Why we stock Kayland at Crib Goch Outdoor
Kayland takes care of the technically capable mountain footwear in our range, they're built around the understanding of how a boot moves with the foot, which matters just as much as what materials it is made from. This means the boots are engineered to support natural movement patterns rather than constraining the foot in a rigid structure, allowing each boot to perform well on technical terrain whilst remaining comfortable, which is harder to achieve than either of those things independently.
The Cross Mountain GTX in particular has developed a strong following among serious mountain walkers and mountaineers who want a capable boot at a price point below the most expensive European brands. The Gore-Tex membrane and Vibram outsole combination and Kaylands attention to construction quality reflects over fifty years of Italian mountain footwear heritage, is one of the reasons we choose to stock them on our shelves.
What we stock and why we chose it
The Cross Mountain GTX is the most technical boot in our Kayland range and the model that is most popular with our customers, it is a full mountaineering boot with Gore-Tex waterproofing, a stiff sole suited to crampon use and a construction suited for technical alpine terrain and demanding winter conditions found in the UK mountains. Available in men's and women's versions across multiple colourways.
The Grand Tour GTX is a three-season hiking boot, it is a well-constructed Gore-Tex boot suited to long mountain days in Eryri with enough support and sole stiffness for technical paths without being as rigid as the Cross Mountain. Available in men's and women's versions. The Miura GTX is the low shoe option a lighter, more flexible shoe that is suited to less demanding terrain and shorter days where a full boot would be excessive. Available in men's and women's versions.
Not sure which Kayland boot suits your planned activity? Come in to our stores in Llanberis or Beddgelert and we will fit and advise appropriately.
Kayland Boots FAQs
Where is Kayland from and where are the boots made? +
Kayland is an Italian brand, founded in 1971 by Giovanni Bittante and now owned by Novation S.p.A. with design and development rooted in the Italian Alpine tradition. Manufacturing takes place in Europe, including in Romania. The brand is Italian in design, heritage, and technical approach athough not all models are manufactured in Italy. This is common across the mid-premium European outdoor footwear market, where Italian design is combined with EU manufacturing to maintain quality standards at accessible price points.
Are Kayland boots waterproof? +
Yes. All Kayland boots in our range use a Gore-Tex membrane that provides a fully waterproof and breathable layer of protection. In practice this means the boots keep feet dry in sustained rain, wet grass, stream crossings, and the consistently wet conditions that can define walking and hiking days in Wales. Gore-Tex is one of the most tested and trusted waterproof membranes in outdoor footwear, providing lasting waterproof performance across the life of the boot when properly maintained.
Are Kayland boots suitable for wide feet? +
Kayland boots are generally built on a Regular to Narrower last when compared to some competing brands. Independent reviewers note that some models can feel narrow across the midfoot, and sizing up half a size to a full size can be beneficial for those with a wider foot. If you have wider feet or have previously found Italian-lasted boots narrow, trying before buying is particularly important. Come in to our stores in Llanberis or Beddgelert and we will fit the boots properly (with your hiking socks on) Free of charge, before you commit to a purchase.
What is the difference between the Kayland Cross Mountain, Grand Tour and Miura? +
The three models cover different activity levels and terrain demands. The Miura GTX is the lightest and most flexible option better suited to easier trails and day walking where a full boot would be excessive weight and stiffness. The Grand Tour GTX is a substantial three-season hiking boot suited to long mountain days, technical paths and multiday routes where ankle support and sole stiffness matter more. The Cross Mountain GTX is the most technical option, built for mountaineering and demanding alpine terrain with a stiffer sole suited to crampon use and the construction needed for serious winter and high altitude conditions. Choose the Cross Mountain for mountaineering and winter mountain use, the Grand Tour for regular demanding hiking, and the Miura for lighter walking and day use.
Can I try Kayland boots in store in North Wales? +
Yes. We stock Kayland across our stores in Llanberis and Beddgelert. For technical mountain boots in particular, fitting in person is highly recommended. The correct fit in a mountaineering or serious hiking boot requires assessing heel lift, toe room on descents and lateral support with a load, none of which can be reliably assessed from a size guide. Come in with the socks you plan to walk in and we will fit the boots properly before you buy free of charge.