Anyone with a massive interest in mountaineering or hiking should consider investing in approach shoes for climbing. Packed with some specific features, the approach shoes for hiking will give you better stability and traction while in the open. But since manufacturers often disagree on the best approach for optimal performance, you can expect a wide variety of options to choose from. So, we’ve decided to come out with a curated list of some of the best alternatives that you can get at the moment. That includes the impressive approach shoes La Sportiva! And without much ado, let’s get down to it!
How to Choose The Best Approach Shoes for Climbing
Before we start with reviews of approach shoes for climbing, it would be a good idea if you know some of the basics. First of all, let’s ask ourselves, what exactly is an approach shoe? Well, it’s basically footgear designed to deal with rocky surfaces. Compared to regular hiking boots, they’re stiffer and have a lot of rubber protection bands. That way, you can get the best grip while maintaining your walking speed.
And that leads us to the next question, how should I choose shoes for hiking? To answer this, we’ve put hours into research and information gathering. As a result, here are three factors you should consider before buying an approach shoes La Sportiva or other similar footgear.
Breathability
For breathability, nothing really beats the approach shoes for hiking with a mesh or knit upper. But on the downside, they’re often not as tough as leather shoes. There are, however, a few alternatives out there that come up with genius solutions. They offer foot gears with newly-invented materials, such as Enduro Knit and ripstop mesh. Both are known to offer a great balance between breathability and comfort.
Weight
Another thing you need to consider when choosing an approach for climbing shoes is weight. Going for miles with two pounds on each of your feet will definitely slow you down. So, make sure you think carefully about this. If you’re going to be carrying the shoes around more often than wearing them, consider getting a lighter pair and vice versa. But remember, the lighter the shoes, the less stable and durable they will be.
Sizing
It doesn’t matter if you plan to get approach shoes La Sportiva or something else, sizing is always important. You have to be absolutely certain that they’ll be snugly fit. Remember, a good pair of approach shoes should have a little extra room for the big toes. Apart from that, they should fit like hiking shoes. Oh, and one more thing, each brand has a different fitting. So be absolutely sure about your size before deciding to buy.
Can You Climb in Approach Shoes?
Yes, of course. That’s because approach shoes have several characteristics in common with rock climbing shoes. They have sticky rubber to give you an excellent grip. Apart from that, the midsole is designed for rough terrains. So, it’s totally okay if you want to climb in approach shoes.
What is The Point of Approach Shoes?
As the name suggests, the approach shoes are designed for long approaches to climbs. Compared to hiking shoes or rock climbing shoes, they’re slimmer and smaller. It almost looks like running shoes. And that’s natural because they’re designed in such a way as to be comfortable to wear over a long period.
Are Approach Shoes Worth It?
Honestly speaking, approach shoes aren’t essential. Even when you have to face tough scrambles, you can count on your climbing shoes. But if you’re all about comfort, then getting a pair of approach shoes are a must. Besides being narrow, they also have leather uppers for durability.
La Sportiva TX2
13
Compared to its younger counterpart, the TX4, La Sportiva TX2 is much lighter. This impressive pair of climbing approach shoes weigh no more than 20 ounces. Apart from that, there’s a fantastic elastic cable system. This way, you can turn the shoe into a compact package and clip it to a climbing harness. As for breathability, the uppers knit should be more than enough to keep your feet fresh throughout the day.
Another thing to love about the La Sportiva TX2 is its precise lacing system. In case you face tougher conditions, you can switch to a tighter fit on the go. Overall, a nice product. Make sure to check it out if you can.
What We Love
Weighs less than 20 ounces and has a fantastic elastic cord system
Pros:
- Easy to pack
- Breathable mesh
- Precision lacing system
- Recommended for scrambling
Cons:
- Less durable when compared to leather shoes
Evolv Cruzer Psyche
12
For most climbers, the Evolv Cruzer Psyche is a no-brainer. This fantastic pair of gear is possibly one of the lightest and most affordable approach shoes for hiking around. The original model is known to be great for crag and some medium-level routes. And for Psyche, Evolv Cruzer adds a bigger rubber band around the big toe area. This way, you should get better stability and better grip.
