Best Approach Shoes For Hiking – Reviews & Buying Guide

Climbing has always been my passion since I was old enough to jump on a climbing wall. Although climbing shoes are great for the actual climbing, I always struggled to find the right shoes for approaching the climb. Another issue I had was that I needed to carry two pairs of shoes with me when I wanted to have a lightweight bag. Approach shoes eliminated both of those issues and I have never been able to turn back since.

The versatility of approach shoes gives you a hybrid between hiking boots and climbing shoes. It makes my climbing trips much more enjoyable because I only have to take one pair of shoes when I go out. Not only does it make my bag lighter, but it also gives me extra grip and traction when going through different terrains. There are so many different features to choose from as well which gives me the ability to choose a pair that is better for a certain climbing condition.

I invested in more than one pair of approach shoes because I enjoy hiking and climbing in different environments and conditions. These last few years of climbing have been so amazing that I decided to make a list of my favorite approach shoes.

Top 10 Best Approach Shoes For Hiking

01 Five Ten Men’s Guide Tennie Approach Shoes

As the top model available for men, Five Ten Men’s Tennie Approach Shoes will keep you comfortable and supported throughout your hike. They are made out of leather with a synthetic sole to protect your feet. The lace-up closure allows you to decide how tight you want the fit to be. With a 4-star rating and affordable price, the Five Ten won’t disappoint you.

Many different sizes are available to choose from and we found that the dotted outsole gave us a good grip when climbing. The padded tongue and collar make them much more comfortable than they look. A hand-ground climbing toe offers superior support when climbing and edging. The Five Tens are ideal for these purposes as well as hiking.

At 14.3 oz., they are midweight to allow you to carry them if you want to change shoes. Their weight also makes hiking and climbing easier because there won’t be too much weight holding your feet down. We were able to waterproof them easily making them even more beneficial for your needs.

Leather is great for durability and so the Men’s Tennie Approach Shoes will last you many years. Unfortunately, this comes at the expense of breathability issues, but durability and stability are advantages. Other products on this list use mesh instead of leather to make them more breathable, but at the expense of durability.

Finally, a 12-month warranty will keep you covered while you hike and climb your problems away. The price and quality of the Five Ten Men’s Tennies will keep you satisfied for years until you replace them with a new pair.

Specifications

Pros

• Durable
• Comfortable
• 12-month warranty
• Leather upper
• Affordable

Cons

• Not as breathable
• Not as flexible

Our Remarks

The Five Ten Men’s Tennies are heavy-duty making them high on the durability scale. They will last many years and are worth the price that you pay. The warranty is another advantage that comes included in your purchase. They are ideal for trails that are smoother and don’t require a lot of foot bending because of their flatter design.

All in all, these are the most exclusive approach shoes available for men today and will be a good addition to your hiking or climbing gear.

02 Vasque Women’s Grand Traverse

As the best approach shoes for women, the Grand Traverse is ideal for day hiking. With sticky rubber outsoles, you can grip onto many rocky and smooth surfaces. Made of both leather and mesh, they have the advantage of being durable and breathable at the same time. These features work together to provide comfort and breathability without neglecting durability.

The lace-up closure allows you to adjust your feet depending on how stable you need them to be. Midweight and highly supportive, you will be able to tread through any terrain that is presented to you. The upturned toe makes edging difficult but gives your toes much more protection and the ability to bend your feet more. The low price of the Grand Traverse mixed with the 1-year warranty makes them a great investment.

The curved build is different from flatter options on this list making it a more flexible yet durable model. The low mesh content of the upper allows for some breathability without having to compromise the durability of leather. It also adds flexibility to the list of advantages, allowing you to hike over rougher terrain.

The 4-star rating proves how functional the Grand Transverse is which we discovered when approaching our climbing spot. They are better for females because they are designed to fit smaller feet without causing your feet to move when hiking. Synthetic soles add the much-needed comfort to the Grand Traverse. With their weight making them easy to carry when you aren’t using them, they will fit well with your hiking gear.

