Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra HT

We tested theScarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra HT, one of Scarpa's latest creations that continues the legacy of the original Ribelle Run while maintaining its essence. This model has been released in two different versions:

• ST version: designed with greater lug prominence for greasier terrains.
• HT version: this is the model we are testing. A shoe with integrated BOA Fit System technology, a system that helps us noticing an adjustable and very precise fit.

A trail running shoe that is a renewed version of the model used by great runners like Manu Merillas or Antonio Martinez, but with a modification of the upper. An upper that has the Wrap360, which is the placement of the BOA in a higher part than normal, which achieves greater support. A system that comes from the world of cycling and is here to stay.

Discover the complete catalog of Scarpa trail running shoes.

They have been tested both in the French Alps in greasy and compact terrain of our territory, and the first impression they gave us is that they mold perfectly to the foot thanks to BOA's Li2 dial that achieves a perfect fit of both the heel and the foot as a whole.

Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra HT Profile

Designed for both training and competition for a wide range of runners, they can be used by light weight runners to more muscular runners.

They are fast and technical shoes, for hard and technical terrain, with a sole whose lugs are strategically placed to obtain a great grip both uphill and downhill.

A mountain running shoe for short and medium distance and, above all, for alpine terrain, for a very technical terrain. Scarpa DNA, the Italian brand makes it clear that it maintains its ideals. A great ally for use in terrain with many edges, rocks and steep slopes.

Best trail running shoes 2023

What we liked best about the Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra HT

What I liked the most was the Presa sole, Scarpa's 4 mm outsole, which provides spectacular grip on all types of terrain, but especially on rocks, which is where this model gets the most out of its performance. Here lies the big difference with the ST version, a model for greasier terrain, which has a different distribution to the HT and its lugs are 5mm. In the HT, the 4mm heel is more than enough. A heel that offers a feeling that is neither too soft nor too hard.

Another big plus point is the BOA system of the upper that achieves a very precise fit, even wrapping the heel part of the Achilles heel, adjusting to perfection. We tie the shoe by turning the dial and release it by turning in the opposite direction. A very fine adjustment that is appreciated in the most difficult terrain.

This fastening system improves both the stability of the ankle, getting a perfect set, and increases the stride speed.

One of the strong points is the reinforcement on the toe, offering great protection against accidental kicks against stones, as well as on the sides. These reinforcements in the areas of greatest abrasion make for a brutal adaptation to the terrain for which they are designed. A conventional EVA compound is used in the midsole.

Opportunities for improvement of the Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra HT

The increased weight of the shoe, 30 grams, due to the BOA system can be a handicap when using the model in competition for an elite runner, since that added weight can condition a race in which many times the first positions are decided by seconds. However, in wet terrain this system can be better than laces as they absorb water and in the end the total weight of the shoe can be greater than with the BOA.

The extra 2 mm of rubber underfoot adds a few more grams to the weight of the shoe compared to the original version of the Scarpa Ribelle Run.

Which trail running shoes are similar to the Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra HT?

adidas Terrex Agravic BOA

La Sportiva Jackal II BOA

Altra Mont Blanc Boa

New Balance Fresh Foam Hierro BOA

Final conclusions of the Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra HT

In summary, a trail running shoe that looks very good for runners who move through technical terrain both in training and competition with a great fit thanks to the BOA system and a spectacular grip thanks to its Presa outsole.

This model from the Italian company offers us many possibilities to discover new training areas with the security of having the work behind a brand like Scarpa.