Approach shoes vs hiking shoes

What makes an approach shoe different

Most approach shoes share a few features. The rubber is softer and stickier than on a normal hiking sole. Under the toes there is often a flat climbing zone without lugs, so you can stand on small edges. A rubber rand wraps the front of the shoe to protect it from rock. The lacing runs right down towards the toe, so you can snug the fit for a scramble and loosen it for the walk out.

The price of all this is comfort on long paths. Approach shoes tend to have less cushioning, shallower lugs that clog in mud and soft rubber that wears faster on tarmac and gravel.

• Sticky rubber outsole for friction on rock.
• Climbing zone under the toes for edging.
• Protective rubber rand around the toe.
• Lacing that runs close to the toe for a precise fit.

What a hiking shoe does better

A hiking or walking shoe has deeper, more widely spaced lugs that bite into mud and wet grass, a softer midsole that cushions long hard tracks and a roomier fit for all-day comfort. Many have a waterproof membrane. On a typical UK walk, which is mostly path, field and a little rough ground, that makes a hiking shoe the more comfortable choice.

Hiking shoes are less precise on rock. On steep slabs, polished holds and narrow ledges, their rounded toe and firmer rubber give less feel than an approach shoe. For most walkers that only matters on scrambles.

Compare walking shoes for hill paths →

One of each compared

The table compares the La Sportiva TX4 Evo GTX approach shoe with the Scarpa Cyrus 2 GTX walking shoe, using the amazon.co.uk listings. Both have Gore-Tex. The TX4 Evo is listed for rock, gravel and wet slabs; the Cyrus 2 has Scarpa's Presa hiking sole and a nubuck upper.

Can you hike in approach shoes?

Yes. Many people use approach shoes as their summer hill shoe, especially on rocky mountains such as those in Snowdonia, the Lake District and the Cuillin approaches. They are tough, protective and grip well on dry rock. Expect firmer cushioning than a hiking shoe and faster wear on long tarmac or gravel sections.

On muddy lowland paths and wet grass, approach shoes are less good. Shallow lugs fill with mud, and soft rubber can feel slippery on wet grass. If most of your walking looks like that, choose a hiking shoe and keep approach shoes for the rocky days.

Approach shoes versus trail runners is a similar trade. Trail runners are lighter and more cushioned with aggressive lugs for mud, but they are less protective and less precise on rock.

Note:Scrambling is serious terrain. Grip from a shoe does not replace experience, good weather and a route within your ability. Consider a course with a qualified instructor before tackling graded scrambles.

Which to choose

Choose an approach shoe if you scramble, walk to climbs, enjoy rocky ridges in summer or want one tough shoe for dry mountain days. Our guide to the best approach shoes for scrambling compares five models.

Choose a hiking shoe if most of your walking is on paths and fields, you value cushioning over precision or you walk long distances. If you are unsure, read what are approach shoes for a fuller explanation.

Frequently asked questions

Are approach shoes good for hiking? On rocky paths and dry ground, yes. On mud, wet grass and long flat miles, a hiking shoe is usually more comfortable.

Do approach shoes run small? Many are made by Italian brands and some walkers size up by half a size. Check the maker's chart and try them with your walking socks.

Are approach shoes waterproof? Some have a Gore-Tex lining, such as the TX4 Evo GTX. Many do not, because they dry faster without one.

Can I use approach shoes for climbing? For easy climbs and scrambles they work well, but they are not a replacement for climbing shoes on harder routes.