Approach shoes climbing review. best approach shoes of 2023.

Approach shoes climbing review 5. Apr 24, 2025 · Lightweight, runner-esque approach shoes appear comfortable and attractive on paper, but I gave the shoe 50/50 odds for staying in one piece. Unlike most approach shoes, the TX4 performs impressively well both for hiking and climbing. In this category, the Konseal’s closest competitor is the La Sportiva TX4. Evolv Men’s Cruzer Shoes. $170 (US) / £160 (UK) / €170 (EU) 395g / 14oz (men's) : 345g / 12oz (women's) Stiff-soled approach shoe. Approach shoes can feel nearly as cozy as hiking or trail running shoes, but we will often wear them to climb 5. (Interestingly, the marketing blurb The climber will need to determine the appropriate position on the hiking performance versus climbing performance spectrum, as the perfect approach shoe that excels equally in all areas hasn’t been developed. To see how it stacks up versus the competition, see our review on the best approach shoes. Further Reading Review: Our Top Approach Shoes for 2016 May 15, 2015 · The climbing specific tread pattern on the front of the shoe no doubt helps with extra rocky grip, but the style and feel of the shoes is more hiking than climbing. Jul 23, 2024 · While some approach shoes allow us to climb nearly as well as we can climb in rock climbing shoes, these shoes don't allow this kind of performance. Footwear meant to be as versatile as the terrain, approach shoes combine hiking shoe support and comfort with the grip and precision of a climbing shoe. $149 (US) / £140 (UK) 150g / 5. Nov 25, 2017 · The Guide Tennie is very affordable. This can be a little confusing when trying to find the best approach shoe Jan 13, 2025 · This approach shoe is highly technical, with innovative technology and a climbing shoe inspired design. ) Jul 23, 2024 · The thinner sole and stiff leather leave something to be desired for comfort when hiking long distances, and it's not the lightest shoe on the market. Our tester used the Geckos on Flatirons ridges, and noted their brilliance on rock, especially edging and cracks thanks to a stiff wraparound toe rand that imparts a rock-shoe-like shape. Approach Jul 23, 2024 · Mountain Guides often wear approach shoes while leading their guests up easier 5th-class climbs to reduce the amount of time they spend in rock climbing shoes. Jul 6, 2024 · What are approach shoes? They are grippy shoes used for the approach of a climb! Getting from a trailhead or parking lot to a climbing area can include a variety of terrain, with extra rocky ground to cover, which is where approach shoes come in. May 12, 2020 · The Arc'teryx Konseal FL is a sleek approach shoe that performs well on the trail and holds its own on the rock. Additionally, laps on Royal Arches, Cathedral Peak, Solar Slab, or any other wonderful solo/scrambles with crack climbing are likely to wear through the synthetic uppers rather quickly. Approach shoes typically use a combination of leather, rubber, and synthetic fabrics to create footwear that can handle both Jan 11, 2022 · Those looking for top easy climbing and scrambling performance, in a stylish and well-made approach shoe, will certainly find what they want in the new Scarpa Gecko. Jun 1, 2025 · 3. Mar 19, 2021 · Rounding out the collection, the TX2 is the lightest and least durable approach shoe of the bunch, and the TX Guide is purpose-built for technical scrambles with a light, sensitive, and sticky design (more on this model below). What We Like. Technical scrambling approach with a heavy pack – no problem. 8 pitches on long traverses or big-wall missions. Every runner is different. Mammut Ultimate Pro Low GTX. May 15, 2018 · Climbing Ability. $130; fiveten. Salewa Wildfire Gore-Tex Shoes. Whether you're scrambling up rocky ridges or tackling steep descents, the revamped lug pattern and the Vibram® Megagrip outsole (one of the brand’s stickiest compounds) make the shoe worthy of a rock Feb 6, 2025 · Part of the beauty of approach shoes is their ability to pull climbing moves on low-fifth-class terrain without the discomfort that comes with traditional tight climbing shoes. Oct 26, 2017 · Review: Scarpa Gecko Approach Shoe The Scarpa Gecko approach shoe. The TX Guide allows professionals and recreationists alike the opportunity to leave the climbing shoes at home more often and spend the day in comfortable approach shoes that can handle Dec 19, 2023 · The Scarpa Mescalito Planet emerged from our testing as our favorite approach shoe for wider feet. 7 or 5. However, don't expect this shoe