[Bushcraft Bob]

Hey fellow climbers! I’ve been on quite the journey, not just on the rock faces, but through the world of approach shoes. You know, those magical pieces of footwear that bridge the gap between the trail and the boulder. After countless hikes and a few questionable decisions involving wet rocks and questionable traction, I’ve compiled my thoughts on three of my favorite pairs.

In this post, I’ll be sharing three mini reviews of my top picks, plus a little buyer’s guide to help you choose the perfect shoes for your adventures. So grab a snack, kick off your shoes (but not your approach shoes!), and let’s dive into the world of sticky rubber and comfy soles.

• La Sportiva TX4
• Five Ten Guide Tennie
• Scarpa Crux

[Bushcraft Bob]

La Sportiva TX4

Hey fellow climbers and mountaineers!

I just wanted to drop in my two cents on the La Sportiva TX4 approach shoes. These bad boys have been my trusty companions for quite some time now, and I think I’ve put them through enough dirt and rock to give a solid review. So grab a cup of coffee (or a chalk bag), and let’s dive into it!

• Comfort: Slipping these on feels like wrapping your tired feet in tiny, supportive armchairs. They hug your foot just right, providing a comfort level that makes those long approaches much more bearable. I once wore them on a multi-day hike in the Italian Dolomites, and let me tell you, my feet felt like they were on a spa day while my legs were questioning my life choices.
• Durability: I’ve taken these shoes through mud, rain, and even the occasional rogue squirrel encounter, and they’ve held up incredibly well. The leather upper and toe cap do a fantastic job fending off abrasions. Let’s just say that if they were an animal, they’d probably be a honey badger. You know, because they just don’t care about rough terrain.
• Performance: The sticky rubber sole grips onto rocks like a gecko on caffeine. I never felt any slippage, even when scrambling up those tricky parts where my mom would definitely tell me to be careful (hi mom!). On a recent trek to Zion, the traction was so good, I briefly considered running away to join the local mountain goat tribe.
• Style: Okay, I know it’s not a fashion show on the mountain, but let’s be honest, looking good while climbing doesn’t hurt. The TX4s have a sleek, minimalist design that complements any outdoor gear ensemble. Plus, I have it on good authority that my hiking buddies only invite me along for my stylish foot attire. 😎

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for dependable approach shoes that can keep up with your adventurous spirit, then give the La Sportiva TX4 a whirl. They might just become your new best friend on rock-laden paths. Oh, and pro-tip: buy two pairs, because when your climbing partner “borrows” them, you won’t be getting them back anytime soon!

Feel free to ask any questions or share your own experiences with the TX4s. Let’s keep climbing to greater heights together!

[Bushcraft Bob]

Five Ten Guide Tennie

Ah, the Five Ten Guide Tennie, a piece of gear that’s practically a legend among climbers and mountaineering enthusiasts alike! Let’s dive into why these shoes are my go-to for both vertical and horizontal adventures.

First off, I have to say that slipping on a pair of these is like reuniting with an old friend—comfortable, dependable, and somehow always there when you need them. I remember the first time I wore them; it was on a particularly unforgiving approach that had me questioning my life choices. But the Guide Tennie never faltered, gripping onto slick rocks and loose dirt like a mountain goat in climbing armor.

Grip—oh, the grip! It’s like they’ve got tiny but mighty suction cups at the bottom. Whether on slippery rocks or wet surfaces, these shoes have kept me upright, saving me from more unplanned slides than I care to admit. If I’m being honest, I’ve even worn them to impromptu grocery store runs when I needed that extra stick.

The comfort is unparalleled, yet they still feel rugged. My feet are notorious divas, especially on lengthy treks, but the Guide Tennie’s cushiony embrace cradles them without fail. I have trudged through water, mud, and an odd snow patch—all while my feet remained cozy and dry. It’s like these shoes whisper sweet nothings to my arches.

Here’s a fun little anecdote: I once accidentally wore them to a wedding after forgetting to pack dress shoes! Nobody noticed because, let’s be real, everyone was too focused on the cake (and possibly the climbing chalk smudges on my shirt).

• Traction: It’s like Spiderman decided to become a cobbler.
• Durability: Indeed, these are the Chuck Norris of approach shoes.
• Style: Who knew function could look this good?

I also appreciate how versatile they are. From mild trails to serious climbs, the Guide Tennies have handled it all. I’ve used them mostly on rocky approaches, but a friend swears by them for easy bouldering. I guess versatility runs in the family, as these guys have tackled most terrains with glee.

