I've used plastic boots for many years, and it's doubly important to get a good fit right from the start, because for all intents and purposes, there's no break in. The linings compact a tiny bit, but not much. The best way to fit them is to go to the store in mid-afternoon with your own socks and sockliners, and try on 2 or 3 different models. They each will fit differently. Wear them for at least a couple of hours in the store, and by then you should have a good idea whether they'll fit.
When I was buying plastic boots, the Scarpa Inverno (and it's Inverno, not Inferno) fit the best. I was hoping it would, as it's been the gold standard in expedition mountaineering for many years. My Invernos are the generation before the current all black model. As for being comfortable over a long day - I have no complaints. My longest days in them would be something like Shasta from Bunny Flats as a day hike. The third year I had them I did Rainier from Camp Shurman and down to White River Campground - about 4K' up, and 7K' down, and probably around 16 miles? I never get blisters with them. They're a bit beat up now, and on their third pair of laces, but have been with me on lots of adventures.
In any case - while double leathers are quite warm, if you want the warmest, get plastic. And get the ones which fit - not necessarily the ones on sale.
Last edited by KevinR; 10/13/11 02:59 PM.
