Approach shoes
Approach shoes are part of the hiking footwear family. They are typically low-cut and are characterised by their relatively stiff construction and a lacing system that extends almost to the toes, similar to climbing shoes. Originally designed to help climbers reach the base of crags that are sometimes difficult to access with full gear, they have, for several years now, gained popularity among hikers who have adopted them as their preferred walking shoes for rough terrain, offering good foot support and solid grip.
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Recommended price
£162.71
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£131.91
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£171.51
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£145.11
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£149.51
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£96.71
The Millet Cimai Dark Denim is a versatile hiking shoe offering optimal grip, precise fit, and comfort with its Vibram® sole, approach lacing, and EVA midsole.
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£193.51
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£173.27
The Scarpa Mescalito Gtx Shark Azur men’s approach shoe is a technical model designed with a Gore-Tex waterproof membrane and a Vibram sole to provide grip and protection from the elements.
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£175.91
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£157.43
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£211.11
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£167.11
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£158.31
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£126.63
Salewa Wildfire Nxt M Quicksand Dark Olive approach shoes combine lightness, robustness and grip thanks to their Matryx® design and Vibram® sole, ideal for varied terrain.
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£193.51
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£173.27
Designed by Scarpa, the Mescalito Gtx Women's Midgray Aqua women’s approach shoe protects your feet from the elements, offers good support as well as good grip on all types of terrain.
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£130.15
The Scarpa Rapid LT Caramel is a lightweight, comfortable approach boot with excellent grip thanks to its Vibram® Megagrip outsole.
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The La Sportiva TX Evo Carbon Papaya is a durable, technically advanced approach shoe, featuring a suede leather upper, Ortholite Hybrid Approach insole, EVA midsole, and Vibram MegaGrip outsole for superior protection, comfort, and traction on mountain terrains.
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£175.91
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£123.11
Salewa's Wildfire Nxt Gore-Tex M Quicksand Dark Denim is a rugged, lightweight, waterproof approach shoe, perfect for varied terrain thanks to its Vibram sole.
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£167.20
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£92.40
The Millet Cimaï Gore-Tex M Maracuja are robust, comfortable approach boots, ideal for technical terrain thanks to their Vibram® sole and GORE-TEX membrane.
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£171.51
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£145.11
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£149.51
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£127.51
The La Sportiva Tx4 Evo St Savana Onyx are lightweight, durable approach shoes, ideal for technical hikes and rocky approaches.
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£175.91
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£136.31
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£184.71
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£140.71
The Millet Cimai Pro Gore-Tex Deep Bottle is a high-performance, waterproof approach shoe, offering superior comfort and grip for climbing and hiking adventures.
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£158.31
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£184.71
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£156.55
The Millet Cimai Pro Gore-Tex Saphir is a high-performance, waterproof approach shoe, offering exceptional comfort, stability, and grip for climbing and hiking adventures.
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£175.91
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£140.71
Thanks to their Gore-Tex® membrane and Vibram® soles, the Wildfire Nxt Gore-Tex W Quicksand Etruscan Red women's approach boots from Salewa combine waterproofing and grip.
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£153.91
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£136.31
The women's Rapid Xt Wmn Conifer Sunny Lime approach shoes from Scarpa offer protection, comfort and grip on all terrains.
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£184.71
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£157.43
The La Sportiva TX4 Evo GTX Carbon Cherry Tomato is a durable, waterproof approach shoe with Gore-Tex lining, Ortholite Hybrid Approach insole, and Vibram MegaGrip outsole for optimal comfort, breathability, and grip on all terrains.
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What Is an Approach Walk?
Reaching some climbing spots is well earned. It can sometimes involve scrambling up steep slopes, pushing through dense vegetation, crossing chaotic scree fields, or even climbing a short route before reaching the bottom of the crag. An approach walk is therefore more than just a hike. And because it can be technical, wearing suitable footwear is essential.
What is the Difference Between Hiking Boots and Approach Shoes?
If the places you usually climb are easy to access, hiking boots or trail running shoes may do just fine. But if you venture to the base of remote crags known for their difficult access, we recommend choosing approach shoes or hiking boots with a certain level of stiffness. Your feet will be better supported and benefit from greater protection at the front and sides, thanks to rubber rands. You’ll also enjoy improved grip on loose terrain and enhanced traction on smooth slabs, whether dry or wet. One additional advantage approach shoes have over hiking boots is the inclusion of a climbing zone at the front of the outsole, making it easier to climb simple rock sections.