As for weights, a pair of these is measured only at 1 pound and 4 ounces. So if you’re into ultralight gear, Psyche will definitely be a remarkable choice. And to make it even better, a new pair will cost you no more than 79 bucks!
What did you say? New to climbing? Well, there’s no need to be shy. We’ve got tons of great recommendations for beginners here. For starters, you can check out our list of the 13 best climbing harnesses for beginners. Make sure you make progress wearing the right gear!
What We Love
One of the lightest approach shoes for climbing around and they are affordable too!
Pros:
- Cotton canvas upper material
- Microfiber-lined foam
- EVA midsole
- Trax sole
Cons:
- Not too great for difficult terrain
Salewa Mountain Trainer 2 GTX
11
The Salewa Mountain Trainer 2 GTX clearly doesn’t need an introduction. This pair of approach shoes for climbing are the work of great craftsmen in Montebelluna, Italy. In case you live under the rocks, it’s a place often referred to as ‘the shoemaking capital of the world’. It’s no wonder the Trainer 2 GTX is often recommended as one of the best solutions for anyone looking to explore the alpine.
Compared to the original model, the Trainer 2 GTX is about 15 percent lighter. They’re also much more flexible, allowing you to move around with more freedom. Furthermore, Salewa also incorporated waterproof coatings on this gear. But on the downside, it makes the shoes less breathable. Other than that, for some reason, the fitting felt narrower. However, don’t let these things put you off. For around 170 bucks, the Trainer 2 GTX is still one of the most durable approach shoes for hiking you can get.
What We Love
It’s lighter and more flexible than the original model
Pros:
- Sure-grip Vibram sole
- Breathable GORE-TEX protection
- Suede leather upper
- Lighter than the previous model
Cons:
- Some will find these shoes are too narrow
Black Diamond Session
10
For those who prefer to focus on gym climbing, shoes like the TX2 and Mountain Trainer may be a bit overkill. Therefore, we recommend getting something like a Black Diamond Session. These are climbing approach shoes designed for casual style. They’re comfortable and super easy to wear. Apart from that, you’ll get all the basics one would expect from decent outdoor gear.
The Black Diamond Session has a kind of elastic stretch at the heel. This makes it easy to wear, without requiring you to play around with the laces. And if you want, you can wear these shoes as a slip-on! Apart from that, the Session is packed with plenty of features, including rubber soles, protective toe caps, and webbing loops. If you haven’t decided on the best approach shoes for hiking, this one will be awesome.
What We Love
Designed for casual style, super easy to put on and take off
Pros:
- 100 percent polyester
- Great for climbing and skiing
- Easy to put on
- Great fittings
Cons:
- The rubber outsole should be a little stickier
Arcteryx Konseal FL 2
9
With Arcteryx Konseal FL2, hybrid design is the name of the game. Their main mission is to bring out the best of both worlds. Traction and support of the approach shoe and agility of a trail runner. And how does it turn out? Well, it seems safe to say that Arcteryx does a great job here.
First of all, we got a Vibram Megagrip sole to guarantee consistent performance across different surfaces. For supreme breathability, there’s a mesh upper on the foam heel. And at about a pound and five ounces, these shoes are one of the lightest around. So, whenever you plan to do mountain scrambling, the Arcteryx Konseal FL2 should be your go-to approach shoes for climbing.
What We Love
Hybrid construction that brings out the best of both worlds
Pros:
- Breathable material
- Vibram MegaGrip rubber
- 3D molded rubber toe cap
- Microfiber heel lining
Cons:
- Not as durable as leather shoes
Scarpa Crux
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The Scarpa Crux is something you would call a jack of all trades. These are all-rounder approach shoes for climbing designed to take on a variety of different terrains. From rocky hills to moderate trails, this gear will do it all. Thanks to kevlar webbing that bridges the laces and midfoot area, you’ll get better overall consistency with this thing.