So there you have it. Next time you’re looking for your adventure partner in the form of footwear, consider inviting the Five Ten Guide Tennie along. Who needs a trusty steed when you’ve got these bad boys?

[Bushcraft Bob]

Scarpa Crux

Hey folks,

I thought I’d share my thoughts on the Scarpa Crux after quite a few adventures together. If you’d spotted me on the trails recently, you’d probably have seen me prancing around like a (somewhat awkward) mountain goat, thanks to these trusty shoes.

First of all, let’s talk about comfort. If shoe comfort was a love language, the Crux would be serenading me with a cheesy ballad. They fit like a glove right out of the box. Alright, maybe not like a glove, more like a perfectly worn-in pair of slippers… that you trust with your life in the mountains.

Traction? Oh, the places you’ll go! Seriously, the shoes grip like a needy ex. I took them out on a soggy day hike, expecting to slip-n-slide as per usual. But guess what? I felt as stable as a lifelong house cat walking on Grandma’s finest lace doilies. The Vibram® soles are like magic magnets for rocks.

A word on durability: imagine Keith Richards as your next climbing shoe. Yes, they are as resilient as Keith. After countless scrambles, the Scarpa Crux barely shows signs of wear, aside from the scent, which we’ll lovingly refer to as “authentic mountain musk.”

Now, if there’s one thing that had me humming a different tune, it was the lacing system. It’s a love-hate affair. It’s great for getting that perfect snug fit but can be a pain to adjust mid-rock face when your partner is yelling, “Next hand!” and your laces are tighter than a bank vault.

In summary, the Scarpa Crux is the kind of shoe you take home to meet your mother. They’re reliable, versatile, and have been with me through thick and thin rock. If you’re considering a pair, I’d say go for it but be prepared to introduce them to your whole climbing crew. They’re basically the “cool kid” at the shoe party.

Happy climbing, everyone! Any thoughts from you guys?

[Bushcraft Bob]

Best Approach Shoes Buyer’s Guide

So you’ve decided to dive into the rock-hopping, trail-scrambling world of approach shoes—excellent choice! As someone who’s spent more time than I’d like to admit debating the finer points of sticky rubber and toe protection, I’m thrilled to guide you through this crucial gear decision. Pull up a chair, and let’s get started.

Approach shoes, my friends, are the awkward but lovable cousins of climbing shoes and hiking boots. They’re uniquely designed to get you from car trunk to crag with as little swearing and toe-stubbing as possible. Here’s what you should look for before making that all-important purchase:

• Fit and Comfort: First things first—try them on! Trust me, I once bought an “awesome” pair purely based on online reviews, only to end up with blistered heels that looked like I’d trekked through Mordor. They should fit snugly but not so tightly that your toes feel strangled. Look for a balance here, as you may be wearing them on mile-long approach trails.
• Sole and Grip: The stickier, the better! Approach shoes usually boast rubber soles borrowed from climbing shoes, which can get you scrambling over precarious boulders with Spiderman-like confidence. Just beware of wet, mossy surfaces unless you want your dignity to slide away quicker than a greased weasel.
• Protection: Good approach shoes will protect those precious toes of yours with rubber rands and reinforced uppers. Ever encountered a rogue tree root or jagged rock? Yeah, your big toe will thank you when it’s shielded by robust armor.
• Weight: While hefty hiking boots feel like you’re wearing ankle weights, approach shoes are mostly lighter. A pair that’s too heavy will have you questioning your life choices two miles into your hike. Trust me, make portability your friend.
• Breathability: Sweaty feet can ruin anyone’s day, so look for breathable materials. A pair that airs out well is a gift that keeps on giving—especially when you’re cramming them into your pack next to yesterday’s leftover sandwich.
• Style: Okay, this might not be as important as, say, not slipping off the edge of a cliff, but who doesn’t want to look good while conquering nature? Whether you’re into bright colors that scream “Look at me, I’m adventurous!” or muted tones that whisper “I’m one with nature,” there’s a style out there for you.

And while I have you here, a word to the wise: Don’t forget that breaking in your approach shoes before a big journey is as essential as remembering snacks. No one wants to spend their epic climbing day complaining about sore feet and dreaming about their well-worn slippers back home.

So, put your best foot forward (literally) and choose wisely, folks! Here’s to many happy trails and safe climbs up the rock faces that await!

[Gear Vids]

A great review of the top pick for best approach shoe, the La Sportiva TX4

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