Are Approach Shoes Good For Hiking?

Are approach shoes good for hiking? It’s a question that many outdoor enthusiasts ask themselves when choosing the right footwear for their next adventure. Approach shoes, originally designed for rock climbers to approach the base of a climb, have become increasingly popular among hikers and backpackers.

Approach shoes are designed with a sticky rubber sole that provides excellent traction on rocky and technical terrain. They also have a low-cut design, which makes them more lightweight and breathable than traditional hiking boots. Some hikers prefer the flexibility and freedom of movement that approach shoes provide, as they allow for more natural foot movement and a better connection with the trail.

However, approach shoes are not without their drawbacks. They offer less support and protection than hiking boots, making them less suitable for carrying heavy loads or hiking on rough terrain. Additionally, their sticky rubber soles may wear down more quickly than the soles of hiking boots.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of using approach shoes for hiking, the types of terrain where they excel, and when it’s best to choose hiking boots instead.

What Are Approach Shoes?

Approach shoes: they’re not quite hiking boots, they’re not quite climbing shoes…so what are they? Simply put, approach shoes are the lovechild of hiking boots and climbing shoes, designed to provide a versatile footwear option for outdoor enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds.

Approach shoes typically feature a low-cut design and a sticky rubber sole that provides excellent traction on rocky and technical terrain. They’re designed to be lightweight and breathable, while still providing enough support and protection for approaches to climbing areas or scrambling over rocky trails.

Approach shoes have become increasingly popular among hikers, climbers, and backpackers who want a shoe that can handle a variety of activities without sacrificing performance or comfort. Whether you’re hiking to a climbing spot, scrambling up a rocky peak, or just hitting the trail for a day hike, approach shoes offer a versatile and reliable option for your feet.

In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at how approach shoes differ from hiking boots and what benefits they offer for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

READ MORE : “ Mid cut vs High cut hiking boots “

How Are Approach Shoes Different from Hiking Boots?

Approach shoes and hiking boots may seem similar at first glance, but they are actually quite different in several key ways. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between approach shoes and hiking boots, and what those differences mean for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Design and Materials:

Approach shoes are designed with a low-cut profile that allows for more freedom of movement in the ankle, making them more flexible and agile than hiking boots. They also feature a sticky rubber sole that provides excellent traction on rocky and technical terrain. 

The upper part of the shoe is typically made of a lightweight and breathable material such as mesh, which helps keep your feet cool and dry during hot weather or intense activity.

Hiking boots, on the other hand, are designed with a higher cut that provides more support and protection to the ankle. They feature a sturdier and more rigid sole that provides stability and cushioning on rough terrain. The upper part of the shoe is typically made of leather or synthetic materials, which offer more durability and protection against the elements.

Performance and Functionality :

Approach shoes are designed to be versatile and perform well in a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking to rock climbing to scrambling over rocky terrain. They offer excellent traction and grip, making them ideal for technical approaches to climbing areas or for traversing rocky trails. They’re also lightweight and breathable, making them a good option for warm weather or intense activity.

Hiking boots, on the other hand, are designed specifically for hiking and backpacking. They offer more support and protection to the foot and ankle, which is important when carrying heavy loads or hiking on rough terrain. They also offer more cushioning and stability, which can help prevent fatigue and injury on long hikes or backpacking trips.

Comparison Table

Here’s a quick comparison table summarizing the differences between approach shoes and hiking boots:

	Approach Shoes	Hiking Boots
Cut	Low-cut	High-cut
Sole	Sticky rubber	Sturdy and rigid
Upper Material	Lightweight and breathable (mesh)	Leather or synthetic
Performance	Versatile, good for technical approaches and scrambling	Designed specifically for hiking and backpacking
Support and Protection	Less support and protection than hiking boots	More support and protection than approach shoes
Weight	Lightweight	Heavier than approach shoes

In conclusion, approach shoes and hiking boots are both great options for outdoor enthusiasts, but they have different strengths and weaknesses depending on the activity and terrain. Approach shoes are more versatile and agile, while hiking boots offer more support and protection for hiking and backpacking. Choose the footwear that best fits your needs and enjoy your time on the trails!