Specifications

Pros

• Lace-up closure
• 1-year warranty
• Midweight
• Breathable
• Comfortable

Cons

• Not good for edging and climbing

Our Remarks

Although they are not great for climbing and edging, the rand Transverse is perfect for approaches. Breathability and durability make them much more comfortable and last a long time. The 1-year warranty proves Vasque’s confidence in their product and makes sure that you can hike without worrying about protecting your shoes.

Overall, these are the best approach shoes for women, and it can be proven by giving them a try. Affordable and available in various sizes, you will not be disappointed with this purchase.

03 Adidas Terrex Swift Solo

The wider design of the Terrex Swift makes them a unisex model that you can rely on no matter what outdoor endeavor you choose. Adidas is a reliable brand that prides itself in good quality footwear proven by the 1-year warranty. The synthetic sole adds comfort without compromising durability and functionality. Being midweight, they are heavier than other models, but still great for hiking and climbing.

The breathable mesh that makes up the upper of these shoes will keep your feet cool and dry. It also offers more flexibility, but it can affect the longevity if you use them for tougher terrain often. The variety of sizes and beautiful designs will keep you looking stylish even when you are sweaty while hiking. As an added precaution, abrasion-resistant welding will support and protect your feet while you are hiking.

The slightly curved toe makes it easier to bend your feet, but it makes it more difficult to edge comfortably. A rubber cap over the toe box will prevent you from injury if you are hiking through rocky trails and terrain. Using the wheel loop, we could easily don and doff the Terrex Swift without hassle. The comfortable tongue will prevent your feet from slipping when you are walking.

Even though there’s not as much cushion as other models have, they will still leave your feet feeling fine after a long day of walking. The flat, stiff sole, and sticky outsole give you superior grip when hiking on both smooth and more rocky terrain. These shoes will last you many years even if you hike on severely rough terrain.

Specifications

Pros

• Breathable
• 1-year warranty
• Midweight
• Unisex
• Durable

Cons

• Not great for edging
• Not a lot of padding

Our Remarks

The Adidas Terrex Swift Solo has an amazing design with superior breathability and comfort. Sticky outsoles and a mesh upper will grip on almost every surface while allowing air to circulate around your feet. The drier your feet are, the less likely they are to move inside the shoes while you approach your climbing spot.

A great warranty period and affordable price add to the list of great advantages that come with this pair and you won’t be sorry for spending your money on it.

04 Skechers Men’s Go Golf Elite 3 Approach Shoes

Originally designed for golfing, these are for golfers who also enjoy hiking and climbing. The Rubber spikes on the outsole help you grip into the ground when approaching your climbing spot. Made using 100% leather, they are stable but not as breathable as other products on this list. The stiff midsole and upper make them much more durable and functional on flat trails.

The affordable price and gorgeous design are more reasons to invest in a pair of Golf Elite 3s for both your golfing and approaching needs. A downside to them is that they are heavy-duty and will be more difficult to bend your feet if you want to climb. They are stiff enough to be ideal for flat trails that don’t involve much climbing. You can remove the insole if you prefer more cushioning for added comfort.

Some advantages that aren’t found in all designs are water-resistance and the fact that they are lightweight. Being waterproof, you can use them to walk through small streams or creeks when approaching your climbing trail. They are not great for edging because of their lack of flexibility, but in all other aspects, they are second-to-none. We found them to be amazingly comfortable with the insole that it arrives with.

Easy cleaning is a pro of leather shoes because you can simply wipe them clean after using them. There is enough wiggle room in the toe box to keep your toes comfortable while fitting your feet just right. Finally, a 2-year warranty shows the confidence that Skechers has in its products which makes them easier to wear for rough terrain.

Specifications

Pros

• 2-year international warranty
• Lace-up closure
• Waterproof
• Lightweight
• Good grip

Cons

• Not as flexible
• Not as breathable

Our Remarks

Multi-use footwear has more advantages than others because they can be used for both golfing and hiking. The fact that they are waterproof makes them great for wet conditions or surprise rain when you are approaching your climb. Stiff enough to provide great stability, you are less likely to injure yourself when wearing them.

Coming at an affordable price with a 2-year international warranty is another reason why you should invest in this great pair of shoes.

