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Topic Date User

Approach Shoes 15-Apr-2015 At 2:55:39 PM Sabu

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On 15/04/2015 shortman wrote:
>I combine this outer layer with my Volleys. Works a treat. The trick is
>to have multiple layers and just peel them off as they wear through. You'll
>need about 40 layers per km if it helps, :)

I shit you not my dad used to hike like this in the snow when he was a student. I give him crap for it every time he comments about my affinity for buying gear.

On 15/04/2015 mattwho wrote:
>Looking for suggestions for an approach type shoe with a waterproof membrane.
>
>I’ve had a pair of Keen Tyron’s for some time which I’ve used for pretty
>much everything, approach, riding, hiking etc. They’ve been mostly great
>but are pretty much had it now.
>
>I’m looking for something that is:
>- Reasonably light, as in light enough not be a pest if clipped to your
>harness for a long walk off.
>- Some degree of waterproofness.
>- Not too warm. This was the downfall of the Tryon’s, might be part
>and parcel of a waterproof liner though?
>
>What have people bought in a similar style?

I've not owned an approach shoe with a waterproof layer and I'm not entirely sure its necessary. If you're in a wet environment it highly likely water will just come in through the top of your shoe unless you're wearing gaiters or something.

For lightweight approach shoes (especially if I need to carry them up a multipitch) I use my teva sandals. I find the reduced weight and bulk on my harness well worth the potential discomfort of an open toe sandal on a decent.

For everything else I used a pair of low cut salomon hiking shoes - nothing special and not waterproof but they lasted for years, stood up well to the abuse and only recently have the soles started dying. The newer models have a goretex layer so that may fit your requirements. I did however find them very heavy/bulky to carry up while climbing so I frequently had to employ the "seconders always carry the leader's shoes" rule. I would happily buy the same model again if I could.

Re trail running shoes, I'd be careful. As these shoes have pretty much died I've recently tried two types of trail shoes I own but I've found both lacking so this may raise questions about other trail shoe options. Basically they weren't rigid enough (very thin sole) to comfortably scramble so I didn't feel as secure on steeper approaches. Also the fabric on trail shoes tends to be very light and not well suited to being bashed around on scrambles or loose rock. Not taking them ever again.