Pair of special lightweight double clinker nailed climbing boots used on the 1933 Everest expedition

Pair of special lightweight double clinker nailed climbing boots, made by Robert Lawrie Ltd., from equipment used on the 1933 Everest expedition by Sir Jack Longland

When planning for the 1933 Everest expedition, a lot of attention was paid to finding the best high altitude climbing boots. This is critical to try to avoid getting frostbitten feet, as had happened on previous exhibitions. These boots were handmade by Robert Lawrie who was commissioned to make over 30 pairs of boots for the expedition. Lawrie was at the beginning of his career making climbing boots and this opportunity increased his profile in the mountaineering community. Notably, the boots for the successful 1953 expedition were also made by Robert Lawrie. The hobnails on the soles of the boots provide vital extra grip on snow or ice. To make sure the sole itself was well insulated, it was made of two layers of different thicknesses of leather and a layer of asbestos in the middle . This type of climbing boot was worn by the Western members of the expedition. Sherpas and local porters had a different heavier boot also made by Lawrie.