Read on for the best approach shoes for hiking.
Our Editor’s Best Approach Shoes For Hiking Reviews
Keen Men’s Jasper-m Hiking Shoe, Silver Mink, 10.5 M US
Key Features:
-
This is a shoe for hiking that is made from premium suede and has a mesh lining.
-
This approach to shoes for hiking provides a comfortable and secure fit for the shopper. The cork infused footbed forms to the foot’s natural shape for personalized comfort, and the tongue to toe lacing system provides a secure locked in fit no matter the activity.
-
The shoe is designed for comfort and style while hiking. It has a rock climbing inspired design with a pop of color.
-
This approach to shoes for hiking is designed to provide a secure fit and good traction without leaving any marks. The shoes have a non-marking rubber outsole and are contoured to fit the natural shape of the foot.
-
The shopper should expect a shoe that is built to last through many hikes and adventures. The shoe should be able to handle being dragged through dirt and rocks and not show too much wear.
La Sportiva Mens TX4 Approach/Hiking Shoes, Carbon/Flame, 12.5-13
Key Features:
-
The La Sportiva Mens TX4 is a comfortable and durable mens hiking shoe that is designed for long approaches on rugged terrain. This shoe offers excellent support and traction with leather durability.
-
This shoe is designed for hiking, with a leather upper to resist abrasion, protect the foot, and provide stability. The full rubber rand will keep the lower foot safe from sharp objects on the trail.
-
The shopper can expect the shoes to be a comfortable fit with plenty of stability for hiking.
-
The shopper can expect a shoe with a very sticky outsole that will provide good traction on a variety of surfaces. The toe of the shoe is also protected with a rubber cap.
-
The STB Control System in these shoes provides torsional rigidity and support without sacrificing underfoot cushioning. The to-the-toe lacing system provides a precision fit along the entire foot, while the rear cord loop lets you attach the shoes to your pack.
La Sportiva Womens TX4 Approach/Hiking Shoes, Carbon/Aqua, 7.5-8
Key Features:
-
The La Sportiva Womens TX4 is a comfortable and durable womens hiking shoe designed for long approaches on rugged terrain. It offers excellent support and traction with leather durability.
-
The leather upper material on these shoes for hiking increases abrasion resistance, foot protection and stability. Leather looks good both on and off the trail. Full surround rubber rand protects the lower foot from sharp trail hazards.
-
The approach shoes for hiking are true to size and have a wide forefoot fit for all day comfort and stability.
-
The Vibram Mega-Grip outsole provides confidence over a variety of rock and trail surfaces and the Vibram rubber toe cap protects the toes.
-
The STB Control System provides torsional rigidity and support while not sacrificing underfoot cushioning. This makes the shoe ideal for hikers who need a precise fit and want to be able to attach their shoes to their pack.
La Sportiva Mens TX Guide Leather Approach/Hiking Shoes, Clay/Kale, 12
Key Features:
-
The approach shoes for hiking are designed for men who want a shoe that is both comfortable and lightweight. The leather material provides support and stability, while the dual compound cushioning offers a comfortable ride.
-
The approach shoes for hiking are made with a combination of Nubuck and roughout leather to create an protective shoes that increases abrasion resistance and stability. The leather looks good both on and off the trail for a casual look.
-
The approach shoes for hiking are designed to fit snugly on medium to narrow width feet, with a padded tongue that enhances heel hold and keeps the foot secure.
-
The Vibram Mega-Grip and IdroGrip rubber compounds provide a sticky and confident grip over a variety of rock and trail surfaces. The heel and toe caps are lightweight and provide full protection.
-
The shoes have high cushioning in the heel for comfort, and lacing along the entire foot for a precise fit. There is also a heel loop for clipping the shoes to a harness.
Black Diamond Equipment – Men’s Technician Approach Shoes – Anthracite/Octane – Size 10
Key Features:
-
This shoe is designed for comfort and durability while hiking. The one piece knit upper is breathable to keep your feet cool, and the shoes are designed to withstand tough terrain.
-
This approach to shoes for hiking is designed for a shopper who wants a shoe with high-performance sticky rubber. The rubber is designed to grip the ground and provide traction on slippery or uneven surfaces.
-
This approach shoe for hiking has rubber toe protection to help keep your feet safe while you’re out on the trail.
-
This approach shoe is designed for both stiffness and comfort while hiking. It features a tuned EVA midsole to provide support and cushioning for your feet.
-
This approach shoe is designed for technical climbing, with a toe shape and upper construction that makes it ideal for that purpose.
La Sportiva Mens Boulder X Approach/Hiking Shoes, Clay/Saffron, 10
Key Features:
-
This pair of shoes is designed for comfort and performance while hiking on rocky or trail terrain. They feature a classic style and construction that is versatile and can be worn for a variety of activities.
-
This approach shoe for hiking has an all-leather upper material and a sticky rubber toe cap for durable protection.
-
The Boulder X shoes are designed to fit snugly yet still be true to size, with medium foot volume for stability on uneven ground.
-
The Vibrams Idrogrip sole provides confident traction on rock and trail and is sticky on every type of rock, even when wet. The solid EVA midsole above the 2mm polypropylene insole protects your feet on technical approaches.
