SCARPA review: what it is, pricing and who it's for
Italian maker of ski boots, climbing shoes, hiking and mountaineering footwear for serious outdoor use.
In short: Italian maker of ski boots, climbing shoes, hiking and mountaineering footwear for serious outdoor use. Best for: Skiers, climbers, mountaineers and hikers.
What is SCARPA?
SCARPA is a footwear company based in Asolo, Italy. It makes boots and shoes for ski touring and resort skiing, rock climbing, mountaineering, hiking, trail running and everyday outdoor wear.
In North America you can buy directly from SCARPA's own online store (us.scarpa.com), as well as from outdoor retailers. Products range from casual sneakers like the Mojito to technical ski touring boots and high-altitude mountaineering boots.
Key features
- Ski boots for alpine touring, resort skiing and telemark, plus spare parts.
- Climbing shoes for bouldering, sport, multi-pitch and indoor climbing.
- Mountaineering boots from general use up to high-altitude and ice climbing.
- Hiking, backpacking and fast-and-light hiking shoes and boots.
- Trail running and approach shoes.
- Lifestyle shoes such as the Mojito range.
- Kids' range for ages about 8 to 13.
- E-gift cards on the official store.
Plans and pricing
| Plan | Price / limit | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Lifestyle (e.g. Mojito) | From about $199 | Casual outdoor shoes |
| Climbing shoes (e.g. Instinct VSR LV) | About $219 | Performance climbing shoes |
| Ski touring boots (e.g. F1 RS, Maestrale RS) | About $849 to $999 | Technical ski boots |
| Shipping | Free over $99 | Ground shipping to the Lower 48 states |
| Returns | 30 days | New, unused items; prepaid label in the Lower 48 with an $8 restocking fee |
| Warranty | 1 year | Limited warranty on materials and workmanship, original owner |
Prices are from the US store (USD) on 15 Nov 2026 and change with sales; the European store lists prices in euros.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide range covering skiing, climbing, mountaineering and hiking.
- Long-established Italian maker focused on technical footwear.
- Free US ground shipping over $99.
- Prepaid return label for US Lower 48 returns.
Cons
- Technical boots are expensive, often $800 or more.
- $8 restocking fee is deducted from US returns, and original shipping is not refunded.
- Warranty is only 1 year and excludes resoled or modified products.
- Fit matters a lot for boots, which is harder to judge when buying online.
Who it's for
A strong option for skiers, climbers and mountaineers who need technical footwear. Casual walkers on a budget can find cheaper shoes elsewhere.
Frequently asked questions
What is SCARPA?
SCARPA is a footwear company based in Asolo, Italy. It makes boots and shoes for ski touring and resort skiing, rock climbing, mountaineering, hiking, trail running and everyday outdoor wear.
How much does SCARPA cost?
Prices are from the US store (USD) on 15 Nov 2026 and change with sales; the European store lists prices in euros.
Who is SCARPA best for?
A strong option for skiers, climbers and mountaineers who need technical footwear. Casual walkers on a budget can find cheaper shoes elsewhere.
What are the downsides of SCARPA?
Main drawbacks: Technical boots are expensive, often $800 or more. $8 restocking fee is deducted from US returns, and original shipping is not refunded. Warranty is only 1 year and excludes resoled or modified products. Fit matters a lot for boots, which is harder to judge when buying online.
What are some alternatives to SCARPA?
Other outdoor & sports gear options we cover include Lems Shoes, GRAYL, Big Agnes, Sea to Summit and Stanley 1913.
Head-to-head comparisons
Other outdoor & sports gear options
Lems Shoes
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GRAYL
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Big Agnes
Outdoor & Sports GearColorado-based maker of lightweight tents, sleeping bags and sleeping pads for backpacking and camping.
Sea to Summit
Outdoor & Sports GearAustralian outdoor brand known for dry bags, sleeping pads and compact camp kitchen gear.
Stanley 1913
Outdoor & Sports GearInsulated tumblers, bottles, lunch boxes and camp gear, with lifetime cover on stainless-steel products.
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This summary is based on SCARPA's official website, pricing page and public documentation as of November 15, 2026. Prices and features change, so confirm the details on the official site. Some links on this site may be affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure.