FEATURES
The Meindl Jorasse GTX boot is relatively lightweight at 1852g (pair, size 46) but it still packs in all the essential features of a winter boot. So you get a Gore-Tex waterproof lining with an upper made from a mix of synthetic materials and leather without too much stitching, and a good full rubber rand. There is also a double tongue construction, an ankle cuff gaiter and a Vibram sole unit with well-spaced lugs and good stiffness. 5/5
FIT
You get a wider size range with the Meindl Jorasse GTX than some others, with men’s sizes from 6-12 and women’s from 3½-8. This has more volume than some others, so there is extra room around the toes and it does not feel quite so close and precise on the foot. This boot may fit those with slightly chunkier feet best. 5/5
COMFORT
The Meindl Jorasse GTX provides very soft cushioned contact with the foot, which is enhanced by a double tongue that is very soft on the top of the foot. The very spacious toe box is a joy for those who like to wiggle their toes or wear chunky socks to stay warm. The ankle cuff remains comfortable when flexing the foot while being supportive, and the soft ankle gaiter is also very comfortable. 5/5
IN USE
The Meindl Jorasse GTX feels more spacious than the Scarpa Manta Pro, which we also looked at, but it feels very slightly less precise on the foot, so is a little more ‘clumpy’, even though it is lighter. This slight difference in feel has an impact when scrambling over rockier ground. The ankle cuff gaiter helps keep grit or snow out of the boot, which is useful. A crampon with a heel clip can be fitted for use on ice, and on snow the deep lugs and heel breast are ideal. 4/5
VALUE
The price has remained the same as last year, so this has to be reasonable value as the performance is so good. 4/5
VERDICT
The Meindl Jorasse GTX is a superb general winter hillwalking boot that is lighter than some, but also very slightly less precise during foot placement. 4.6/5
Review by Graham Thompson
First published in Trail magazine January 2017