As for the sole, Scarp uses their latest Megagrip design. While it’s not as reliable as the dotted design of La Sportiva, we have to admit that their effort deserves appreciation. As soon as we put it on, we knew Crux would do well on softer surfaces. Like snow or wet leaves for example. And in case you need something more breathable for your summer hike, you can go with the Scrap Crux Air version. It features more mesh to promote optimal airflow.
What We Love
Decent all-rounder approach shoes for hiking that won’t cost you an arm and a leg
Pros:
- Rubber sole
- Suede upper
- Vibram Vertical Approach
- Lace-to-toe design
Cons:
- The outsole design could be better
Black Diamond Technician
7
Black Diamond Technician is clearly marketed for technical climbers. From a flat sole to dotted rubber to a streamlined rubber dot, this thing has everything you need for a good scrambling. We also give two thumbs up for the EnduroKnit upper. Compared to its synthetic counterpart, this one feels more durable and is much better at promoting airflow.
But since the Technician was designed with climbing in mind, we really don’t recommend it for hiking. There’s not enough big toe room, so you really don’t want to wear these when you have swollen feet, which will most likely happen when you hit those trails. Apart from that, it would be a good idea to upsize. That’s unless you want a really tight fitting for your approach shoes for climbing.
Speaking of climbing, did you know that this activity isn’t just limited to humans? Yes, it turns out you can take your four-legged pal on an exciting high altitude adventure! For more details, check out our list of the 13 best climbing harnesses for dogs.
What We Love
Comes with a durable EnduroKnit upper and provides better airflow
Pros:
- 100 percent polyester
- Durable
- Precision fit
- Great for technical terrain
Cons:
- Not recommended for hiking
Scarpa Gecko
6
The Scarpa Gecko would make a good entry-level high-performance shoe. The slip-lasted toe box is great for climbing and there’s a stiff heel for greater stability. And for those planning to hit the trail, great news! The gecko features a cushioned EVA midsole. In other words, you should be able to get all the comfort you need. But please note that it’s not recommended to carry too much weight while you’re in these shoes.
In order to keep up with market demand, Scarpa updates Gecko’s designs regularly. For the 2021 version, they give these approach shoes for climbing a better water resistance. Apart from that, there’s a SuperGum outsole which is more sticky and durable. Compared to BD Technician, Gecko is definitely tougher. However, you must be willing to sacrifice a little breathability here. So, what do you think?
What We Love
An impressive high-performance shoe, available at an entry-level price
Pros:
- 100 percent suede
- Synthetic sole
- Sticky rubber
- Lace-to-toe design
Cons:
- Not great for those with wide feet
La Sportiva Boulder X
5
Have you just started your climbing journey? Then look no further than the La Sportiva Boulder X. This shoes for climbing approach offers great value for the money. You get nothing less than a sticky rubber, excellent design, and a leather upper. And if you want to save even more, these shoes are available at several online stores for a discount of 90 bucks!
While some of you may think this is too good to be true, we do have some notes here. First of all, La Sportiva Boulder X is a bit on the heavy side. Carrying this in a harness is definitely not recommended. Apart from that, the leather upper stretches too much when exposed to water. But with this being said, that doesn’t mean the Boulder X is a bad shoe. If you have wide feet and plan to explore some trails, this will be the right tool.
What We Love
An impressive climbing shoe, available in a pocket-friendly price
Pros:
- Vibram sole
- High-cushion LaSpEVA layer
- Mythos lacing system
- Vibram Idro-Rubber group
Cons:
- It’s a bit heavy
Five Ten Guide Tennie
4
When it comes to approach shoes for climbing, nothing represents it better than Five Ten Guide Tennie. Some refer to them as the first, one that paved the way, an old-school classic. It’s no wonder these shoes remain popular, decades after their first release. The most recently updated version comes with a durable suede upper, beveled climbing toe, and sticky rubber. Apart from that, they’re also significantly lighter, though not as light as the La Sportiva TX2.