to climb anywhere near as well as dedicated approach shoes. Jul 23, 2024 · Climbers looking for comfortable shoes for longer approaches and casual alpine terrain will also enjoy the Rapid. Credit: Sean Haverstock The narrow last and the enhanced lacing system–which ties into the midsole of the shoe–work together to decrease unwanted movement in the forefoot when climbing. Sep 23, 2021 · It’s not a technical approach shoe so isn’t best suited for climbing in. However, for technical runs and easy alpine scrambles that feature a few consequential moves of 5th class climbing, these shoes can handle the Jun 13, 2019 · (Note: A handful of online reviews noted that the shoe tends to run a half-size bigger than people’s standard street-shoe size, i. While other models are made from more durable leather and better for wall climbing, we know that the majority of climbers are using their approach shoes to access and descend, and the TX2s are more than up to the task, and are much lighter and more breathable than Jun 15, 2016 · These slimmed-down approach shoes have a design and climbing-specific sole for approaches and objectives where weight and speed are the main concerns. Picking the best approach shoe for you can Sep 5, 2019 · Climbing Ability. (men’s size 7) Waterproof: No (GTX available) What we like: Nice balance of hiking and climbing performance; incredibly durable for a light synthetic shoe. Surprisingly, they’re still quite comfortable. Review: Mammut Sloper Low. If you want a durable, casual looking shoe for short approaches to the crag or boulders, give it a whirl. Feb 11, 2025 · Approach shoes are designed to be durable enough to hike, scramble, and even do some lite climbing before you change into your rock shoes. The Jan 13, 2025 · If we drew a Venn diagram depicting performance, comfort and eco-conscious design, the La Sportiva TX4 EVO approach shoes would fall right into the centered sweet spot. Feb 11, 2024 · Since approach shoes are supposed to be a lightweight climbing-specific alternative to hiking shoes, it makes sense that weight is an important consideration when it comes to picking out a pair of approach shoes. Small improvements over many generations have left us with a shoe that hikes well and is more durable than past versions. Great if you’re looking for one shoe to do it all. For the last 33 years, since my first pair of Merrell Flashdance hightop rock shoes, and later, some of the first sticky-rubber approach shoes, I’ve been on the hunt for both the perfect rock and approach shoes. It all works excellently, with a precise fit, sure-footed traction and good features. Feb 28, 2024 · The materials used in approach shoes differ from those used in traditional climbing shoes because they need to be tough enough to withstand the rigors of walking over rough terrain but still flexible enough to climb in. Read the full review. The wider-than-average-Sportiva toe box makes for a comfortable approach to your next adventure, whether deep in the backcountry or just a stroll through the woods to the sport crag. e. May 2, 2019 · The Scarpa Mescalito approach shoe. Price: $155 Weight: 1 lb. Apr 14, 2025 · S crapa's new Rapid XT blurs the line between walking shoes and approach shoes, offering the all-day comfort of the former and the on-rock ability of the latter. Conclusion The Arc'teryx Arakys is a swing and a miss with our testers. For instructors especially, these are excellent. . Conclusion The Five Ten Guide Tennie is the best approach shoe for climbing and scrambling that we tested. Foam typically suggests cushioning, but these actually feature a low-density EVA insole. Sep 5, 2019 · The Salewa Wildfire is comfortable hiking shoe for longer approaches without much climbing. Hiking, climbing, scrambling, fastpacking. 9 in Colorado’s Front Range. If your emphasis is solely on hard scrambling or easy rock climbing then there are more capable models out there; however for those more into versatility the Rapid XT is really worth a look. Read more : La Sportiva TX4 review (1) La Sportiva TX3 Mar 13, 2025 · I’ve used the new Rapid XT as my go-to hiking and climbing approach shoe over the last 6 months. Sep 5, 2019 · This shoe comes with a steeper price than better-performing approach shoes. Most of the time you'll be walking in your approach shoes, after all, not climbing. Sean McNally. Climbing approaches vary in distance and difficulty. While hiking shoes often meet the needs of most rock climbers, approach shoes are crucial when the approach requires moving confidently over third-, fourth-, and