test. I'm hoping I didn't get them too tight haha.

[@ALinsdau]

The kick test - if your toes hit on the first try, it could be a real problem going downhill.

[@willgreen77]

Great review. One thing--at 8:30 you talk about needing to stick your fingers in to release the lace from the lace locks. Actually, if you pull up on the lace lock release loop on the tongue it releases the laces from the lace locks. This is the function of that loop. regards.

[@ALinsdau]

Thanks!

[@jasyamaha]

Fantastic, thank you very much

[@ALinsdau]

Thank you too!

[@Travelleramit]

Namaste from India 🇮🇳 Gr8 content 👌

[@ALinsdau]

Thanks for watching!

[@hoppy1970]

Good review. I wear these for the same reason - wide feet. I bought G14 to replace my incompatible Petzl Vasak (toe bail issue). The LS laces are like a wire saw :D

[@ALinsdau]

That they are.

[@christheswiss390]

I've had the exact same experience, sans the south pole expedition 😉: I've had to ditch all my size 10 1/2 and 11 shoes (even my beloved Karakorum's 😔) and am now also on the Cube at Euro-size 46! It takes getting some used to with the oversize for the wide foot on some more challenging tours, but I can now do longer tours without the foot pains and toe cramps I used to get on the shoes that were too narrow, so if anything, safety has increased by going extra long.

[@ALinsdau]

Very true - be safe out there.

[@PrincipledNaturalLaw]

Sealed tongues are such an excellent idea.

[@ALinsdau]

They are nice.

[@eliasc85]

Thank you that you included the weight in grams! Please do that in further videos also. nice videos, thanks!

[@eliasc85]

and also please add the temperature in C°

[@ALinsdau]

Sure thing. I try to remember as much as possible and I'll do my best. We Americans still like our English system. :)

[@sonicstep]

06:40, I just tried that method. Surprisingly, it feels more comfortable.

[@ALinsdau]

Great!

[@tintin112358]

the pull tongue on the outside of the boot is to undo the the locks!!!

[@ALinsdau]

Thanks for pointing that out!

[@marctetaz6370]

Hi, thanks for the video ! In the video it is the 2019 model and Amz link 2020 model? Thanks

[@ALinsdau]

The 2020 model is 4oz lighter. That’s amazing. However, the bonus is the 2018 models are highly discounted.

[@beleriandthingor374]

Thanks for this Video, I've a question: Do you know if the Scarpa Inverno boots or the Boreal Kangri Bi-Flex boots would be a nice choise for Aconcagua? :D Thanks and Regards!!!

[@ALinsdau]

Definitely double boots.

[@donaldduck6009]

I didn't know that I am gramman, sounds like a superhero :))

[@ALinsdau]

Nice.

[@santiagog.velarde8301]

Amazing review, maybe you could make a video reviewing some overboots that could fit the cubes??

[@ALinsdau]

If I can get some from Forty Below, I'll do it.

[@juliawale4294]

that little loop on top of the boot is for popping open the lace locks

[@ALinsdau]

Thanks!

[@jacobross4112]

Hi Aaron, what was the fit like on the boot. Did you have to buy a slightly bigger size compared to your average shoe?

[@ALinsdau]

Yes, I did size up so I could use a thicker sock. Don't go too much bigger or they'll flop around.

[@adamfoster3276]

Having issues with mine chafing on my calves with the built in elastic gator. Any advice? Other than that these things are great!

[@ALinsdau]

Are your socks tall enough? Stuff your long underwear in - that helps too.

[@marcellomarchetti1206]

Hey! Great so hear your opinion since I'm thinking about buying these for Elbrus and Acongaqua climb! Can I ask you if you have tried Nepal Extreme and if you think they can do the job for both mounts aswell? I'll save more than 100€ if I choose these

[@ALinsdau]

These boots won't be warm enough for either of those mountains. You'll freeze your toes. You need double boots like the Baruntse: amzn.to/2QXbarC

[@cshanek]

I have a pair of these, and have also had my toes get a little cold below 0. I am wondering if you have ever tried over-boot gaiters, like OR's X-gaiter, or forty below overboots for additional warmth, and also how over-boot gaiter options would effect the toe bail fitting for different crampon types.

[@ALinsdau]

I've used my custom-designed gaiters. I have overboots but they're super tough to put on the boots. It's a wrestling match.

[@tecmissle9256]

Well what terrain you buy these for if not below 0 what a joke sorry

[@odyssey37]

When you say cold please say the temperature in Celsius so it is possible to understand what you mean

[@ALinsdau]

Thank you for pointing that out.

[@cameliapavel1880]

Son mis botas ideales. Me lo regaló mi ex después de quedar en una simple amistad la relación. Son las segundas botas después de usar las primeras por 50e calidad no tiene comparación en nada. Mi experiencia la primera vez me ha impactado voy con ellas en todos los viajes. Es cierto no son flexibles para nada rigidez total 100%. Les adoro engancha a ellas. Son mi compañía mi amante de las montañas 😍😍😍😍

[@ALinsdau]

Thanks for the watch.

