Outdoor Gear Glossary

MGF Suspension stands for Mountain Guide Flex suspension and is designed to deliver a comfortable ride for backpack loads in extreme environments for extended periods of time during outdoor activities.

...MGF Suspension (as seen in some The North Face backpacks)

The midsole of a walking boot provides a cushion for the feet. It is usually made from foam or rubber and is sandwiched between the sole and the upper. It is the hidden component in boot manufacture. It is one of the most important components, especially considering each step generates a force equal to 120% of your body weight.

Because it is hidden, some manufacturers make great compromises in the midsole in order to make their walking and hiking boots more instantly comfortable and cheaper. This is often considered a shortcut in production that might show a reduced performance of the boot.

Scarpa, like many of the walking boots in our range, uses several midsoles in its footwear range - the choice being dictated by the requirements of each of the boots. Each of the Scarpa midsoles is graded to offer differential flex characteristics down the length of the boot whilst giving maximum lateral support.

The midsoles are also graded by size to ensure constant performance characteristics in each walking boot size. The method by which midsoles are attached to the upper is critical to the performance and durability of the walking boot. Most manufacturers simply bond or staple the midsole. Scarpa "Blake" sew the upper and midsole together on all their hill and mountain boots. Not only does this improve the strength of the boot but it is critical if ever the boot is to be resoled.

For those more adventurous hikers and climbers, please bear in mind that the stiffness of the midsole is also a critical factor if you plan to use crampons with your boots. See 'Performance flex', 'Proflex', 'Pro-Fibre' and 'Pro-Flex XT' for more information on Scarpa midsoles.

Some tent suppliers provide a minimum and maximum weight. The minimimum weight basically refers to the contents without such items as the peg bag and certain poles, and used with just minimum pegs. This is often used by outdoor people seeking to minimise their pack weight and who typically benefit from ultra lightweight tents.