Best approach shoes climbing. Also contributing is editor Matt Bento.

Best approach shoes climbing A great women’s approach shoe for comfortable hiking as well as more tricky climbing. As a former YOSAR member and Bishop California local, he draws on 20 years of experience, employing approach shoes on technical rescues, aid climbing on the big stone, and High Sierra ridge scrambles. In our research of the best approach shoes available today, we investigated the materials of the shoes and also listened to customer feedback to give you an honest, well-rounded idea of the shoes and how durable they are. May 30, 2022 · How is an approach shoe different from a climbing shoe? Climbing shoes and approach shoes have different intended uses and are therefore made differently, even though they use much of the same materials. I have climbed a UIAA III-IV multipitch in approach shoes (TX5 Low). Oct 21, 2024 · Approach shoes vary from light and flexible to solid and supportive, and in this Group Test we're looking at models that offer more support and protection, since these are arguably best suited to all-round UK use including mountain days. Apr 22, 2020 · However, somewhere in the middle sits a class of technical mountain shoes only a few people outside the climbing world appreciate – the approach shoe. A 1-year warranty keeps you covered when you are out kicking rocks and gripping onto mountainsides. They are most at home in the often scrambly zone between climbing and hiking, where the former may be overkill but you'd find the latter lacking in grip and precision Apr 29, 2025 · The La Sportiva TX2 Evo is our favorite approach shoe, hands down. They offer both stability and traction on rocky surfaces, while also ensuring comfort during long hikes on the trail. Former senior editor and passionate mountain athlete Jenny Abegg drew from her decades of experience on the rock and in the alpine to compile our initial list Sep 25, 2024 · Everyone has different feet, but the right pair of approach shoes can help you achieve your climbing goals. 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. Scarpa Crux Women’s. 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. Brand: La Sportiva; Manufacturer: La Sportiva; Color: Carbon/Zest; Experience superior comfort and support with the La Sportiva Women’s TX4 EVO Leather Hiking Shoes. Like many of the best approach shoes, it has sole made from rubber that is very sticky and grippy on rocks, has the kind of close fit that rock climbers like, and a longer run of laces than a typical hiking shoe that 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. In our previous review, which weighted climbing performance more strongly, the Ganda was our Editors' Choice winner. Feb 6, 2025 · Approach shoes are a fun bunch, merging hiking and climbing performance for a best-of-both-worlds combination on scrambles and technical terrain en route to the crag or in the mountains. Nov 9, 2024 · After thoroughly testing and comparing these climbing shoes designed for wide feet, here’s our verdict for different climbing scenarios: Best Overall: La Sportiva Skwama. Nov 5, 2024 · The situations when an approach shoe is ideal are when your hike is long enough that you need the comfort and support that a hiking shoe would provide, but you also need some of the dexterity and traction that a climbing shoe offers due to more difficult terrain on at least some sections of the approach or actual climbing route. May 15, 2024 · Based on our research and testing, we think the La Sportiva TX4 is the best Approach Shoes available in 2025. The big advantages of approach shoes are the rubber (as mentioned), but equally importantly the fit. 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. Best Value: Salewa Wildfire Edge – View on Alpinetrek. It is a steal for the excellent climbing performance it delivers. Despite our praise for their performance, the wider-than-usual last for approach shoes means that the Mescalito Planet is best for users with average or wider-than-average fe The best overall climbing approach shoe we tested for 2022 was the Five Ten Tennie Guide, followed by the La Sportiva Boulder X. Apr 19, 2022 · "This La Sportiva Ganda is the best approach shoe out there for real deal climbing, earning a Top Pick for Climbing Ability. They’re tough but flexible, cushioned but grippy, and have Gore-Tex waterproofing to keep your feet dry. 