[@toxxatoxxt9490]

Hey Aaron, how would you size this boot? I can't decide between two half sizes, in the smaller one I can force my way all the way to the front if I really toe point and press really hard and on the other one I can't do it, but it feels a bit to big. I am afraid, that I could slip down on a small edge, because the gap would be to big on the front.

[@ALinsdau]

Do the kick test. Kick the ground. The first kick shouldn't hit your toes, the 2nd should tap, and the third should contact.

[@alexperkins8261]

Great video, do you have a possible ID on your running trainers? Struggling to find those exact ones online

[@ALinsdau]

Specifically these: ASICS Men's Gel-Kahana 8 Running Shoe: amzn.to/3HBHV4T Other shoes I use: ASICS Men's Gel-Kahana 8 Running Shoe: amzn.to/3HBHV4T ASICS Women's Gel-Venture: amzn.to/3IDP6ub ASICS Men's Gel-Kahana 8 Running Shoe: amzn.to/3q3520X ASICS Women's Gel-Kayano 26: amzn.to/35JozN9 ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 27: amzn.to/3sqDG5O

[@Drbulletproof]

Thank you for the video! Do you have any heel lift? For me It has been constant issue with all the mountaneering boots that I tried out, i am wondering if it's normal

[@ALinsdau]

I have a little bit of heel lift. If you need, add a achilles heel cup into the boot. That helps a lot. I had to do it on my Alfa Mordre Pros.

[@Drbulletproof]

@@ALinsdau Thank you very much for the answer, il try that out and see how it feels!

[@2441844]

I am doing Mt Baker this summer. Was wondering I can use the Nepal for the entire climb or do you recommend using approach shoes to basecamp and then switching to the Nepal?

[@alaskanborn3459]

I'm climbing MT.Adams and I was wondering the same ?

[@2441844]

@@alaskanborn3459 i did the whole climb in the Nepal's. The approach shoes add too much extra weight IMO

[@alaskanborn3459]

@@2441844 Awesome thank you.

[@rachel7550]

So I’m going on a workshop trip hiking in Utah during the night and standing around for a long time in 30 degree weather, I have reynauds so looking for boots that are super warm but also fairly lightweight/able to accomplish some scrambling in. Any recommendations? I’m def going to bring foot warmers and wool socks, but I know ultimately having a good boot will be the core of the trip. Thanks!!! ^figured I could maybe use these boots for that and then a future Alaska trip but then now I’m thinking they might be overkill?😅

[@ALinsdau]

Get some regular insulated boots. These won't be comfortable for hiking at all. I use Danner 400g insulated boots - super nice.

[@rachel7550]

@@ALinsdau thank you!!! Will do, I’ve been wanting to get some Danners for a while. Ordered some Solomon toundra pro for now since I needed something asap for the trip and some reviews said they’re warm. Won’t be as much hiking this particular trip so hopefully they do for now🤷🏽‍♀️

[@victord5548]

Aaron , in your opinion will this model be worm enough for Kazbek? (5000 m)

[@ALinsdau]

No, these boots will leave your feet chilled below -18ºC (0ºF ). Today's forecast for that mountain at the summit is a low of -11ºC with a windchill down to -24ºC. I would definitely recommend double boots like these at Amazon: La Sportiva Men's Baruntse Hiking Shoe: amzn.to/2S9gLxH

[@josegarciajr6589]

Good day to you. I will be going to labuche peak in October what’s your subjection on boots

[@ALinsdau]

You'll need at least double boots for that one.

[@faceindisguise85]

that loop in the tongue and laces that you didn't know what it was for.. seems like if you pull that loop it disengaged the lace locks rather than having to stick your finger under a tight lace.

[@ALinsdau]

Yes, thanks!

[@andygustafson1]

Hi I know my size in la sportive trail runners that work well for me with darn tough socks. Would you recommend upsizing 1/2 or whole size from my known la sportiva sizing to accommodate a dual sock system? Local shops do not stock them so hoping to get your insight before ordering online. Thank you!

[@ALinsdau]

I upsized so I can fit my socks and still wiggle my toes. I can always cram thicker socks on but if my feet are too tight, it's misery and cold feet. It's a trade of better fit vs colder feet.

[@andygustafson1]

@@ALinsdau thank you for the reply

[@johnlewis7476]

Awesome video. I have one question, would you recommend these boots for wide feet? thanks.

[@ALinsdau]

Yes - I have wide feet and they work for me. I had to upsize to a 46 so my feet didn't get pinched in the footbox, though.

[@johnlewis7476]

@@ALinsdauThank you, Aaron. That really helps. Best wishes.

[@DennyMelanson1]

Great vid! Have you had any experience with the Scarpa Mont Blanc Pro GTX and how do they compare?

