Super sticky approach shoe designed for high performance protection.
We tweaked the designs of proven technology from years past to produce the Boulder X. Additional padding underfoot for long approaches and uber sticky rubber add deluxe comfort and performance. The Vibram® Idro-Grip compound stays sticky on every type of rock even when wet. The all leather uppers and sticky rubber toe rands offer durable protection. Ideal protection and performance built for the rigors and abuse of the mountains.
For long approaches and light climbing and scrambling, the women's La Sportiva Boulder X approach shoes get the job done.
Imported.
| Activity: | Climbing |
|---|---|
| Average footwear weight (pair): | 1 lb. 12 oz. |
| Can be resoled: | Yes |
| Construction: | Impact Brake System |
| Footwear closure: | Lace-up |
| Lacing: | standard |
| Last: | Board-lasted |
| Lining: | Nylon |
| Midsole: | 2mm polypropylene, 2mm LaSpEVA |
| Outsole: | Vibram Idro-Grip rubber |
| Recommended Use: | approach, rock hopping, scrambling |
| Shape of last: | Flat |
| Sole: | Vibram Idro-Grip V-Smear |
| Upper: | Leather/Vibram rubber rands |
| Upper Material: | leather |
| Warranty: | 1 year |
| Weight: | [pair] 1 lb 12.8 oz |
| La Sportiva Boulder X | $57.75 - $105.00 |
The Short:
I am tempted to buy a second pair right now so that I have some when my current pair wears out- I don't want to risk NOT having these in my life.
The Long:
I was wary about buying ANOTHER pair of day hiker/approach shoes. However after loving my La Sportiva climbing shoes and reading the reviews of these shoes, I decided to go for it. Boy, I have not regretted my decision once. These shoes are STURDY, keep my over-pronating feet in check; they are LIGHTWEIGHT, heading up and down a 9-mile hike with mixed terrain of snow, mud, and dry dirt was no problem. Bouldering at the top was a dream- the toe and sole have the stickiest rubber that allowed me to play without overthinking my feet.
Side note: on a recent hike there were people struggling up and down slick terrain, while I had footing that I could write home about. Sticky, nimble business. Loved it.
Bottom Line: If you need some good approach shoes that can handle a lighter hike but also a day-long push with bouldering, don't hesitate to get these in your life!
First and foremost, I have to emphasize just how difficult it is for me to find adequate footwear of any kind due to the extreme narrowness of my feet and heels. After trying nearly every other brand on the market, I looked for some online advice about outdoor shoes for women with very narrow feet and La Sportiva came up more than once. I am planning to hike Half Dome in Yosemite this August and want an approach shoe for the ascent and descent of Sub Dome and Half Dome. I've tested these on the highest, craggiest, boulder-strewn peaks of the southern Appalachians and I think they fit the bill - not to mention my ridiculously narrow feet. They are grippy, relatively light, and comfortable. I am currently trying to find a hiking boot in this brand as the fit has given me a glimmer of hope. Finally.
My climbing partner threatened to force-ably remove and burn my last approach shoes as I was loath to give them up but they were falling apart. First day in these I fell in love all over again. Excellent support, grippy rubber and not even a warning of a blister. I hiked up a wet slippery canyon. Was able to hop rocks, do a bit of bouldering and scramble up to a col with complete confidence as well as comfortably cruise along the approach trail.
I bought these for my girlfriend, who has a narrow foot, and she loves them. She has taken them out hiking and backpacking and has had good experiences with both. She has a narrow low volume foot so the extra adjustment and the lacing to the toe helps her to get the perfect fit. The sole is rigid enough to support a mid-weight pack and they stick to the rocks when scrambling.
I tried these on and they are comfortable but weird. I don't like how the heal has the really wide sole. I guess it is there so you don't roll your ankle and I probably could get used to it, but I think I'll try something else. The footbed does have a soft foam under the insole which is pretty cool! :)
I use this for day hikes all the time. It was a bit tight at first but loosened up after I used them the first time. My feet don't get too hot and I think they look cute too. Not too bulky, which is nice but give killer support. I'd buy them again.
Runs true to size for the most part..I wear 5.5-6.0 and in these 5.5 is right on. Super sticky soles, lightweight, low profile, nice smaller lightweight yet super sturdy shoe. Perfect approach shoe as they can be hiked in and bouldered in....used for scrambles as well as class IV..I love them.
The best attribute of these shoes is that they are incredibly sticky. They are plenty comfy for long approaches and could probably work for low grade climbs in a pinch. I do find it a little tough to lace them just right, but when I do, they fit perfectly.
These shoes are as great as they look; however, they might run a bit small. I had to order a half size larger than my regular shoe size.
Hands down the best overall shoe ive owned! I've got chronic plantar fasciitis and been pain free in this shoe (with some orthotics in them).