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. They're a convenience. The sole design doesn’t do as well on muddy or heathery descents, but the caged lacing system and suede upper provide some waterproofing. Hiking and trekking focused brands manufacture some of the best footwear on the market, but they generally don’t factor in the needs of vertical climbers. It is a favorite among guides, who can climb just about any moderate rock route in them. Perfect balance of performance and comfort; Versatile enough for various climbing styles; Superior sensitivity without sacrificing fit; Best for Gym Climbing: Scarpa Veloce Nov 25, 2017 · The Guide Tennie is very affordable. Perhaps the most versatile class of mountain footwear, the approach shoe is a tough-as-nails, below-the-ankle blend of hiking boot, trail runner and climbing shoe. They crush miles on the trail and can smear when the moves get tenuous. 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 Aug 27, 2023 · I prefer the guide for standing in aiders but for technical climbing the hypers are better imo. Sep 21, 2020 · Approach shoes, as a footwear category, are pretty unique. They aren't cheap, but they are built to last Sep 28, 2017 · The strongest approach shoes have a rubber rand that extends around the upper portion of the shoe. For those with wide feet, finding the perfect pair of approach shoes can be a daunting task. Apr 16, 2023 · What's the best approach shoe for climbing 5th class these days? I loved climbing up to 5. The Rovers lean toward the trail runner end of the spectrum though, they have a wide toebox and a breathable mesh upper. Unlike the Scarpa Men’s Crux Canvas, this shoe does not offer the hemp material or EcoPure EVA additive. Climbing approaches vary in distance and difficulty. . Best for durability: Black Diamond Mission Leather Low Waterproof – View on Black Diamond. Dec 19, 2023 · The Scarpa Mescalito Planet excels on technical approaches and low 5th-class terrain, and features excellent construction quality for added reliability in remote terrain. Here, we'e covered our favorite approach shoe options for 2023, while giving some sizing and maintenance tips. Sean McNally. 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. These shoes combing perfect climbing capability, with support and ruggedness so you can hike for long hours and still tackle difficult terrain. Most of the time you'll be walking in your approach shoes, after all, not climbing. 10 Guide Tennies back in the day, and folks raved about the Gandas, though I never had a pair. Approach shoes come in all different styles and designs these days, and grand promises like “do it all” appear all over the marketing material. 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. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. T EN P OUND B ACKPACK Best Climbing Shoes Climb 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. Most approach shoes are narrow and have leather uppers for durability in cracks. OUTSIDE FESTIVAL JUNE 1-2 Don't miss Thundercat + Fleet Foxes, adventure films, experiences, and more! Yes, approach shoes have sticky rubber for high-3rd to low-5th class terrain where you don’t want to have the inconvenience of full rock climbing shoes. Style: Minimalist. Credit: Matt Bento Unfortunately, our favorite approach shoe for narrow feet, the La Sportiva TX Guide , showed some poor construction quality during our test period. La Sportiva Women’s TX4 EVO Leather Technical Approach/Hiking Shoes, Carbon/Zest, 9. 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. Once you start climbing outdoors, you learn getting to the crag requires hiking. Feb 7, 2022 · Approach shoes are a fun type of outdoorsy footwear that grant the wearer fundamental climbing capabilities (smearing, edging, jamming) while offering support that lands somewhere between a proper trail running shoe (or hiking boot) and a standard everyday sneaker. 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. At the same time it has to be comfy enough for long days and big distances on your feet. Small improvements over many generations have left us with a shoe that hikes well and is more durable than past versions. Jul 12, 2024 · Enter the approach shoe, the ideal halfway house between the climbing shoe and the best hiking shoe. Picking the best approach shoe for you can La Sportiva TX4. Mar 17, 2025 · Approach shoes combine the features of hiking shoes and climbing shoes in a brand-new category. Apr 18, 2025 · Approach shoes are designed for various outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, and backpacking, and they need to balance durability, grip, and agility. Feb 11, 2025 · The best approach shoes for climbing have leather uppers and a rand that extends above the toe. Price: £135 Weight: 760g Best for: Scrambling, technical mountain routes Key attributes: Superb grip, comfort, lightweight Of all the approach shoes tested here, La Sportiva’s TX4 are those most reminiscent of a traditional climbing shoe. Dec 3, 2024 · Finding the perfect pair of approach shoes can be a daunting task, especially when the market is flooded with different styles, colors, and features. 