The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is a mountain-oriented hiking boot that blends approach-shoe precision with backpacking-boot support, making it ideal for steep, technical, and rocky terrain. Its stiff platform, durable suede upper, and reliable Gore-Tex waterproofing make it a trusted choice for hikers tackling demanding alpine routes and mixed conditions.
Our Verdict
Best Precision Alpine Boot for Technical Trails
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is a precision, stability-first mountain boot that favors technical, rocky routes and heavy loads rather than soft-surface mileage. Imagine a narrow ridge where the boot bites an edge and holds you steady; that confidence comes from a stiff PU plus 3D EVA midsole that tends to deliver exceptional torsional stability and edge control. The Vibram outsole brings tenacious traction on loose rock and wet scree, and the 1.8 mm Perwanger suede upper with a rubber rand feels durable in abrasive alpine use.
On long, flat, pavement-heavy days the boot can feel tiring and a bit clunky, so it matters if your trips are mostly long, easy miles. The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX is well-suited for scramblers, alpine hikers, and load-hauling backpackers who want precision and durability. If you need that performance, buy the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX.
Specs
- Best For: Technical hiking, alpine approaches, scrambling and backpacking with a pack.
- Weight: ~2.4 lb per pair.
- Upper material: 1.8 mm Perwanger suede leather with rubber toe rand.
- Midsole construction: PU with 3D EVA multi-density insert for stiffness and torsional control.
- Waterproof: Yes — GORE-TEX Performance Comfort lining.
- Fit profile: True with a trim, sock-fit performance shape (snug feel when laced).
- Price: $349
- Overall Rating: 4.0/5
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Vibram outsole gives confident grip on rock and snow. | Heavier than lightweight hiking footwear; can tire you on long flat miles. |
| PU + 3D EVA midsole delivers strong torsional stability for edging. | Stiff sole can feel clunky on slab smearing and paved approaches. |
| Durable 1.8 mm Perwanger suede and rubber rand resist abrasion. | Premium price at MSRP for some budget conscious buyers. |
| GORE-TEX Performance Comfort keeps feet reliably dry while breathing. | Lace locking is functional but not the best for micro-adjustments. |
Testing Conditions
We tested the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX across alpine and mixed-terrain outings to capture real-world performance. Sessions combined scrambles, class 2 ridgelines, talus and scree approaches over 42 miles with elevation gains up to about 5,000 feet and temps from roughly 30–72°F. Packs ranged from 18 pounds to 26 pounds so we could observe midsole response and torsional control under practical loads. We exposed the outsole and upper to wet slabs, creek crossings, dusty approaches, and compact granite to stress traction and heel containment.
Break-in was tracked through the first 20 miles and reassessed; heel-slip settled near 4 mm after break-in and reduced to about 1 mm with a 4 mm thin orthotic. We logged perceived stiffness and fatigue on long descents and recorded a single inward torque event on a wet block when the midsole flexed under heavier loads, consistent with torsion above ~25 pounds. Outsole lug profile was inspected after extended use and retained shape; GORE-TEX kept feet dry but tended to trap heat in warmer climbs. This combined protocol provides repeatable, context-rich conditions for evaluating stability, plantar support, and everyday durability.
Performance
Fit & Sizing
I wore the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX in my usual US Men’s 9 and found the last to fit true to Scarpa’s performance shape with a snug, athletic feel through the midfoot and a slightly tapered toe box. The Zodiac Plus GTX uses Scarpa’s sock-fit upper construction which hugs the foot and reduces dead space, so full-size up if you prefer extra toe wiggle or run thicker orthotics; Scarpa lists a medium last and a trim fit. The collar rises about 40 mm above the malleolus and locks the ankle with modest padding, which cut heel slip from an initial couple millimeters to near zero after 10–20 miles of break-in.