With that being said, the overall Guide Tennie design does look a little dated. Apart from that, the dotted rubber doesn’t work too well on slippery surfaces. However, if you prefer something classic and proven, then these are the approach shoes for hiking you’ve been looking for.
What We Love
A classic shoe that’s durable and built to last
Pros:
- 100 percent leather
- Synthetic sole
- High-friction Stealth Dotty tread
- Padded tongue and collar
Cons:
- Doesn’t work great on slippery surfaces
La Sportiva TX4
3
Here is another approach shoes La Sportiva that are worth considering. Compared to other mountaineering boots, La Sportiva TX4 is significantly lighter. Perfect for those who prefer minimal packing during their outdoor adventures. However, that doesn’t mean TX4 isn’t as capable as its heavier counterpart. In fact, it has all the protection and support that an outdoor shoe requires.
Thanks to its mid-high cut, the TX4 will give you more support on demanding surfaces. But for mud or snow, we recommend looking at other alternatives. Furthermore, its Gore-Tex inserts provide a welcome added protection. But at the same time, it also makes the shoes less breathable. Once again, it’ll depend entirely on what kind of project you’re going to do. If you’re planning to climb a route that requires carrying heavy loads, that’ll make excellent approach shoes for hiking.
And since we’re on the topic of climbing, why don’t you check out our other recommended gear? We’ve got a great list of 13 best climbing shoes for men, where you’ll find some great alternatives to up your climbing game!
What We Love
Lighter than most mountaineering boots, plus packed with Gore-Tex inserts for added protection
Pros:
- Vibram sole
- Leather upper material
- Non-slip mesh lining
- MEMlex compression midsole
Cons:
- It’s not as versatile as other low-top shoes
Arcteryx Acrux SL
2
For something more on the minimalist side, we can’t recommend the Arcteryx Acrux SL enough. These shoes come with a Vibram sole. Apart from that, they’re also resistant to water and built to last. It doesn’t matter what kind of terrain you are facing; rock, dirt, or snow, the Acrux SL will perform well. And since this pair of gear is quite light, you can carry them as spare shoes!
Another thing that makes the Acrux SL stand out as approach shoes for climbing is its design. It’s quite unique, with a heel shape that provides excellent braking. However, there isn’t too much support here. So if you plan on carrying a lot of loads, we recommend looking at other shoes. But for scrambles and multi-pitch climbs, the Acrux SL is a fantastic alternative to consider.
What We Love
Minimalist shoes with waterproof ability and made from durable materials
Pros:
- Thermo-laminated construction
- Easy entry
- Integrated eyelet reinforcements
- 3D-molded OrthoLite
Cons:
- Doesn’t provide too much support
Vasque Grand Traverse
1
The Vasque Grand Traverse is made to be super comfortable. If you’ve ever had the discomfort of getting moist feet, you’ll be thankful that these shoes exist! That’s because Traverse comes with mesh panels to ensure optimal airflow. So any time you plan to go on a long climb, these shoes should be your go-to option.
However, that doesn’t mean that Traverse doesn’t come with shortcomings. First of all, they don’t provide much support. So if you want to go with a heavy load, we recommend looking for other climbing approach shoes. There’s sticky rubber around the toe box area, but it doesn’t help much to improve the climbing ability. But with that being said, Traverse is still a good alternative. Especially if you prioritize comfort and breathability.
What We Love
Super comfortable to wear and has multiple mesh panels for better breathability
Pros:
- Rubber sole
- Low-cut
- Dual-density EVA
- Grippy dual-compound Vibram Ibex outsole
Cons:
- Not so-satisfying climbing ability
