La Sportiva makes some of the best mountain boots and shoes around. The more product I try from this manufacturer the more impressed I become. The Boulder X fits perfectly into La Sportiva\u2019s line up that includes hikers of all types, mountaineering boots, trail runners and much, much more. <\/p>\n
Although not necessarily a new category, approach shoes are a little less understood than your classic hiking boot. According to Climbing Magazine, approach shoes \u201cmust strike a fine balance between hiking and climbing, enabling you to churn out five trail miles with a moderate load and get you up that 5.6 ridgeline with nary a slip.\u201d Nice description. <\/p>\n
I tend to like approach shoes for day hikes in the Sierras for two reasons. First, they can handle all sorts of terrain, everything from your standard trail to traversing boulder fields. And second, their fit is often more snug and customizable than a more traditional hiking shoe or boot. <\/p>\n
With that in mind, the Boulder X delivers everything you\u2019d expect from a top notch approach shoe \u2013 sticky rubber sole with aggressive lugging, lacing system that ensures a no-slip fit, and a rubber rand for extra grip and protection. <\/p>\n
La Sportiva constructs the Boulder X from top-grade suede leather. The sandy gray and burnt orange accents look perfectly suited to a day of scrambling. Below the belt line, the Boulder X is wrapped with a thick protective rubber rand. These two elements contribute to the Boulder X’s weight of 14 ounces per shoe which is a touch lighter than a Scarpa Zen<\/a> but heavier than a Guide Tennie from FiveTen (see FiveTen Dome review<\/a>) \u2013 both comparable shoes.<\/p>\n Specs<\/strong> After testing a number of shoes from La Sportiva over the past year, I\u2019ve come to expect innovative lacing systems from the company. The one on the Boulder X just might be the most advanced I\u2019ve seen on a approach shoe (more about this in the Fit section) and borrows from the company\u2019s climbing shoe line. The laces are heavy-duty nylon paracord.
\nUpper: Suede with rubber rand
\nSole: Vibram
\nWeight: 28 oz per pair\n<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
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