Boots

Question answered... thanks!

Do you know if your going to be doing a lot of ice climbing on the course? If so you may want to get boots that would be compatible with full step in crampons (ones that have a front notch also). Also, you probably know already but wear them around a bunch before you go on your NOLS course to break them in. Another thing to think about is how warm they are. I took a NOLS mountaineering course 4 years ago and remember that those who had warmer boots were often happier. Both of those pairs you are looking at will keep your feet pretty dry and both are great brands. I'd think about what you anticipate to do with your new mountaineering knowledge gained, where and what do you want to climb after you take the course? Have fun, the Cascades are sooo amazing!