May 12, 2020 · The outsole has less of a 'climbing zone' and outside edge than other shoes we tested. These shoes seriously impressed us with their excellent climbing ability, hiking comfort, durability, and overall support. The Cruzer Psyche climbs very well. Most Nov 5, 2024 · A well-constructed approach shoe with a durable design that was built for alpine terrain: Thanks to its lightweight design, comfortable build, and top-notch climbing ability, this shoe is an all-around favorite of our testing team: A solid shoe that excels in climbing ability and overall durability, but is not our first recommendation for comfort Jun 15, 2016 · Ideal for cragging, bouldering, or multi-pitching when you need a pair of descent shoes, these are lightweight but supportive for both trail travel and technical terrain. Furthermore, the shoes are relatively comfortable to wear while hiking and scrambling. But the Crux is still the best approach shoe that budget-minded climbers can buy. For cushy comfort and lighter weight shoes, look elsewhere. Oct 21, 2024 · The approach shoe offers much the same, but thanks to being a bit lighter I've used it more as an actual approach shoe for climbing in the UK, as well as the odd hillwalk. Locker Fit Review: Treksta Libero Approach Shoe The Treksta Libero Jul 13, 2021 · B illed as Black Diamond's most technical approach shoe, the Fuel (not to be confused with the axe of the same name) has an expectation to live up to. com. Mar 25, 2021 · Arc’teryx Konseal FL. They also pack down into a compact and lightweight package, making them our favorite lightweight approach shoe on the market. Edging. If you’re in search of an Mar 12, 2025 · While most high-quality approach shoes are priced between $160 and $190, the La Sportiva Boulder X ($149) offers high performance and long-term durability at a slightly reduced price point. Jun 15, 2016 · Approach shoe toughness with trail runner feel and fit, the Access is ideal for every type of terrain up to low fifth class thanks to a sticky dot rubber sole, increased upper support, and medium stiffness. Further Reading Review: Our Top 5 Approach Shoes for 2016 Apr 27, 2016 · Review: La Sportiva Helios SR Cover a light, zippy trailrunner in sticky rubber, and you get the Helios SR. Apr 11, 2024 · Unparallel is pretty new on the scene and started with climbing shoes, but have now branched out to approach and biking shoes. $179; scarpa. “This shoe climbs incredibly well, and its snug, sock-like fit felt secure on my foot while I was standing on small edges,” our lead tester shared. However, if you’re the type that basically wears approach shoes all the time – these are stylish enough to look decent at the pub or office, while also being functional for climbing situations. But while lightness and breathability are two points in its favour, it is let down on more gnarly ground by its soft sole and shallow tread. The obvious feature that intrigued me is the so called “Switchfit” system that promises a select-able performance orientated “climbing mode” and a comfortable casual “hiking mode”. Jun 15, 2016 · For approaches that involve a lot of scrambling, scree, or sections up to 5. $125; sportiva. Apr 29, 2025 · An approach shoe midsole also isn’t designed for the high-impact nature of running and won’t absorb your stride as well as a trail running shoe, so you may find yourself with heel and forefoot pain on longer runs. Feb 19, 2024 · Approach shoes are designed to tackle the tricky terrain on the way to the crag; they conquer the challenges that lie beyond the beaten path. Further Reading Review: Our Top 5 Approach Shoes for 2016 October 19, 2015 May 10, 2019 David Lottmann Footwear Reviews, Gear Reviews Approach Shoe Reviews, Climbing Shoe Reviews, Five Ten Approach Shoes, Five Ten Guide Tennies, Gear Reviews It would not be a stretch of the imagination to state that I have spent more time in the Five Ten Guide Tennies in the last 10 years than any other shoe! Mar 9, 2025 · These shoes come with Ortholite comfort foam insoles. Technical approach. Nov 29, 2021 · Scarpa took the older version of the Rapid, a lightweight hiker/approach shoe, and flipped it on its head. jump to: la sportiva tx2 / black diamond mission lt / scarpa crux ii / arc’teryx konseal ar / scarpa zen pro / la sportiva tx guide / tnf activist futurelight / la sportiva boulder x / buying advice Apr 22, 2025 · And approach shoes all over—some in our front-door shoe cubby, some by the garage, some stashed at my office, a few back-up pairs in a bin somewhere… Perhaps it’s because climbing