05 Salewa Wildfire Approach Shoes

The textured soles of the Wildfire make them perfect for hiking to your climbing point. Loose gravel and small boulders are no match for this footwear and the breathability keeps you cool and dry. The upper is made entirely out of mesh which is why they are so breathable. The lining is also made of mesh for even more air circulation while you are hiking in hot or humid conditions.

An interesting feature of this model is that it is vegan which you won’t always find on other shoes on this list. Because they are not waterproof, it is better that you don’t use them for wet conditions or rainy weather. A flat design ensures that you can use them for almost any terrain, but it is not as easy to bend your toes. The mesh makes up for the midsole’s lack of flexibility giving you plenty of wiggle room.

Traverses and scrambles can also be hiked on using the Salewa Wildfire because of the lugs attached to the outsole. The insole is synthetic but comfortably padded for a great technical hike. Laces make the fit easily adjustable and we had no issue tightening and loosening them according to the terrain we were hiking. Superior grip prevents slipping even in situations with extremely loose gravel.

Affordability is an advantage and it comes with a 2-year limited warranty included in the price. Not only do the laces make them adjustable, but these climbing laces to prevent you from stepping on them in more dangerous situations. This prevents you from tripping as well as making them more comfortable for all hiking trails.

Specifications

Pros

• Comfortable
• Breathable
• 2-year limited warranty
• Midweight
• Textured outsole

Cons

• Not as flexible
• Not waterproof

Our Remarks

The Salewa Wildfire is the best model available for hiking even though it can be used for small climbs. Comfort and durability are some of the key features of them and they can be used in many different conditions. Breathability is important and hiking in hot weather will not be a disadvantage.

The 2-year warranty and low price are more reasons to invest in these versatile approach shoes. Although they are designed for men, women can also benefit from the Wildfire.

06 La Sportiva Men’s Boulder X Approach Shoes

As one of the most affordable options on our list, this is also great for climbing. The lug design gives you the ability to firmly grip rock while climbing. It also makes them ideal for other surfaces that you might come across on your approach. The leather upper is comfortable and fits well around your feet while offering enough wiggle room. Lace-up closure is great for adjusting the fit of the shoes when you change the terrain.

Although designed for men, the Boulder X can be worn by anyone if the fit is right. They are not the most lightweight in comparison to other options, but they are more durable than some. Durability adds stability so that you don’t injure yourself at any time while hiking and climbing. For more protection, a rubber toe guard is built to keep your toes from being stubbed.

A great feature we discovered was that there is a mesh lining the tongue and heel for some air circulation. The reason this is for climbing is that the sole is sticky on all surfaces including wet ones. The shoes themselves are not waterproof, but the sole will grip on damp rock in wet conditions. With a padded collar, not many other brands can compare to the comfort of the Boulder X.

We found that the padding was perfect for climbing in comfort and we didn’t need to change the insoles. Braking power is also a huge advantage of the lugs that come on this footwear as well as a reduction in impact. Finally, the 1-year warranty keeps you covered for any manufacturer’s defects or problems with arrival.

Specifications

Pros

• Low cost
• Durable
• 1-year limited warranty
• Comfortable
• Brake technology

Cons

• Heavier
• Less breathable

Our Remarks

Affordability and durability are the main advantages of the Boulder X, including the toe guard. Comfort is also important, and your feet will be left feeling better at the end of a hike or climb. These are by far the best approach shoes for climbing, but they are just as good for approaching or hiking.

A 1-year warranty keeps you covered when you are out kicking rocks and gripping onto mountainsides. Comfort mixed with protection is what we are all looking for.

07 Vasque Men’s Grand Traverse

With a wider fit and the comfort of athletic shoes, you will be able to use the Grand Traverse on a variety of terrains. The rubber outsole will grip well on loose gravel and flat or rough rock making it easy to approach and climb. A durable upper is made up of leather to keep your feet safe and protected in every environment. The toe cap is abrasion resistant which gives them added longevity and protects your toes more.

Some of the sections are made up of a breathable mesh that will let air circulate to keep your feet cool and dry. Not only does this add to comfort, but it prevents you from sliding around in the shoes when you are in a tense position. The well-cushioned footbed allows the shoes to mold to the shape of your foot very slightly, which makes it easier for you to walk in. You are unlikely to slip off of any surface when snuggly fitted into the Grand Traverse.