READ MORE : “ Difference between hiking boots and hiking shoes “

Benefits of Using Approach Shoes for Hiking

Approach shoes may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering hiking footwear, but they offer a number of benefits that make them a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the advantages of using approach shoes for hiking.

Agility and Versatility:

One of the biggest benefits of approach shoes is their low-cut design and flexible sole, which allows for more natural foot movement and agility on the trail. This can be particularly useful when navigating technical terrain, scrambling over rocks, or crossing streams or rivers. Approach shoes are also versatile enough to be used for a variety of activities, including hiking, climbing, and backpacking.

Traction and Grip:

Approach shoes are designed with a sticky rubber sole that provides excellent traction and grip on rocky and technical terrain. This can help prevent slips and falls, even in wet or slippery conditions. The sole also features a climbing zone, which provides additional grip and traction when scrambling over rocks or climbing steep inclines.

Lightweight and Breathable:

Approach shoes are typically lighter and more breathable than hiking boots, which can be a big advantage in warm weather or during intense activity. The lightweight design also means less weight to carry on your feet, which can reduce fatigue and improve overall comfort on the trail.

Comfort and Fit:

Approach shoes are designed to be comfortable and offer a more natural fit than hiking boots, which can feel stiff or restrictive. They typically have a wider toe box and more flexible materials, which can help prevent blisters and hot spots on the feet. Many approach shoes also feature a cushioned midsole, which provides additional comfort and shock absorption.

Stylish and Fashionable:

Let’s face it, approach shoes just look cool. They’re a stylish and fashionable choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want to look good on the trail without sacrificing performance or functionality. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be worn for a variety of activities, making them a great investment for any outdoor enthusiast.

In conclusion, approach shoes offer a number of benefits for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, including agility, traction, lightweight design, comfort, and style. Whether you’re hiking to a climbing area, scrambling over rocky terrain, or just hitting the trail for a day hike, approach shoes are a versatile and reliable footwear option.

Drawbacks of Using Approach Shoes for Hiking

While approach shoes offer many benefits for hiking, there are also some potential drawbacks that should be considered before making a decision on what footwear to wear on the trails. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the drawbacks of using approach shoes for hiking.

Less Support and Protection:

One of the main drawbacks of approach shoes is that they offer less support and protection to the foot and ankle than hiking boots. The low-cut design of approach shoes may leave the ankle vulnerable to injury, particularly on rough or uneven terrain. Additionally, the flexible sole of approach shoes may not provide enough cushioning for the foot, which can lead to fatigue or discomfort on longer hikes or backpacking trips.

Less Durable:

Approach shoes are typically made with lightweight and breathable materials, which can make them less durable than hiking boots. The mesh upper, in particular, may be more susceptible to wear and tear from rocks or other obstacles on the trail. This can reduce the lifespan of the shoe and require more frequent replacements.

Less Warm and Weather-Resistant:

Because of their lightweight and breathable design, approach shoes may not be the best choice for colder or wetter weather. The mesh upper can allow water and moisture to penetrate the shoe, which can lead to cold, wet feet. Additionally, the flexible sole may not provide enough insulation for the foot in cold temperatures, which can increase the risk of hypothermia.

Limited Terrain:

While approach shoes are versatile enough to be used for a variety of activities, they may not be the best choice for all types of terrain. For example, if you’re hiking through deep snow or mud, you may want a shoe with more insulation or waterproofing than an approach shoe can provide. Additionally, if you’re carrying a heavy backpack or hiking on particularly rough or uneven terrain, you may want the additional support and protection of a hiking boot.

In conclusion, approach shoes are a great choice for many outdoor activities, including hiking. However, they do have some potential drawbacks to consider, including less support and protection, less durability, and limited suitability for certain weather or terrain conditions. Ultimately, the best footwear choice will depend on your personal needs, preferences, and the specific demands of your chosen activity.

Types of Terrain and Hikes Where Approach Shoes Excel

Approach shoes are versatile footwear that can excel in a variety of terrain and hiking conditions. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the types of terrain and hikes where approach shoes can be particularly well-suited.

Scrambling and Technical Terrain:

Approach shoes are an excellent choice for scrambling and technical terrain, such as rocky scrambles, boulder fields, and low-grade climbs. Their sticky rubber soles and climbing zones provide excellent traction and grip on rocky surfaces, while their low-cut design and flexible soles allow for natural foot movement and agility.

