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Approach Shoes

Footwear Built for the Approach

Approach shoes bridge the gap between hiking boots and climbing shoes, giving you grip, stability, and comfort on rugged terrain. Designed for rocky trails, scrambles, and long approaches to the climb, they deliver performance where regular hikers fall short. Lightweight yet durable, these shoes are guide-trusted for getting you to the wall or alpine route with confidence.

Our Current Favorite

Men's Spin Planet Trail Running Shoes

$159.00 USD

Guide Picks

Skip the browsing and pick from the cream of the crop. Like our tagline says - We Simplify Outfitting.

La Sportiva

Men's TX4 Evo Approach Shoes

$189.00 USD

La Sportiva

Women's TX4 Evo Approach Shoes

$189.00 USD

Sold out

La Sportiva

Mutant Trail-Running Shoes

$185.00 USD

Your Buying Guide For

Approach Shoes

Choosing approach shoes comes down to where you’re headed, how much gear you’re carrying, and how technical the approach will be. Here are some quick answers to common questions.

Still have questions? Feel free to reach out!

How are approach shoes different from hiking boots?

Approach shoes combine the grip of climbing shoes with the comfort and support of hikers. They excel on rocky scrambles, talus fields, and technical approaches where traction and precision matter. They're also a lot lighter and easier to stash in your pack if you're planning on transitioning to climbing or ski boots later in the trip.

Are approach shoes good for everyday hiking?

While they can handle trails, approach shoes are optimized for rock and mixed terrain. For long backpacking trips on dirt trails, hikers or boots may be more comfortable. Use approach shoes when scrambling and stability are priorities.

Should I size approach shoes tight like climbing shoes?

Not quite. Many climbers prefer a snug but not painful fit for scrambling and edging, with enough room for comfort on long hikes. Think performance fit, but with all-day wearability in mind.

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