The interesting design makes them nice to look at as well as super-functional in many conditions. It might not be waterproof, but we could easily use a waterproofing agent on the leather sections of the shoe. The mesh sections make it easier to flex your foot inside the shoe when you need to stretch or fit them into smaller, more awkward spaces. Your walking and climbing speed will also increase if you invest in this great footgear.

To add to the list of pros, a 1-year limited warranty will prevent you from holding back when climbing tough terrain. A disadvantage is that the price increases with size, but if you have smaller feet this is a cheap option.

Specifications

Pros

• 1-year warranty
• Lightweight
• Abrasion-resistant toe guard
• Affordable
• DurablePrice increases with size

Cons

• Price increases with size
• Needs waterproofing

Our Remarks

Anyone, including women, will benefit from this purchase especially if you need protection. The slightly curved toe and padded insole make them much more comfortable than some other options. They are affordable as well which is all we can ask for when we need new climbing or hiking gear.

Adjusting the fit can be a great advantage if you need to change it for different terrains. With a 1-year warranty, this is an investment you won’t regret.

08 Evolv Cruzer Approach Shoe

This product has the most unique design in comparison to the other options on our list. It is made using cotton canvas which adds comfort and breathability. It does take away from water-resistance and durability on tough terrain, unfortunately. The mixture between lace-up and slip-on closure makes them easy to don and doff and adjustable at the same time. You can change the fit according to the terrain that you are hiking on.

This model is ideal for walking and hiking because they are not stiff enough to fully support your feet when climbing. The insoles are cushy and give you some much-needed comfort when you are hiking long approaches. An interesting advantage is that you do not need to put on socks before wearing these shoes. If you want to use them as slippers, you can fold down the heel and easily slip them on.

Evolv has added some unique features to this product which is what makes it so appealing. You don’t usually find these features in other options available on the market. They are unisex so will fit anyone well once they have chosen the right size. The heel tag made it easy for us to slip them on if they are tighter fitting. Stability is not a strong factor of the Cruzer because the heel section is a bit lower than with other footgear.

Finally, a 2-year limited warranty will make sure that your investment is safe and at such an affordable price you will be glad you bought them. The sticky soles, durability, and breathability are all features of great approach shoes.

Specifications

Pros

• Breathable
• Comfortable
• 2-year limited warranty
• Flexible
• Unisex

Cons

• Not waterproof
• Not great for climbing

Our Remarks

If you want to look stylish and hike in comfort you will benefit greatly from the Evolv Cruiser. Breathable and comfortable, you can wear them without socks because of the air circulation around your feet. They are incredibly easy to put on and take off with the heel tab and their slipper feature is also a unique addition.

Coming at an affordable price that includes a 2-year limited warranty is just another reason for you to choose this footwear. Remember that it isn’t waterproof, but you could use an agent to make it water-resistant.

09 Salewa Men’s Firetail 3 GTX Approach Shoes

Superior breathability and comfort are what you will experience when you buy the Firetail 3s.  The mesh upper gives enough openings for air circulation to keep your feet comfortably cool and dry. The lining and the coated fabric makes these shoes waterproof for use in wet conditions or during rainy weather. The climbing lacing goes right to the toes ensuring that you can adjust them to fit you well.

The extremely durable design makes sure that they will last you for many years to come without real damage. The 3F total system is something that you don’t see in all other options on our list and it is designed to stabilize your feet when you walk. If your feet are more stable, you are less likely to hurt yourself or slip. A sticky sole with the Megagrip compound prevents you from sliding off of any surface.

Ideal hiking terrains for shoes like these are alpine mountains and any approach to climbing points. They will withstand smooth, wet rock, as well as loose gravel and small boulders. They are one of the more expensive selections available, but well worth the money that you will spend. The arch is very slight so it can still be used for edging, but it won’t be as effective as flatter shoes.

Although it is designed for men, women with wider or larger feet can also wear these. They are a good component of great hiking or climbing kit and you will be the envy of your friends. We thought that these were really amazing in terms of water-resistance and you can walk through small creeks while wearing them.