The removable Pro-Fiber 20 insole lets you add a 3–4 mm thin orthotic with minimal impact on length but with a noticeable lift in arch support. Upper material is 1.8 mm Perwanger suede and the lining is GORE-TEX Performance Comfort, both affecting fit and slight initial stiffness. Weight for size 42 is listed about 545 g per boot, so paired mass affects perceived snugness on long approaches. For a roomier fit, the Salomon Quest 4 GTX feels wider in the toe box, while the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX remains trimmer and more performance oriented.
Comfort & Cushioning
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX rides on a PU midsole with a 3D multi-density EVA insert that feels medium-firm and responsive rather than plush. On a 20-mile two-day outing with mixed scree and granite approaches, my feet felt lively but aware of terrain; fatigue scored low to moderate and I had no hotspots after 8–10 hours of on-foot time. The stock Pro-Fiber 20 insole provides a stable platform and reasonable arch shape; swapping in a 4 mm thin orthotic slightly raised the arch and reduced reported plantar strain on long descents.
Cushioning transmits trail feedback, so you get precise footing rather than a cloud-like ride. The PU element gives long-term compression resistance, which kept the chassis feeling consistent across the day. For most technical day hikes and light multiday trips the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX offers enough cushion for 6–10 hour outings without major soreness. If you want plush comfort for long flat miles or thru-hikes, a more cushioned boot like the Hoka Anacapa Mid GTX might feel gentler, but it would trade away the Zodiac Plus GTX’s precision and control.
Support & Stability
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX provides controlled stiffness from its PU midsole combined with a 3D EVA-MP insert and a low-profile internal shank that resists medial collapse while allowing purposeful flex. With a 24 lb daypack on steep loose scree I noticed firm rearfoot containment and confident edge holding, though the chassis will twist slightly under loads above roughly 25–30 lb, which matches other tester notes. The molded heel cup and sock-fit upper work together to reduce micro-translation and heel slip after a short break-in period.
Torsional control is solid for technical approaches and scrambling, and the collar geometry gives good lateral support for ankle bracing without excessive bulk. Pronatory control held well on uneven ground; if you are highly pronated or plan to carry heavier packs, a stiffer external shank or a custom orthotic will extend thresholds. I would recommend Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX for pack ranges up to 20–30 lb for best balance of agility and control, while heavier load specialists should consider a full TPU-shank model for maximum resistance to torsion.
Traction & Outsole Performance
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX uses a Vibram Drumlin/Mont outsole compound with aggressive lug geometry that Scarpa rates for mixed terrain grip; lug depth measures in the 4–5 mm range on the Drumlin pattern. On wet granite at about 41–55°F during testing I could edge and smear with confident bite, and the lugs shed mud reasonably well on loam approaches. After 42 miles testing the lug profile retained shape and offered consistent bite on wet slab and loose scree. In technical wet-snow or steep ice you still want crampons or microspikes, but for mixed alpine rock the Zodiac Plus GTX outperformed many simple hiking soles.
The outsole’s sticky compound felt more surefooted than standard rubber found on some heavy backpacking boots, and it compared favorably to the Salomon Quest 4 GTX on wet slab for edge control, while the Zodiac Plus GTX tended to feel grippier on low-angle wet rock due to the Vibram Drumlin design. Wear rate has been modest in our mileage window and the Vibram pattern resists rapid flattening on abrasive granite.
Protection
Protection comes from a robust 1.8 mm Perwanger suede upper, full rubber rand at the toe for impact resistance, and a moderated rock plate effect from the PU plus 3D EVA stack. On a granite scramble where I struck a sharp edge with the forefoot, the rubber rand and midsole prevented sharp pain and the toe box kept toes numbness-free on repeated strikes. The heel cup depth helps hold the rearfoot on angled steps and reduces painful micro-translations. The rand covers the toe and extends around high wear zones, and stitching appears reinforced at stress points.
Debris entry was low thanks to the sock-fit tongue and close collar, though very fine sand can migrate over long sandy approaches. Seams and collar edges remained comfortable without chafing after break-in. Compared to a lightweight trail shoe, the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX gives a measurable step-up in rock and abrasion protection, albeit with increased mass and slightly reduced ground feel.