The Advantages of Dedicated Approach Footwear
Approach shoes combine many of the strengths found in both trail running and hiking shoes. They also borrow some features from climbing shoes.
- Like most trail running shoes, approach shoes have lugged outsoles that offer excellent grip for safely navigating tricky terrain. They also provide effective heel cushioning.
- Like hiking boots, approach shoes are highly durable. They feature toe caps and protective rands around the foot. For stability on rough terrain, they typically have a stiff sole—something not all hiking boots offer. This is why many walkers prefer them over traditional hiking footwear.
- Like certain climbing shoes, approach shoes have a lacing system that extends all the way to the toes. This provides secure forefoot support and a precise fit.
Which Approach Shoes for Via Ferrata or Climbing?
Approach shoes will never replace climbing shoes. They’re not designed for actual rock climbing, but rather to get you to bouldering spots or the bottom of routes while carrying all your gear. However, they are suitable for via ferrata. Don’t hesitate to contact us to find the most suitable model for this type of activity.
The Best Approach Shoes for Climbing: Comfort and Grip Guaranteed
Climbers rely on their climbing shoes for secure footholds on rock. It’s much the same with approach shoes—they let you reach a remote route with confidence, knowing your footing won’t slip on a tricky path. Choosing the right pair is important: it’s not just about walking comfortably, but also about moving with confidence across unstable terrain. Quality approach shoes are defined by their ability to provide all-day comfort and reliable grip on every surface—especially when you're carrying all your gear (ropes, harness, helmet, belay devices, cams, quickdraws, accessory cord, lanyards, carabiners, shoes, chalk, crash pad...).
Some brands have designed models specifically for this in-between terrain—somewhere between hiking and climbing. In this category, you’ll find the TX4 Evo by La Sportiva, known for their close-fitting design and Vibram® MegaGrip soles with climbing zones. There's also the Mescalito by Scarpa, which are highly rated for their reinforced uppers and excellent performance in scree. The Wildfire by Salewa stand out for their flexibility and versatility, ideal for long approach walks across varied terrain. You can also check out Kayland and the Vitrik range.
These shoes suit both experienced climbers and newcomers looking to explore remote, lesser-visited spots. They offer excellent precision when needed, securing every step. Whether you're heading to the Calanques, the Verdon Gorge, or the Aiguilles Rouges, or tackling classic UK crags like Stanage Edge in the Peak District, Tremadog in North Wales, or the rugged approaches of Scotland’s Isle of Skye, these approach shoes will get you there—and sometimes even a little further.
High-Cut Models
There are very few high-cut approach shoes. As they’re generally worn for shorter durations than hiking boots, manufacturers tend to favour low-cut designs for their lighter weight and smaller footprint. If you top out after climbing multiple pitches, you’ll appreciate carrying or hauling a lighter rucksack up the wall.
That said, high-ankle models are still valued by mountaineers who need solid support for feet and ankles and wear them on their approach walks before switching to crampon-compatible mountaineering boots.
Low-Cut Models
This is by far the most common category of approach shoes. These low-cut designs are popular with climbers who prefer to move quickly. Lighter than high-cut boots, they’re also worn by hikers and trekkers used to long journeys with heavy packs. Many prefer them over boots for travelling off the beaten path in remote areas over several days. Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference—beyond the technical features, it also comes down to taste.
Mid-Cut Boots
A great middle ground between low-cut shoes and high-ankle boots, mid-cut models are relatively rare. They offer a very attractive balance of weight, comfort, and performance.
Why Choose Gore-Tex Approach Shoes?
Climbing is best done in dry, sunny conditions. Still, the path to your route may cross streams or dew-covered meadows. If you're heading out on a scouting mission in uncertain weather, it’s best to wear waterproof approach shoes.
Today, Gore-Tex-type membranes are highly popular in the outdoor world. Many technical garments and shoes come equipped with them, regardless of the brand. That includes many approach shoes, such as the Super Trident GTX by Millet or the Alp Trainer 2 GTX by Salewa.
La Sportiva, Scarpa, Salewa, Black Diamond… the Best Men’s and Women’s Approach Shoes Are at Glisshop
At Glisshop, we’re proud to offer a selection of approach shoes from the most respected outdoor brands (La Sportiva, Millet, Asolo, Black Diamond, Scarpa, Aku, Dolomite, Salewa…). Don’t wait—explore our extensive range now and start the season with high-quality gear tailored to your needs.