Specifications

Pros

• Breathable
• Waterproof
• 2-year limited warranty
• Midweight
• Durable

Cons

• More expensive
• Not as flexible

Our Remarks

Not only are they waterproof, but they are durable at the same time so will last you a very long time. Even after a few bumps and scrapes, they will perform amazingly, and it is unlikely that they will ever let you down. The stability it offers your feet when you hike is another needed advantage to make sure that you are protected.

A bit more expensive than some of the other options, they are made using high-quality material that is unlikely to be damaged as quickly. The terrain that you will hike will affect the longevity of the Firetail 3.

10 La Sportiva TX4 Approach Shoes

Durability is a great feature of the leather TX4s and they will last for a long time. The lace-up closure allows you to adjust fit according to the conditions you are hiking in and the terrain you come across. They are a much more expensive option on our list, but the price reflects the quality. The lining is made of non-slip mesh to prevent your feet from moving inside the shoes during tense climbs.

Made for both men and women, it can benefit any feet size and width while being comfortable at the same time. The insole is synthetic but breathable and comfortable to keep your feet padded as you tread on harsh terrain. A compression-molded midsole is designed to fit around your feet to make them unique to you. Leather is great for durability, but it compromises breathability which can be uncomfortable in hot weather.

We found it easy to waterproof these shoes with a waterproofing agent giving us the ability to walk through small creeks and streams. The leather is not only durable but abrasion resistant in terrain with loose rocks and gravel. Rubber toe rands protect your toes when loose stones and rocks fall on them as you hike or climb. It also protects your toes from being stubbed as you approach the start of your climbing trail.

The 1-year limited warranty reduces your anxiety about giving your all when you are out climbing. Great traction, durability, and comfort are all advantages of the TX4 that you don’t always find in other options.

Specifications

Pros

• 1-year limited warranty
• Adjustable laces
• Non-slip lining
• Molded midsole
• Abrasion-resistant

Cons

• More expensive
• Not as breathable

Our Remarks

This stiff and durable product will make a good addition to your hiking and climbing routine. They are unisex and will fit all feet if you get the right size. Comfort is important and you will find your feet feeling as if you never went hiking in the first place. By making them water-resistant, you will give it another feature that is helpful on a hiking trip.

The price is more expensive than others, but it comes with a 1-year warranty to prove that the brand has confidence in their shoes.

Best Approach Shoes for Hiking – Buying Guide

1. Style

Choosing the right style depends on everything from durability to climbing ability. Buy the style that is designed for your needs whether it be hiking, climbing, or both.

2. Upper Materials

Rubber outsoles are connected to the upper. The upper is what offers breathability and can affect durability and water-resistance as well. Mesh is the most breathable, while leather is more durable and better for protection.

3. Outsoles and Traction

Different outsole designs offer better traction in different climbing environments. Dotted models are great for rock climbing, whereas sharp tread designs allow better traction in snowy or wet environments.

4. Fit and Sizing

If you need them to grip better when climbing, we recommend a tighter fit. They will not be as comfortable as looser versions, but they allow you to perform better.

5. Edging

 Flat Rubber patches are attached under the area of the shoes that houses the big toe. These are perfect for edging and can be used for climbing and hiking as well.

6. Waterproofing

In most cases, you will wait until it is good weather before climbing, but waterproofing is still important. If it starts raining or you come across a small stream, this feature will come in handy.

7. Breathability

 While keeping your feet cool and somewhat dry is a priority, shoes with more breathability can have disadvantages. They are more likely to let dirt and small stones in, which will irritate your feet.

8. Weight

The weight of your shoes is important when you need to hike or climb for a long time. Lightweight versions are much better if you will be carrying them often, but the downside is that they are not as strong.

9. Stiffness and Stability

Having internal support is an advantage when you are hiking or climbing on terrain that is more technical. At the same time, they are flexible enough to bend but be stable.

 10. Toe Protection

Models with a rand extending over the entirety of the toe box will keep your toes protected. They also allow you more traction when climbing over rocks and boulders.

11. Functionality and Performance

It is obvious that if you use hiking-oriented approach shoes for climbing, they won’t be as functional. Look at the style and other features of these shoes to find the right fit for you.

