SQUIRREL_13238023
Three Things To Know:
- Outstanding out-of-the-box comfort with no break-in period required
- £190 at time of writing
- Lightweight and grippy on dry terrain, it’s best suited to casual walks rather than technical hikes
Our Rating:
Comfort and Fit
Waterproofing and Weather Resistance
Durability and Materials
Weight and Flexibility
Grip and Traction
Check availability at Cotdworld Outdoor and Ellis Brigham
The Scarpa Cyrus 2 GTX is a significant upgrade from the original Cyrus GTX, designed for casual hiking, countryside rambles and urban use. It preserves the comfortable fit of the first iteration, but with several improvements to make it a move versatile option.
I tested these hiking boots across a variety of conditions, including a camping trip with multiple day long hikes which were, luckily, sunny throughout. Then again back home in Bristol woodland under rainy conditions and everyday urban wear.
Comfort and Fit
The Cyrus 2 GTX definitely lives up to Scarpa's straight out of the box comfort claim. From the very first wear, the shoe delivers a cloud‑like comfort that lasts over multi‑day hikes without the need for a break in period.
The redesigned ergonomic padding around the ankle and tongue offers a noticeably soft yet supportive feel around the foot, ensuring all‑day support and no pressure point. I found the boots true to size and the broadened forefoot (an upgrade on the Cyrus 2 model) provides extra space without compromising foot security.
I particularly like the padded collar and supportive ankle cuff, which stabilised my foot and reduced friction. Even on muddy terrain I experienced no blisters or rubbing. The Cyrus 2 GTX Mid proves to be an exceptionally comfortable, well‑fitted option for a range of hikes.
Waterproofing and Weather Resistance
I tested the boots over several dry days on a camping trip, followed by a particularly wet walk closer to home. Over the course of testing, the Scarpa Cyrus 2 GTX Mid proved impressively reliable. The updated GORE‑TEX ePE membrane (now PFAS-free for better environmental credentials) combined with the water-resistant nubuck upper kept water out whilst maintaining breathability. Even when hiking through muddy paths and puddles, moisture beaded and rolled off the surface, and my feet remained dry and comfortable throughout varied weather conditions.
That said, after prolonged use in sunny weather, I found the boots to be slightly less breathable than some other models. While this wasn't an issue for occasional hikes, it suggests these are better suited to casual and moderate trekking rather than sustained use in warm conditions.
Durability and Materials
Constructued with sturdy materials like durable Nubuck leather, reinforced stitching and a solid outsole, the Scarpa Cyrus 2 GTX Mid is designed for regular trail use. Importantly, Scarpa has responded to feedback from the previous model by reducing the number of stitch lines in an effort to improve long-term durability.
That being said, my experience was mixed. Despite the sturdy feel out of the box, I noticed fraying along some seams just a few days into testing. While this didn’t impact the boot’s performance during my hikes, it raises some questions about long-term resilience, especially if you plan to wear them frequently or in harsher conditions.
Weight and Flexibility
One of my first observations upon trying the Scarpa Cyrus 2 GTX was the balance between lightweight comfort and dependable support. At approximately 360g per boot (I'm a UK size 5), they're noticably lighter than many mid-cut boots, which makes them great for long walks and travel.
The new EVA midsole (an upgrade from the PU sole) adds to the boot's overall comfort and flexibility. It provides responsive cushioned support and a springy feel.
Grip and Traction
The Cyrus 2 GTX features Scarpa's own Presa outsole made with a SpearGum compound that claims to deliver three times the abrasion resistance of standard rubber. The lug pattern has also been redesigned with a more aggressive heel brake and self-cleaning treads.
In testing, the boots delivered dependable grip on dry trails, grassy slopes, and loose gravel. I felt confident walking downhill, with the heel brake biting nicely into softer terrain. However, on wet surfaces (particularly smooth, wet pavements) I found traction less reliable. Because of this, I’d recommend these more for casual walking and light trails rather than technical or mountainous routes.
Value for Money
At around £190, the Cyrus 2 GTX Mid offers excellent comfort, waterproofing and walkability. However, if durability is a top concern, other options with full-grain leather uppers and fewer seams may offer better long-term value.
Sustainability
Alongside the PFAS-free GORE-TEX ePe membrane, Scarpa have redeisgned the boot to be resoleable This update significantly increases the potential lifespan of the boot and reduces landfill waste, which adds to eco-credentials.
Should You Buy It?
Overall, I found the Cyrus 2 GTX Mid to be light, nimble and extremely comfortable without sacrificing support. For casual walks and occasional weekend hikes, the Scarpa Cyrus 2 GTX Mid definitely ticks a lot of boxes. While I do have reservations around the durability for heavy use the combination of comfort, waterproofing and lighter weight makes it a great choice for moderate walkers seeking a versatile, all-round hiking boot.
SQUIRREL_13238023
- Find more in our guide to the best walking boots.
Never Miss a Review
Sign up to our free Tried & Tested newsletter for the latest product recommendations straight from the trails.
