La Sportiva TX2 Evo Approach Shoe - Women's Carbon/Hibiscus, 39.5

"What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying:""The TX2 Evo is what I reach for when the approach is just as important as the climb. It's light enough that you forget you're wearing shoes on the trail, and the Vibram Idogrip outsole smears confidently on wet rock. The fit runs narrow and close, so size up half a size and pair with thin socks. The C2 ComboCord heel loop is a small detail that makes a real difference when you're stuffing these into your pack before you tie in.""The trailhead is two miles from the base of the route, and the last thing you want is heavy boots slowing you down before the real work begins. The La Sportiva TX2 Evo Approach Shoe is built for exactly that window between car and climb, light and packable enough to move fast on the approach, grippy enough to stay confident when the trail turns to rock. The breathable synthetic upper drains quickly and dries faster, so a creek crossing doesn't ruin the rest of the day. The MEMlex EVA midsole with TPU shank keeps things supportive without adding bulk, and PU reinforcements at the toe and heel hold up to the scuffing that approach terrain dishes out. When it's time to tie in, the C2 ComboCord heel loop cinches the shoe down for compact stowing in your pack."

Price: $118.30 from Backcountry