9 multipitch in the original 5. The superior comfort of the Scarpa Crux makes them great approach shoes for any length of hike, no matter how strenuous, and their low-profile style means they can easily double as street shoes. Conclusion The Five Ten Guide Tennie is the best approach shoe for climbing and scrambling that we tested. Evolv Men’s Cruzer Shoes. 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. Feb 28, 2024 · As many of the best climbing spots aren’t exactly roadside crags, approach shoes are designed to be worn on the hike to your climbing destination. The 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. I like approach shoes for more technical stuff (4th-low 5th) and walk-offs from climbs (when you have to carry your approach shoes up the technical climb). Mountain Guides often choose approach shoes with the best climbing ability and use these shoes on easy-to-moderate multi-pitch climbs and alpine climbs. With this being said, the recommendations of climbing shoes is definitely the way to go, go for a cheapish shoe like a finale and try a half length midsole. While traditional hiking boots suffice in some locations, climbing approaches are often technical and require scrambling across boulders and ascending low angle rock. This can be a little confusing when trying to find the best approach shoe Apr 29, 2025 · Most approach shoes don’t have aggressive lugs, so they may falter when moving fast on mud, dirt, or other loose surfaces. Apr 27, 2016 · For more than six months of a hot summer, a snowy winter, and a soaking-wet spring, our testers vetted almost a dozen pairs of climbing-specific approach shoes, light hikers, and trailrunners to find the best picks for trad-, sport-, alpine-, and boulder-loving climbers alike. Made from hardwearing suede, these shoes look good and should provide day-long comfort on long hikes and easy climbs. Feb 24, 2020 · The Crux is also one of the best dual-use warm-up climbing approach shoes, as you can rely on its grippy texture for ascending easy 5th class climbs. Oct 26, 2021 · 4. 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. Dec 10, 2024 · La Sportiva’s TX2 Evo approach shoes feature Vibram rubber, a climbing zone under the big toe, a flexible forefoot but stiffer heel, and a thin midsole. NOT HIKING SHOES, NOT CLIMBING SHOES: Approach shoes themselves fill a small but necessary niche. 6-5. The best approach shoes for men should be selected based on the specific activity, terrain, and personal preference. Rubber: Trax. They are designed to be able to withstand tough, technical terrain on the approach to the crag and double as a climbing shoe on easy routes or problems when it would be inconvenient to change into climbing shoes. Climbing shoes are engineered to help the climber ascend vertical, or mostly vertical, rock walls. 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 Asolo Eldo LTH GV Approach Shoes are the ideal compromise between hiking and climbing shoes. But no, approach shoes aren't necessary. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect pair Jul 23, 2024 · 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 moderate rock climbs with a wide margin of security. As a former YOSAR member and Bishop California local, he draws on 20 years of experience, employing approach shoes on technical rescues, aid climbing on the These are by far the best approach shoes for climbing, but they are just as good for approaching or hiking. I wear them for virtually everything unless temperatures are going to be below 20F or I face waist deep snow. The new design incorporates more recycled and repurposed materials without sacrificing climbing performance and durability. May 7, 2025 · 3. Also contributing is editor Matt Bento. It is usually possible to do a bit more climbing in approach shoes before having to switch to your actual climbing shoes. This is why many climbers invest in approach shoes. “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. 