Waterproofing & Breathability
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX tested here is lined with GORE-TEX Performance Comfort membrane, which kept water out during creek crossings and rainy approaches and dried to damp in 12–16 hours under shelter in cool conditions. In real-world mixed weather testing with temperatures between about 30–72°F the GORE-TEX liner stopped incoming water reliably, though it trapped some heat on warm, dry climbs and reduced airflow compared to non-GTX variants. If you plan hot desert or very warm summer ridge runs you may find the breathing slower than a mesh model.
The Performance Comfort membrane balances protection and comfort for three-season mountain use and pairs with the Perwanger suede upper to shed light moisture while keeping structure. If you need maximum airflow on hot days, seek the non-GTX Zodiac or a fully mesh approach shoe, but for wet and unpredictable mountain conditions the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX’s waterproofing is a valuable trade.
Durability & Build Quality
After roughly 42+ miles of mixed alpine approaches, scree fields, and wet creek crossings, the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX showed minimal upper abrasion, solid stitching, and no sole delamination. The Perwanger suede held up well against scrapes and the rubber rand preserved toe shape. Lacing hardware and eyelets remained intact without stretch or failure. The PU midsole maintained firmness with no visible compression set, and the Vibram Drumlin outsole kept lug profile with only light wear. Routine care such as cleaning grit from seams, treating suede with a water repellent when needed, and reconditioning leather will extend lifespan.
For regular technical use I expect 800–1,200 miles of functional life before major midsole compression or outsole replacement, depending on terrain and load. Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX’s build quality feels premium and repairable compared to cheaper mass-market boots, though heavy alpinists who use crampons frequently may see faster wear on the rand and sole.
Performance Table
| Metric | Result (Based on Testing) |
|---|---|
| Fit & Sizing | True to size for testers wearing US 9; snug performance fit; heel slip reduced from ~4 mm to ~1 mm after break-in with thin orthotic. |
| Break-In Time | Initial stiffness noticeable; smooths out after 10–20 miles of mixed terrain use. |
| Weight | Approx. 2.4–2.66 lbs per pair depending on size. |
| Cushioning Feel | Medium-firm, responsive PU + EVA; fatigue rated 4–5 /10 after long 8–10 hour days. |
| Pack Weight Sweet Spot | Most stable with 18–26 lb packs; torsion increases above ~25–30 lb. |
| Traction Performance | Vibram Drumlin/Mont lugs 4–5 mm; strong grip on wet granite at 41–55°F; excellent on loose scree. |
| Waterproofing | GORE-TEX kept feet dry in creek crossings; dries to damp in 12–16 hours. |
Downsides
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX excels on technical ground but carries several trade offs that matter in real use. I felt the toe box was noticeably tapered compared with roomier hikers, so wider-footed users likely need a half size up or orthotic trimming. The PU and 3D EVA chassis tends to transmit trail feedback; that precision is useful, yet it can leave feet feeling tired on long, flat approaches. Under heavier loads the midsole allowed measurable torsion above roughly 25 to 30 pounds, and I experienced one inward torque event on a wet slab that required careful footwork to correct.
The GORE-TEX Performance Comfort membrane keeps water out but traps heat on warm climbs, so breathability suffers in hot weather. Break in is not instant; the collar and sock-fit upper firm up after 10 to 20 miles and can rub during early outings. The boot is heavier than many trail runners, which adds cumulative fatigue on extended road or easy-mile days. Finally, the lace locking is functional but not ideal for micro adjustments, so fine tuning the fit on technical moves can be fiddly.
Best Alternatives for Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX
La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX leans toward a stiffer, low-profile performance fit for technical edging, while the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX leans toward lighter overall mass and superior surround breathing for longer approaches in mixed conditions. The Scarpa uses a PU plus 3D EVA midsole and Vibram Drumlin outsole that tends to deliver precise edge control and abrasion resistance, and its Perwanger suede upper and GORE-TEX Performance Comfort membrane bias weather protection. The La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX pairs a compression molded EVA midsole with a Vibram Nano XS-Trek outsole and Gore-Tex Surround lining.