[@ALinsdau]

I tried the Scarpas on at the store more than once but they didn't fit my foot as well. I have a wide foot, so it's an issue. They weigh within ~6 grams, so the comparison comes down to fit. Find stores and try both and try with the kick test. The first kick shouldn't touch your toe, the 2nd may hit, the 3rd definitely will hit. If the first kick hits, the boots are too short.

[@DennyMelanson1]

@@ALinsdau Alright, I've heard they tend to fit narrower feet, so makes sense. Currently preparing to do Mount Columbia in Alberta next summer and need something more substantial than my Solomon 4D's so thank you for your insight, it's really helpful!

[@ALinsdau]

@@DennyMelanson1 You're welcome. Please send a trip report - I'd love to hear about it.

[@DennyMelanson1]

@@ALinsdau Will do. Keep up the good work!

[@davidfantle6721]

I have both of these. The Scarpas are narrower in the toes, and lower toe box, so tended to blister the tops of my toes on descent (but I have curved, not straight toes). They have more ankle flexibility, and a better rocker for hiking/approach, but likely won't front-point as well as the Cube's.

[@33mattuska86]

When you want to unlace boot pull on that loop you said don't know what it was and it will pop up for you

[@ALinsdau]

Thanks!

[@chrisgroove]

What's the difference between the new 2019 and the discounted model?

[@ALinsdau]

The 2019 version is even lighter which is pretty crazy.

[@memphisreines4058]

Can these be used in Summer? How much insulation do they have?

[@ALinsdau]

They're a great summer climbing boot. I found my toes got cold standing around at 5º F (-15º C). Once I started moving, I was good. But those aren't summer temps.

[@josephjacobs6616]

I’m looking at these boots for a mountaineering trip to Peru south cordillera 6000m peaks . I have wide feet also . How long is the break in time? Thx for a great informative video 🙏🏻

[@ALinsdau]

Whoa...these boots won't cut it on a 6000m peak! You really need double boots or you'll freeze your toes off. Check out the La Sportiva Baruntse: amzn.to/37WdjMC

[@josephjacobs6616]

You’re correct . I’m now looking at the G2 SM Double boots .

[@juliawale4294]

in what temps would you use it for ice climbing?

[@ALinsdau]

Down to 0ºF (-17ºC) with heavier socks. Any colder than that and they're not adequate.

[@MehmetTahta]

Dear Aaron, I am looking for solid boots for summer mountaineering up to 5200 meters. I was planning to get la sportiva nepal cube, but I assume it doesn't a good choice for summer mountaineering activities? I plan to purchase double-boot like La Sportiva G2 SM for winter activities and stick to La Sportiva Trango Tower for summer. What do you think? Or should I use nepal cube for summer too. Thanks for the videos btw. It all enlightening for us. Cheers

[@ALinsdau]

The Cube would be very cold for a 5200m peak. I used the La Sportiva Baruntse double boots on Elbrus in late summer. My feet were cool to start on summit night. The cubes would've been uncomfortably cold.

[@MehmetTahta]

@@ALinsdau we have only 1 mountain which has 5200meters. We ll have camp at 4200 and go for summit to 5200. I was planning to use this boots for "summer" mountaineering activities. Do you think this is a good choice for summer activities? Or this boots should be used for winter conditions.

[@ALinsdau]

Cubes are summer or cool temp boots. Definitely not for cold.

[@gregvanduzer8937]

how do you do the surgeons knott

[@ALinsdau]

Surgeons knot: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hHqUn2p-qt1sjZo

[@bobwengr2744]

My boots are giving me blisters on my heels. I'll try to use the extra tongue. A hug from Brazil.

[@ALinsdau]

Let us know how it goes.

[@totof212121]

Hi Aaron, I really enjoy your channel. So I have La Sportiva Nepal Cube GTX 44 size and I was wondering which bidding system would fit the best. What binfing systeme you would recommend, the G22 CRAMP-O-MATIC EVO or the NEW-MATIC EVO? Thank you

[@EduardoBach01]

07:24 this pull strap is to undo the D-links ;)

[@ALinsdau]

Thanks!

[@stalefish7643]

Comfortable shoes for a few hours then the heelpain start appearing and soon excruciating pain. No wounds, just tender as hell. Dont know why. Limped for a week after a two days wear on rock and some snow/ica. Happends every time I wear them. They are now for selling.

[@ALinsdau]

Good to note - thanks for sharing.

[@valdius85]

Your feet is perfectrly average. You just need a foot-shape shoes, like Topo and so on :)

[@ALinsdau]

True!

[@timothyahernRoxyCat]

What? A 12.5 isn't a shoe. At 12 you leave the realm of "shoe" and enter the semantic space of diving fin. Frankly, I don't know a single dolphin who would say that a 12.5 is a "shoe."

[@ALinsdau]

Thanks for watching.