Approach shoes by their very nature are versatile. Not only do they provide sticky grip on rocks, but they're designed for long days on the trail too. They’re the ultimate hybrid: part climbing shoe, part hiking boot and part trail runner. With a combination of sticky grip, supportive construction and all-day comfort, approach shoes are essential for adventurers tackling complex routes.
But which approach shoes are the best for your needs? Finding the right pair for your needs can be tricky. That’s why we’ve handpicked the best options available at REI, highlighting shoes that excel in different conditions. Whether you’re gearing up for short scrambles, long-haul treks or advanced climbs, there’s a perfect pair waiting for you.
We've got recommendations for both shorter and longer approaches, options that can pinch-hit for your rock shoes, and one that we think can do it all. So read on to find the perfect kicks for you.
Best All-Around Approach Shoes
La Sportiva TX4 EVO Approach Shoes
Upper Nubuck leather
Footwear closure Lace-up
Weight (pair) 1 lb. 8 oz. (women’s), 1 lb. 12 oz. (men’s)
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. 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 wall. “While climbing on stone, I felt my steps were steady [with] no slipping,” says one co-op customer-reviewer.
Thoughtful construction sets the TX4 EVO apart. Made with recycled materials—7% recycled EVA in the midsole and recycled fabrics in the mesh, tongue, laces and rubber rands—this shoe's environmental footprint is minimized without compromising durability. Plus, the new resole-friendly design makes it a more sustainable choice for climbers and hikers hoping to extend their gear’s lifespan.
The TX4 EVO has historically been friendly to wide-footed climbers, and that’s still the case—although the TX4 EVO runs narrower than in the past. The snug fit boosts control during technical maneuvers, but fit note: wide-footed adventurers might want to size up. “Great shoe if you're looking for something that feels firm underfoot. The narrow last means you will have to size up at the very least a half size,” says one customer-reviewer. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a hiker exploring new terrain, the La Sportiva TX4 EVO is an excellent choice for adventurers who value performance, comfort and sustainability features. Buy women’s. Buy men’s.
Best Approach Shoe for Technical Terrain
Arc'teryx Vertex Alpine GTX Approach Shoes
Upper CORDURA® recycled PES
Footwear Closure Lace-up
Weight (pair) 1 lb. 8 oz. (women’s), 1 lb. 8 oz. (men’s)
For climbers and hikers who demand precision and performance in rugged landscapes, you’ll do no better than the Arc'teryx Vertex Alpine GTX shoes. Designed to excel on rocky scrambles, steep inclines and burly alpine routes, these waterproof approach shoes combine lightweight agility with exceptional stability.
A woven upper reinforced with TPU overlays sheds abrasions but is still breathable, making these shoes perfect for long days under a warm sun. But the full GORE-TEX liner means you’re protected if you encounter rain or snow. The Vibram® XS Flash 2 outsole also delivers superior grip and edging power, ensuring confidence even on slippery or uneven surfaces. “I haven’t found better rubber than these that provide absolute confidence moving on slabs,” says one co-op customer-reviewer. No rubber break-in time needed. They scramble beautifully right out the box.”
Arc’teryx designed these with a tight fit for maximum precision during technical moves, but that does mean that sizing can be wonky—some reviewers recommend sizing up a half size. If you’re looking for a top-tier approach shoe built for serious technical challenges, this pair delivers unparalleled performance. Buy women's. Buy men's.
Other versions: women’s regular, men’s regular
Best Approach Shoe for Longer Hikes
Scarpa Crux Approach Shoes
Upper 1.8 mm suede
Footwear Closure Lace-up
Weight (pair) 1 lb. 6.8 oz. (women's), 1 lb. 12.8 oz. (men's)
If you're the friend at the trailhead who offers to haul that extra climbing rack, the Scarpa Crux approach shoes are for you thanks to a moderately stiff dual-density EVA midsole that pleased even the most discerning of the crew. "It's not painfully rigid like other approach shoes, but I still felt supported when shouldering monster loads to the crag," said one customer-reviewer after a mixed day of climbing in Washington's Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The crux of the Crux: It's a board-lasted shoe, which means the upper is attached to a flexible board that sits on top of the midsole and adds stability. A burly suede upper also adds support—and weight. While the Crux isn't the heaviest shoe we tested, we still aren't likely to clip it to our harness.