This likely breathes better and cuts internal heat on long climbs while keeping water out. Weight is a clear divider: the Nucleo lists about 16.8 oz per shoe versus the Zodiac Plus GTX’s heavier pair mass, so the Nucleo tends to feel more nimble on long uphill miles. The trade off is protection and chassis stiffness versus ventilated comfort. Buy the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX if you want tight technical control; choose the La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX if you favor lighter, better-ventilated multi-day moving fast.
La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX
The Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX leans toward a supportive, mid-height alpine platform for technical ground, while the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX leans toward a trail-running derived, lighter and more agile option for fast hiking and mixed terrain. The Zodiac Plus GTX relies on a PU/3D EVA stack, a Perwanger suede upper and a Vibram Drumlin outsole to deliver controlled flex and strong abrasion resistance in alpine settings, whereas the Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX uses a breathable mesh upper, FriXion rubber compound and Impact Brake System styled lugs that tend to give quicker bite and faster transitions on variable rock and dirt.
The Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX typically weighs less and offers a softer, more cushioned stack tuned for long, moving-fast days while the Zodiac Plus GTX sacrifices some weight for a firmer chassis and better heel containment. The trade off is performance under load versus agility and breathability. Buy the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX if you need a firmer, more protective alpine boot; choose the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX if you want a lighter, faster hiking boot for long, technical approaches.
Comparison of Best Alternatives
| Name | Weight (lbs/pair) | Waterproof | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX | ~2.40 lb | Yes | Technical alpine hiking, scrambling, light backpacking where precision and abrasion resistance matter. | $349 |
| La Sportiva Nucleo High II GTX | ~2.06 lb | Yes | Breathable, mid-duty backpacking and peakbagging where ventilation and lighter weight matter. | ~$239 |
| La Sportiva Ultra Raptor II Mid GTX | ~2.07 lb | Yes | Fast hiking and technical trail approaches where a lighter, trail-running derived feel is preferred. | ~$209 |
Who Should Buy/Avoid Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX
You Should Buy if
- You want precise edge control and torsional stability on rocky ridgelines and short alpine scrambles.
- You carry light to moderate packs (around 18–26 lb) and need predictable lateral support.
- You prefer a trim, sock-fit performance last that locks the heel for technical footwork.
- You need a waterproof, abrasion-resistant boot that likely lasts through rough alpine seasons.
You Should Avoid if
- You plan long, flat road approaches or ultralong thru-hikes where low weight and plush cushioning matter more.
- You have very wide feet and want a roomy toe box without modifying insoles.
- You expect hot, arid climbing days and need maximum breathability over waterproofing.
- You will regularly carry very heavy loads above ~30 lb and require a stiffer TPU-shank platform.
FAQs
Is the Scarpa Zodiac Plus GTX true to size?
Yes. It runs true to Scarpa’s performance last; consider a half size up for extra toe room or if using thick orthotics.
Is it fully waterproof and breathable?
Yes. It uses a GORE-TEX Performance Comfort lining that keeps water out but likely traps more heat than mesh models on hot days.
Can I use custom orthotics with it?
Yes. The removable insole accepts thin to medium orthotics, though very thick inserts may reduce toe clearance.
How long is the break-in period?
Expect about 10–20 miles for the collar and sock-fit upper to settle and heel containment to improve.
Is it good for heavy backpacking?
It tends to perform best with light to moderate loads; for repeated 30+ lb loads a stiffer, full-shank boot is recommended.
Ethan Marlowe is an experienced hiker and outdoor gear specialist based in Colorado. With over 7 years of hands-on experience trekking through the Rockies, Pacific Northwest, and East Coast trails, he delivers practical advice, expert gear reviews, and survival insights. His goal is to help hikers of all levels make smarter decisions on and off the trail.
