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Salewa Raven Combi wearing out

PostPosted: Sat Jul 21, 2012 7:53 pm
by Andrew Rankine
I have a pair of size 12 Salewa Raven Combis, which I bought in March. I have done maybe 140 miles in them since then (a few break-in hikes in Arizona, about 8-10 peaks in Europe, and a couple hikes in the Olympics in Washington). They have been showing quite a bit of wear from what I would consider a small amount of wear. The sole on the toe of the boot is nearly completely worn through, the rubber rand is peeling, the lace guides at the bottom that pinch the laces are bent, and a few of the treads have broken off of the sole. I do not know if this is normal, but I spent $300 on these boots so as a student I don't have a ton of $300's lying around to buy boots with...
Is this normal?
Is there a boot that could perform better?
Thanks.

Re: Salewa Raven Combi wearing out

PostPosted: Sun Jul 22, 2012 10:42 am
by Alex Wood
It seems like there have been quite a few issues with that boot. Salewa is revamping that line for next season, so hopefully there are some improvements in line. I have lots of friends that have used other Salewa boots and haven't had an issue with them. I work at a gear shop in Flagstaff and we sell Salewa's and have never had a pair returned. I would try the Rapaces if I were you, maybe those will hold up better. I would also warrantythe boots, it is pretty easy. If you don't want to do it yourself, pm me and I could help you warranty them through our shop. If you want to move away from Salewa, I would recommend the Scarpa Triolet or the Charmoz.

Re: Salewa Raven Combi wearing out

PostPosted: Mon Jul 23, 2012 1:56 am
by Dane1
I have a pair and have been very pleased with them, But I don't use them as a hiking boot. I've been using them as a lwt alpine climbing boot. In that role they certainly last as long or longer than the La Sportiva Trango Evo. LWT mtn boots are made to alst forever. You give up some durability to save weight on any of them. It sounds like yours are "well worn". :lol:

I do agree with Alex. If they are really falling apart and it sounds like they are..... I'd bet Salewa would like to see them, keep you as a customer and make you a return customer.

Re: Salewa Raven Combi wearing out

PostPosted: Mon Jul 23, 2012 5:34 am
by Andrew Rankine
Thanks guys. I was in Romania when the boots started to fall apart, so I had to deal with them for a few more days on the trail. I bought them for some technical ascents in the Tatras and for a couple other country highpoints, but ended up doing more hiking in them than expected...I could only take one pair of boots to Europe.
Thanks Alex, I will warranty them. I do appreciate the offer, what gear shop are you at? I'll have to make an effort to stop in there if I haven't already. I contacted Salewa, but I can't be without boots because I'm bagging a peak or hiking every other day in the Olympics in Washington for now. When I get back to the heat in Phoenix I'll send them off.
While in Slovakia I noticed the Condor, which is a similar Salewa boot with a Vibram Teton sole and leather instead of synthetic. The Salewa rep I talked to said it would be out in the US next spring so I'm stoked for that.

Re: Salewa Raven Combi wearing out

PostPosted: Sun Aug 05, 2012 5:59 pm
by Dane1
I looked at the leather version this week at OR. It is heavier and I doubt any more durable imo. Fabric boots and lwt boots in particular aren't going to last forever. Make sure you are being realistic in your expectations.