It don't. I've had them for a short while and am really frustrated that I bought them. They son't have any torsion rigidity what so ever. If you step in some soggy ground and get your toe under water up to where the laces start you will get wet immediately. Non gore tex shoes sometimes sell on the point that they will dry faster than the gore tex version. That might be true but these non tex shoes takes forever to dry. I would sum this model up as a very soft and comfortable shoe for short walks without backpack. If you are looking for a hiking shoes this is not the one. If you are looking for a strict climbing shoe (but only for easy climbing) this might be a good choice.

Yes you can. I've run the screes of the Cuillins many times in them.

I would say no. Going down hill they are very weak. The foot will slip all the way to the front even though you tight them down.

scree needs high top shoes, unless you like rocks in them.

ha! why not? :D

it's La Sportiva, what did you expect? :D

I like it. And it's never a bad idea to wear bright colors in the back country (unless there are bears around, then don't.)