I have been wearing Scarpa Mantas (pro?) for a few years now, other than the obvious achy feet after a long day that you get in B2 boots I have had no problems.
After a recent trip to the lakes, other than realising I am incredibly unfit and finding sheep are really strange animals, I have had really bad rubbing of the top / outside edge my fourth toe on my right foot. My left is fine, but I have noticed that I can feel my toes a bit more when going down hill, so coming to the conclusion that my feet (foot?) has changed shape.
I have had a look in the outdoor shops in Ambleside and Keswick while we were there but every single shop sells exactly the same thing.... Gore-Tex Jackets, Down Jackets, Scarpa boots and La Sportiva boots..... Its scary how alike each shop is! I didn't try any on as I am not in a position at the moment to buy any, but my understanding is both Scarpa and La Sportiva have narrow(er) toe boxes?
So firstly does anybody have any recommendation of a B1/B2 boot with a wide toe box that is suitable for 2/3 season mountaineering - something I can wear most of the year, most of the time without destroying my feet more than they are already. I have heard that Mammut has wider toe boxes? I assume I wont be able to stretch the toe box of the Manta Pro?
And secondly, does anybody know of any shops that sell boots other than Scarpa and La Sportiva, ideally as close to Birmingham / Midlands as possible.