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. ". What Are Approach Shoes? Currently, the makers of approach shoes must find their balance point between climbing ability and hiking ability. Jun 1, 2025 · 3. Jul 23, 2024 · This shoe is a godsend for any runner who likes to incorporate technical moves into their running itineraries. We love how light it is, and it entirely changes our scrambling and multi-pitch climbing strategies. So if Nov 17, 2017 · Whatever you do there is an Approach shoe for you! Top 5 – Best Approach Shoes. For that very reason, this product has emerged as a favorite shoe of professional mountain guides all over May 24, 2023 · The Reviews: The Best Approach Shoes of 2023 Most Lightweight: The North Face Summit Cragstone Pro ($175) Unlike a technical rock-climbing shoe, an approach shoe is sized traditionally. Approach shoes, also known as scrambling shoes, are designed to provide traction and support while hiking up steep terrain, scrambling over rocks, and even climbing. 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 Aug 31, 2022 · The best approach shoes share characteristics with hiking boots and rock climbing shoes—designed for climbers who need to hike rugged, rocky trails to get to the cliff base but don’t want to The La Sportiva TX3 is an approach shoe, which means that it is intended for both hiking and scrambling or light rock climbing. Among these options, the Scarpa Mescalito Planet shines in hiking comfort and support, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable hiking experience. Worst case, you can stop and put on your climbing shoes for tough scrambles. I didn't really plan to do that, but I followed on the first pitch in approach shoes because I didn't feel like putting on my climbing shoes and then just went "that worked fine, I'll just keep my approach shoes on. Apr 23, 2024 · The best approach shoes have emerged from the desire adventurers have to cut down on baggage, but still benefit from technical kit. Shop for Approach Shoes at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. Building a quality approach shoe is an art—and a science. With so many options available, it <a title="Best Approach Shoes for Hiking Approach shoes simply offer you the best of both worlds. . Best all-rounder: AKU Rock DFS GTX – View on Alpinetrek Dec 19, 2023 · They also feature relatively stiff, lightly padded midsoles, which maximize power transfer and feel between the foot and the rock, but this also makes hiking less comfortable. Jan 13, 2025 · Best approach shoes at a glance: Best in Test: La Sportiva TX Guide – View on Alpinetrek. Trail runners are great and dry out quickly after getting wet. Sometimes jokingly referred to as rock hiking shoes, they are a mix between hiking and climbing shoes. If you think you need or want a pair for your outdoor or indoor climbing, take a look at some of the best approach shoes available. Approach shoes should fit much snugger than hiking shoes. Don’t think these shoes are a one-trick pony though, many climbing and mountaineers will use their approach shoes for a variety of activities such as hiking, light scrambling, and low-level Mar 23, 2020 · Best Overall Approach Shoe: La Sportiva TX4 A Close Second: Five Ten Guide Tennie Best Budget Approach Shoe (and great for cragging): Evolv Cruzer Psyche Best Approach Shoe for Hiking: Salewa Mountain Trainer 2 GTX See Our List of Best Approach Shoes Mar 20, 2025 · Weight: 405g (per shoe, men’s) Upper: Mesh with Kevlar cables Outsole: Pomoca Speed MTN Lacing: Climbing-style extended lacing The Salewa Wildfire is a lightweight approach shoe designed for technical terrain. When selecting the best approach shoes for 2024, consider the Scarpa Mescalito Planet, La Sportiva TX4, La Sportiva TX2 Evo, Scarpa Crux, and La Sportiva TX Guide. Jul 23, 2024 · More of a running shoe than a climbing shoe, but it has sticky rubber for technical trails and light scrambles: Perfect for users with wider-than-average feet, these shoes can do it all, from 5th-class climbing to long approaches to aid climbing. The following are our picks for the best Approach shoes on the market! #5 Evolv Cruzer Approach Shoe. They are most certainly not a replacement for climbing shoes, or even climbing-oriented approach shoes, but they are great for routes that involve some scrambling. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Nov 5, 2024 · The new and improved La Sportiva TX4 Evo is the perfect approach shoe that supplies enough versatility for everyday use. The Evolv Cruzer Approach Shoes are about as barebones as it gets. They are much comfier than climbing shoes for taking on hard scrambles and easier climbs, the sort where you still might be moving fast and doing plenty of walking and clambering between more vertical sections. pbhasv whri gqcgc quk kgebbbc jwiewl oibkn rwdgbpj kpql voyag