Approach Hikes:

As their name suggests, approach shoes are designed for approach hikes – the hikes you take to reach a climbing area or other outdoor activity. These hikes are typically short to moderate in length and require a shoe that can handle a mix of terrain, including rocky paths, loose gravel, and dirt trails. Approach shoes are lightweight, comfortable, and provide enough support and protection for these types of hikes.

Day Hikes:

For day hikes that don’t require heavy backpacks or extended periods of time on the trail, approach shoes can be a great choice. Their lightweight design and flexible soles make them comfortable for shorter hikes, while their traction and grip provide reliable footing on a variety of terrain.

Summer and Warm Weather Hikes:

Approach shoes are particularly well-suited for summer and warm weather hikes, when heavier hiking boots may be too hot and uncomfortable. Their breathable materials and low-cut design allow for ventilation and airflow, while their traction and grip provide reliable footing on dry, rocky terrain.

Travel:

Approach shoes can also be a great choice for travel, particularly when you’ll be doing a lot of walking or exploring on foot. Their versatile design allows them to be worn for a variety of activities, while their lightweight and compact size make them easy to pack and transport.

In conclusion, approach shoes can excel in a variety of terrain and hiking conditions, including scrambling and technical terrain, approach hikes, day hikes, summer and warm weather hikes, and travel. They offer a lightweight, comfortable, and versatile footwear option for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike.

When to Choose Hiking Boots Over Approach Shoes

While approach shoes can be an excellent choice for many hiking situations, there are times when hiking boots may be the better option. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the situations where hiking boots may be the superior choice.

Extended Backpacking Trips:

For extended backpacking trips where you’ll be carrying a heavy pack and spending multiple days on the trail, hiking boots are often the better choice. Hiking boots provide more support and protection to the foot and ankle than approach shoes, which can help prevent injury and fatigue over long distances and uneven terrain. Additionally, hiking boots often have stiffer midsoles and more cushioning, which can help absorb the shock of a heavy pack.

Wet or Cold Weather:

In wet or cold weather conditions, hiking boots are often the better choice over approach shoes. Hiking boots typically have waterproof or water-resistant materials that can help keep your feet dry in wet weather. Additionally, hiking boots often have more insulation, which can help keep your feet warm in cold temperatures.

Rough or Unstable Terrain:

For hikes on rough or unstable terrain, such as loose rock or scree slopes, hiking boots are often the better choice. Hiking boots provide more support and protection to the foot and ankle, which can help prevent injury on uneven or unstable surfaces. Additionally, hiking boots often have stiffer soles, which can provide better stability on rough terrain.

Heavy-Duty Trail Work:

If you’re doing heavy-duty trail work, such as building or maintaining trails, hiking boots are often the better choice. Hiking boots provide more support and protection to the foot and ankle, which can help prevent injury while carrying heavy tools or equipment. Additionally, hiking boots often have more durable materials and construction, which can withstand the wear and tear of trail work.

In conclusion, while approach shoes are a great choice for many hiking situations, there are times when hiking boots may be the better option. 

For extended backpacking trips, wet or cold weather, rough or unstable terrain, and heavy-duty trail work, hiking boots can provide more support, protection, and durability than approach shoes. Ultimately, the best footwear choice will depend on your personal needs, preferences, and the specific demands of your chosen activity.

Tips for Choosing and Using Approach Shoes for Hiking

Choosing and using the right approach shoes can make all the difference in your hiking experience. Here are some tips to help you choose and use approach shoes for hiking:

Consider the terrain and type of hiking you’ll be doing

Before purchasing approach shoes, consider the terrain and type of hiking you’ll be doing. Look for shoes with sticky rubber soles and climbing zones if you’ll be scrambling or climbing, and shoes with more durable materials and thicker soles if you’ll be hiking on rough or uneven terrain.

Look for a good fit

A good fit is crucial for any hiking shoe, including approach shoes. Make sure to try on shoes with the socks you plan to wear on your hikes, and walk around the store or on different surfaces to test the fit and comfort. Look for shoes with a snug fit but with enough room in the toe box for your toes to move.

Consider the weight of the shoes

Approach shoes are designed to be lightweight and flexible, but some models may be lighter than others. Consider the weight of the shoes and how it may affect your comfort and performance on the trail.