footwear was so rudimentary when I got into the sport 30-plus years ago, but I can’t seem to part with a beloved pair of kicks. Marketed as an approach shoe, Scarpa’s 2021 Rapid actually looks more like a running shoe but includes a climbing zone—a blue rubber rand tucked under a black sticky-rubber toecap—for edging on rock. While not the most rugged option on the market, the Evolv Men’s Cruzer Approach Shoe is a delightfully lightweight, minimalist, fuss-free and comfortable option for those who anticipate doing more in the way of rock-climbing and scrambling as opposed to longer distance hiking or trekking with heavy loads. The Unparallel Rock Guide has a very similar feel to an old Five Tennie approach shoe, being soft and comfortable. In this review, we compare 11 of the best models on the market today in side-by-side tests. Its main May 12, 2020 · The climbing-centric outsole of the Technician has more climbing edge and 'climbing zone' than any other approach shoe. Though billed as a supportive hiker, easy scrambling, and the occasional stepping-out-of-your-aiders free move are more this shoe's MO. It doesn't climb as well as models from climbing specific brands like La Sportiva or Five Ten. We love how light it is, and it entirely changes our scrambling and multi-pitch climbing strategies. Approach shoes come in all different styles and designs these days, and grand promises like “do it all” appear all over the marketing material. In such circumstances, approach shoes provide climbers with an ideal middle-ground, a shoe that is sturdy enough for rugged, steep hiking terrain but comfortable enough to Jun 15, 2016 · Climbing shoe meets hiking boot meets trail runner—the approach shoe is one of the most versatile types of footwear out there. com Apr 9, 2020 · The Competition. Compared to the Five Ten Guide Tennie or the Scarpa Crux, the Rebel feels sloppy on the edges. Lightweight Support. May 20, 2022 · The La Sportiva TX2 knocks it outta the park in all our metrics, really raising the bar for what we expect from an approach shoe. 3oz. The shoes proved solid on all terrain. 8, the Gecko is the stiff, supportive, protective, durable, and burly shoe for the job. Climbing shoes are one thing, but approach shoes are another. Review Boreal Drom Mid Tech Read more Aug 13, 2019 · An approach shoe has to fit closely for climbing performance - you want a nice precise feel at the toe, and no heel lift when edging. The specialized shoes for climbing are generally very uncomfortable to wear on an long approach trail. Feb 10, 2025 · The heaviest shoe in La Sportiva's Traverse X series, the TX4 is a great hiking shoe that happens to climb exceptionally well. Read full review. $150; arcteryx. No matter what, the best approach shoes combine the stability and support of a hiking boot with the grip and dexterity of a climbing shoe. Mar 31, 2015 · The Mojito is the most durable lightweight product we tested, but we feel there are more well-rounded approach shoes for the price. This pair offers comfort and support that several other approach shoes trade for enhanced climbing ability. What Are Approach Shoes? Currently, the makers of approach shoes must find their balance point between climbing ability and hiking ability. Weight At 722g for my pair of size 42/UK8 these are very light, although not as light as Scarpa claim (320g x 2 = 640g for size 42). Jul 23, 2024 · These approach shoes have sensitive yet supportive soles, which enable excellent smearing, edging, and crack climbing. For true rock climbing, the Vertex can't keep up. These skater style shoes are soft and comfy, but not stiff and supportive. Nov 7, 2023 · The approach can be anything from a short scramble to the crag or a multi-day hump to a valley of granite towers and anything in between. We wore them on fifth-class slabs and cracks in Yosemite, as well as bolting and climbing up to 5. best approach shoes of 2023. Building a quality approach shoe is an art—and a science. Getting to your chosen climbing destination can involve a five-minute stroll, talus-hopping in the high alpine, scrambling fourth and fifth class, hiking on a trail, bushwhacking, and everything in between. . The Sloper is excellent all-around and can be used for technical climbing, scrambling, and trail hiking, as well as romping around town. After well over 100 miles (160km) of distance and nearly 10,000 feet (3,000m) of vert, the Vertex has shown zero signs of premature wear. Sep 25, 2024 · Everyone has different feet, but the right pair of approach shoes can help you achieve your