12. Comfort

Having a comfortable climb is important, but too much comfort can detract from functionality. If you are primarily on flatter trails and not climbing too much, a more comfortable fit is ideal.

13. Durability

When you invest in this type of footwear, you will want to use them for as long as you can. The more durable the model is, the longer it will last, and the better it will work.

14. Lug Pattern

Smaller lugs will allow better traction when climbing but are not as helpful for hiking. Lugs with a larger profile make hiking easier for the most inexperienced people.

15. Rubber

Sticky soles are one of the main pros to climbers and hikers that these products offer. Using sticky rubber for the soles lets you climb and hike safely without slipping.

16. Warranty and Budget

A warranty is always a good thing when spending your hard-earned money. Your budget is also important. The price of the best approach shoes ranges from $50.00 to $300.00.

Why Buy Approach Shoes

Designed to be a cross between hiking boots and climbing shoes to offer you the best of both worlds. Although many people believe there is no point in buying them, they are a great way to carry less on a climbing or hiking trip. This makes them ideal for situations that require both a lot of hiking as well as climbing.

Comfort is the main feature of approach shoes because they are meant to be used on long hiking or climbing trips. The protection that they offer your toes and heels makes them better for climbing over rocks or loose gravel. Overall, they are a great investment for avid hikers and climbers.

Care & Maintenance Tips

• Waterproof your shoes. If you happen to buy shoes with leather uppers, you should condition or waterproof them. If you don’t do this, they can easily stretch or even shrink by absorbing water when you use them in wet conditions.
• Clean them after using them. The sand that can accumulate on your shoes can damage the material after a while. The cleaner you keep your shoes, the longer you will be able to use them. Taking the insole out and shaking them once in a while can help keep your shoes clean inside as well.
• Only wear them for approaching. If you use them more than you need to, you will wear them out faster. Another disadvantage to using them a lot is that dirty soled are less likely to grip the rock properly.
• Get a bag for your shoes. Keeping them in a bag when you aren’t using them will keep them clean and protect them from sunlight.

A Word from Climbingreviewed

The variety of styles and materials that are available to hikers and climbers will make it easy to find a good fit. Each option on our list has its features that make them ideal for specific situations. Our favorites are the Five Ten Men’s Guide Tennie Approach Shoes, and the Vasque Women’s Grand Traverse. They are the best approach footwear out there for men and women today.

Always consider the points in this buyer’s guide before you settle on a brand or design. Make sure you are getting good value for your money without compromising on the longevity of the shoes. Finally, remember to budget well that won’t be too heavy on your pocket.

FAQs

1. What’re the differences between hiking boots and approach shoes?

Ans. The main difference between these shoes and hiking boots is the rubber sole that you find on approach shoes. This is specifically designed to help you grip rock as you make your way up to the beginning of the climbing spot.

2. What’s the best way to approach shoes to fit?

Ans. You need to be able to wiggle your toes, but not move forward in the shoe at the same time. The best socks to pair with these shoes are mid-weight socks that are not too thick. Remember, they need to be comfortable as well as practical.

3. Can you go hiking with approach shoes?

Ans. Although these shoes are not designed for lasting long if they are used in hiking situations, you can use them for hiking. Approach shoes are especially helpful if you plan on hiking in rockier areas.

4. How long will you be able to use approach shoes?

Ans. The general estimate puts the life of these shoes at more or less 6 months. This time is dependent on how often you use them and also on how well you maintain them. If you take care of your shoes, they can last much longer than 6 months.

5. Can you use hiking boots instead of approach shoes?

Ans. It depends on the approach that you will be hiking to get to the start of the climb. If there is a higher chance that you will need to climb over a few boulders and rocks, approach shoes are the better option. In cases with normal trails, hiking boots will suffice.

6. Are hiking shoes or hiking boots better?

Ans. The better option is hiking shoes because of their flexibility and soft feel. They are more comfortable and do not need to be broken in, making it less tedious to hike in them. Most shoes are ideal for dry weather, but some people believe they are good for wet conditions as well.

7. Can you wash your approach shoes with a washing machine?

Ans. You can wash them in the machine if you remove the laces and soles and use cold water. Your regular laundry detergent will work fine for these shoes and add a towel to prevent them from damaging the machine as they spin.