Like with others in this guide, Scarpa opts for a Vibram® Megagrip outsole—one of the stickiest—making the Crux a worthy contender on dry slabs and moderate climbing routes. But the comfortable (and somewhat flexible) midsole means it's not well suited for technical terrain: "These don't edge like a climbing shoe, so I can't use them on any routes with micro pockets," says a Canada-based wearer after a weekend in Ontario's Calabogie Crags.
Nice touch: The Crux fits well out of the box, an uncommon highlight for leather shoes. Credit the extra-padded tongue for the break-in-not-required. Still, the toe box isn't as wide as others in the list, and one reviewer reported heel slippage on steep terrain (but it was easily fixed with a thick sock). Buy women's. Buy men's.
Best Value Approach Shoes
La Sportiva Boulder X Approach Shoes
Upper Leather
Footwear Closure Lace-up
Weight (pair) 1 lb. 12.8 oz (women's), 2 lbs. 2 oz. (men's)
If you want a lot for a little, reach for the La Sportiva Boulder X. For one of the lowest prices in our test, you get a durable, sticky, comfy approach shoe that's perfectly adequate at all things. Dubbed "sturdy and robust" by one customer-reviewer, the Boulder X uses a beefy rubber rand to wrap and protect your feet, plus a fully leather upper. The Boulder X earns high praise for its unique lacing system (nicknamed the "Mythos"), which uses one long lace to pass around the ankle collar before continuing down the toe of the shoe for a precise and snug fit. "When you crank on these laces, it's like a bear hug for your foot," says one California-based climber. But fast-and-light they are not: The Boulder X is the heaviest boots in the bunch. Buy women's. Buy men's.
Approach Shoes: Buying Advice
What exactly are approach shoes and how are they different from hiking boots? Well, if hiking boots and rock climbing shoes had a baby, the result would be something like approach shoes. This hybrid shoe is designed for rock climbers who need to shoulder heavy loads of gear across rocky or varied terrain ("the approach") to reach climbing routes. But these versatile shoes can work just as well for hikers. So, what criteria should you consider when purchasing an approach shoe? Here are the key factors.
Consider traction
In general, approach shoes boast a softer rubber outsole than those found in hiking boots. Softer rubber is stickier and grips rocky surfaces better, so it's a requirement of approach shoes. However, the trade-off is that soft rubber wears down faster than harder rubber, and it is likely that you will burn through approach shoes quicker than your hiking boots.
Of course, the tread pattern matters too. Outsoles with shallow, smooth lugs provide more surface friction so they stick to dry rock better. Tread pattern with angular lugs (like the Scarpa Crux) hold better on wet rock or muddy trail conditions where a deeper bite promotes traction.
How much cushion do you want?
Before you buy, determine how you'll be using the shoes the most. Approach shoes with stiffer midsoles are better for climbing as they can support your weight on small ledges and cracks without folding over, but the lack of cushioning often causes foot fatigue while hiking long miles. If you're more focused on climbing, we recommend a stiffer approach shoe. If you think you need more of a hybrid shoe or one better suited for the hiking approach.
When it comes to shoes more suited to the actual approach, also consider how much weight you'll be hefting. If you think you'll be carrying a day pack or a modest load, prioritize breathability and weight (like the Arc’teryx Vertex Alpine). If, however, you plan to haul overnight loads or multiple racks, you may prefer the additional support of a more well-rounded shoe like the La Sportiva TX4 EVO.
Decide on the upper: synthetic or leather?
You'll typically see two materials used in the upper of approach shoes: leather or synthetic. Leather (like with the La Sportiva TX4 EVO) offers more durability and protection while also providing natural weather resistance. However, it weighs more than synthetic materials (like that with the Arc’teryx Vertex Alpine) and typically costs more too. While synthetic materials are prone to snagging and abrasions, they weigh less and are more breathable.
Finally, it's good to consider the fit. Synthetic shoes will fit true-to-form almost immediately, whereas leather tends to take longer to break in but will loosen over time.
Methodology
We polled REI staffers for their favorite approach shoes sold at REI Co-op, then vetted their nominations against purchase-verified online member reviews. These are their top choices.
Photography by William M. Rochfort, Jr. Will is a freelance writer and photographer based in Carbondale, Colorado. His hobbies include backpacking, bikepacking and skiing with his wife and daughter, but he is mainly known for his rare ability to double-fist milkshakes prior to meals. REI Co-op Member since 1998.