climbing goals. The rubber sticks, the forefoot flexes for smearing, and the low profile fits into cracks that burlier shoes can't. At the same time it has to be comfy enough for long days and big distances on your feet. The point where well-trodden trails give way to real adventure – I’m talking scrambles (that often borderline solos), boulder hopping, and navigating scree fields – This is the natural home of the approach shoe. The lacing system extends almost to the toes, offering a snugger fit when you need increased performance. A precise toe and stiff construction combine for a technical climbing prowess on par with low-performance climbing shoes Nov 5, 2024 · The climbing shoe inspired lacing system allows you to better customize the overall volume and fit of the shoe specific to your foot shape which greatly increases the overall climbing ability. 5 oz. Jul 17, 2021 · If you are in need of some new approach shoes this is a model to consider, especially if you’ve worn Black Diamond climbing shoes before and know their sizing fits your feet! Black Diamond Fuel Approach Shoes Review. It has the same sticky Trax rubber as other Evolv approach shoes and plenty of sensitivity compared to heavier models like the Salewa Firetail 3. That's not to say they aren't a good choice for an approach shoe, but we wouldn't be soloing easy routes on the grit in these. Approach shoes were once the preserve of the climbing community, used on the walk in – or, if you will, the ‘approach’ – to crags or cliffs before a day of climbing. While the shoe features a wider toe box than other La Sportiva models that we tested, it does not prevent the shoe from edging and smearing on fifth May 5, 2021 · That said, when it comes to climbing, I’m a top-of-the-class nerd with a foot fetish. The lightweight design, yet surprisingly stiff and comfortable midsole, and sticky Vibram Megagrip outsole, make this shoe a great choice for a fast romp out to your favorite backcountry scramble without the need for a change in footwear. The Pomoca Speed MTN outsole has a flat toe ‘climbing zone’ with a rigid ‘edging plate’, providing the directional stiffness and solid edging Apr 29, 2025 · The La Sportiva TX2 Evo is our favorite approach shoe, hands down. The new Salewa Wildfire Edge approach shoes arrived a few weeks ago and I’ve since logged a dozen or so days hiking and climbing in them. It’s comfortable for long hikes, scrambles well enough (although it’s definitely not in the class of a sticky approach shoe with this) and it is proving to be incredibly robust. With wide, high-volume feet, however, I did not notice this issue; the shoes have a medium-width—let’s call it “standard”—last. Apr 23, 2024 · Lightweight approach shoe. Conclusion The Scarpa Mojito is one of the best-selling approach shoes of all time. With its emphasis on approaching the mountains, the shoe is decidedly less sensitive for precision big toe placement than other shoes in the review. A media sample was provided for purpose of review. May 19, 2020 · Approach shoes are a fun category for us here at the GearLab because they're a relative niche product that combines the best of two other categories: hiking shoes and climbing shoes. , if you wear size 9, that 9 might feel more like a 9. However, consider a more supportive shoe for heavy packs and high arches. Ultralight, sneaker style approach shoe. Once you start climbing outdoors, you learn getting to the crag requires hiking. The latest premium approach shoe in Scarpa’s line shined for their comfort, technical ability, and light weight (1lb, 12oz per pair, size 42). See how it measures up versus competitors in our review of approach shoes. See you in the mountains, Northeast Alpine Start. Many climbers run in their approach shoes regularly without issue. This is why many climbers invest in approach shoes. While traditional hiking boots suffice in some locations, climbing approaches are often technical and require scrambling across boulders and ascending low angle rock. Arc’teryx’s Konseal AR is a good-looking and well-made approach shoe built to handle long approaches with a heavy pack. It is a steal for the excellent climbing performance it delivers. Apr 18, 2024 · This is a new product for Arc’teryx, but as a brand built on a solid climbing heritage their design department obviously fully understands what’s required in an approach shoe, and where exactly it’s important to diverge from the features offered by a hiking shoe or, indeed a trail running shoe. gzgzgm xmujlk hob oamsmo iwgtno rdmiwe jlf ovtzaapr trnnq imjxs