-
The Sportivas full length Mythos lacing system offers a custom fit that can be easily adjusted. The rear tab makes it easier to pull on or clip to a carabiner.
adidas Men’s Terrex Swift R2 Gore-tex Hiking Walking Shoe, Night Cargo/Core Black/Base Green, 8
Key Features:
-
This approach shoe is designed for men who want to hike in waterproof shoes. They are made for day hikes and general outdoor use.
-
This approach shoe for hiking is designed for durability with a ripstop mesh upper and TPU overlays. The toe cap provides extra protection against wear and tear. The shoe is also breathable to keep your feet comfortable during strenuous activity.
-
The SNUG FEEL shoes for hiking have bungee laces for speed lacing, which makes it easier and faster to put on and take off the shoes.
-
This approach shoe for hiking has a GORE-TEX lining that is waterproof and breathable. This will keep your feet dry and comfortable while you are hiking in wet or humid conditions.
-
The shopper is looking for a pair of shoes that will provide good grip and traction while hiking. The shoes should also be comfortable and durable.
Vasque Men’s Juxt Multisport Shoe,Peat/Sudan Brown,10.5 M
Key Features:
-
The shopper is looking for a sporty shoe that is durable, stable, and comfortable for day hiking. This shoe should be able to handle different terrain and be able to provide support and traction.
-
This approach shoe has a 1.6mm suede leather upper. This is a durable material that will protect your feet from the elements and provide good support while hiking.
-
The lace system on these shoes is highly adjustable, allowing the wearer to get a snug, comfortable fit no matter how wide or narrow their feet may be. This is ideal for hikers, who need to be able to rely on their shoes to keep their feet stable and comfortable during long days on the trail.
-
The molded EVA and TPU Plate midsole provides stability for the shopper while hiking. The shoes are designed to provide comfort and support while hiking on various terrains.
-
This approach shoe for hiking has a Vasque Off the Grid rubber outsole for added comfort. This outsole is designed to provide cushioning and support for your feet while you are hiking, and it also has a traction pattern that can grip different types of terrain.
La Sportiva Womens Boulder X Approach/Hiking Shoes, Carbon/Beet, 8
Key Features:
-
The shoe is designed for comfort and performance while hiking and climbing. The shoe is versatile and can be used on different terrain.
-
This approach shoe is designed for durability and protection while hiking in the mountains. The all-leather upper material and sticky rubber toe cap offer protection from the elements and rough terrain.
-
The Boulder X shoes are designed to fit snugly on your feet, while still being true to size. They have medium foot volume to give you a secure feeling while walking on unstable ground.
-
The Vibrams Idrogrip sole is a sticky rubber compound that provides confident traction on rock and trail and stays sticky on every type of rock even when wet. The solid EVA midsole above the 2mm polypropylene insole keep your feet protected on technical approaches.
-
This approach shoe is good for hiking because it has a full length lacing system that runs down to the toe cap, which offers a custom fit. It also has a rear tab for easier pulling on or clipping to a carabiner.
La Sportiva Mens TX2 EVO Leather Approach/Hiking Shoes, Carbon/Goji, 10.5
Key Features:
-
This approach/hiking shoe is designed for men who want a shoe that is both lightweight and provides good support and traction. The shoe is also eco-friendly, making it a good choice for those who want to reduce their impact on the environment.
-
The shoes have a leather upper that is eco-friendly and biodegradable. The leather is also abrasion resistant and provides foot protection. The shoes have a casual look and the leather has a subtle pattern.
-
The shopper can expect the shoes to fit true to size and be best for medium width feet. The integrated tongue is designed to help keep the heel in place and the foot secure.
-
The Uber-sticky IdroGrip rubber compound provides confidence over a variety of wet and dry rock and trail surfaces. The TX2 Eco is designed to be easily re-soleable to extend the life and performance of the shoe. Lightweight heel and toe caps for full protection.
-
The shoes have a high cushion in the heel for comfort, and an asymmetrical lacing system for a precise fit. The C2 ComboCord elastic cord allows you to pair and store shoes compactly in your backpack or attach them to your harness.
Approach Shoes For Hiking FAQs
1. What are approach shoes and why are they different from regular hiking shoes?
Approach shoes are designed for scrambling and climbing on rock, as opposed to regular hiking shoes which are designed for walking on trails. Approach shoes are typically lighter and have a stickier rubber sole for better traction. They often have a climbers toe, which is a downturned toe that helps with precision when placing your foot on small holds.
2. What are the best features of approach shoes for hiking?
The best features of approach shoes for hiking are that they are lightweight, have a good grip, and are comfortable to wear.
3. How do approach shoes help with traction and stability on uneven terrain?
Most approach shoes have a lugged outsole, which helps with traction on uneven terrain, and a low-cut design, which helps with stability.
4. What are the benefits of using approach shoes for hiking in wet conditions?
Some benefits of using approach shoes for hiking in wet conditions are that they can provide better traction and stability on slippery surfaces, and they can also help to keep your feet dry.
5. How should approach shoes be broken in before hitting the trail?
There are a few ways to break in shoes before hitting the trail. One way is to wear them around the house for a few hours each day to get them comfortable. Another way is to walk around the block a few times or even take them out on a short hike.
Conclusion
There are many great approach shoes for hiking on the market. Our list of the best approach shoes for hiking will help you save time researching and choosing the best one for you.