Gecko Guide

 

Product Description

"A durable technical approach shoe that can be easily carried when climbing multi-pitch routes or big walls. These shoes are tough and last through countless climbs, and yet they are light on the foot and won't weigh you down. The Vibram Vertical Approach Soles are ultra sticky for scrambling, and the micro-porous polyurethane mid-sole inserts have an immense amount of shock absorption, without sacrificing your sensitivity to the rock. The toe box brings the front half of your foot into a snug, technical position like a climbing shoe, but they are still comfortable for hiking long distances."

Scarpa quit producing these shoes in 2012, no doubt the list price of $189 had something to do with their sales. I would not have considered these shoes at full retail but I jumped on them when they were discounted half price. I took these shoes right out of the box and put them to a full test when I went hiking in the Salmon River country here in Idaho. In a few short miles I had encountered just about everything from creek crossings, wet granite, steep side hills and what I call "technical" dirt climbing and these shoes excelled in every way. They are softer than my Asolo approach shoes and have less of a tendency to roll like other low cut shoes. The sole is super sticky and after a few months of daily use are showing no signs of wear. Of all the approach shoes I've tried these are the best for moderate rock climbing but lack arch support for carrying any kind of load.

I've been hiking in these shoes daily for almost 6 months now and while they are holding up well, they are getting kind of mushy and unlike most well broke-in shoes they are now causing blisters on the outside of my little toes. I'll try switching up socks and adjusting the lacing but if they continue to cause me foot problems I'll keep knocking down my rating and turn them into lawn mowing shoes.

Reviews

Alpinist Review Sept 2011

Field Review by Jim Donini

Images