Break in your shoes before hitting the trail

Like any hiking shoe, approach shoes need to be broken in before hitting the trail. Wear them around the house or on shorter hikes to allow the shoes to conform to your feet and prevent blisters or discomfort.

Use gaiters for added protection

While approach shoes are designed to provide enough protection for most hiking situations, using gaiters can provide added protection from debris and dirt entering your shoes.

Maintain your shoes

Proper maintenance can prolong the life of your approach shoes. Clean them regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap, and let them air dry completely before storing them.

In conclusion, choosing and using the right approach shoes for hiking requires consideration of the terrain and type of hiking, finding a good fit, considering the weight of the shoes, breaking them in before hitting the trail, using gaiters for added protection, and proper maintenance. By following these tips, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable hiking experience in your approach shoes.

Top Approach Shoes for Hiking on the Market

Here are three top approach shoes for hiking on the market:

La Sportiva TX4

Features:

• Sticky Vibram® Megagrip rubber outsole for excellent traction
• Durable leather upper with protective rubber toe cap
• Climbing zone on the sole for technical approaches
• STB Control System for a snug and secure fit

Pros:

• Excellent traction on rocky terrain
• Durable and protective design
• Climbing zone allows for technical approaches
• Snug and secure fit for all-day comfort

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than some other approach shoes

READ MORE : “ Are La Sportiva boots good for hiking? “

Five Ten Guide Tennie

Features:

• Stealth® C4™ rubber outsole for superior grip
• Durable suede leather upper with protective rubber toe cap
• Compression-molded EVA midsole for cushioning and support
• Climbing zone on the sole for technical approaches

Pros:

• Exceptional grip on various surfaces, including wet rock
• Durable and protective design
• Comfortable and supportive midsole
• Climbing zone allows for technical approaches

Cons:

• May wear out quickly with heavy use

Scarpa Crux

Features:

• Vibram® Vertical Approach outsole for reliable traction
• Durable suede leather upper with protective toe rand
• EVA midsole for cushioning and support
• Climbing zone on the sole for technical approaches

Pros:

• Good traction on rocky terrain
• Durable and protective design
• Lightweight and comfortable for long hikes
• Climbing zone allows for technical approaches

Cons:

• May not be ideal for wider feet

In conclusion, the La Sportiva TX4, Five Ten Guide Tennie, and Scarpa Crux are all top approach shoes for hiking on the market, each with their own unique features, pros, and cons. When choosing an approach shoe for hiking, consider the terrain and type of hiking you’ll be doing, as well as your own personal preferences for fit and comfort.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, are approach shoes good for hiking? The answer is a resounding yes, with some important caveats. Approach shoes are designed specifically for technical approaches to climbing routes, but they have also proven to be highly effective for hiking in certain terrain.

Approach shoes provide excellent grip on rocky surfaces, allowing hikers to traverse technical terrain with ease. They also tend to be more lightweight and flexible than traditional hiking boots, providing greater comfort and mobility on long hikes. Additionally, the low-cut design of approach shoes allows for greater freedom of movement for the ankles, which can be a crucial factor for some hikers.

However, approach shoes are not ideal for all types of hiking. They may not provide enough support or protection for longer hikes with heavier packs, or for hikes in areas with loose or muddy terrain. Additionally, approach shoes may not be as breathable as hiking boots, making them less suitable for hot weather or high humidity environments.

Ultimately, whether approach shoes are good for hiking depends on the specific needs of the hiker and the terrain they will be traversing. For technical approaches and hikes on rocky terrain, approach shoes are a great option. However, for longer hikes with heavier packs or in more challenging terrain, traditional hiking boots may be a better choice.

FAQs

What is the difference between approach shoes and climbing shoes?

Approach shoes are designed for hiking and technical approaches to climbing routes, while climbing shoes are designed specifically for rock climbing, with a focus on precision and grip on small footholds.

Why are they called approach shoes?

Approach shoes are called so because they are primarily designed for the “approach” to a climbing route or a mountain summit, which involves hiking or traversing technical terrain before reaching the climb itself.

Are approach shoes good for everyday use?

Approach shoes can be comfortable and stylish, but their technical design may not be ideal for everyday use, as they may not provide enough support for extended walking or standing.