Who should buy the La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX

The Boulder X Mid GTX has enough pros to be considered a great approach companion. It is a solid option if you:

  • Prefer an approach shoe that is waterproof and ankle-supportive
  • Prefer an approach shoe that provides wearers with a combination of agility and protection over rocky terrain
  • Prefer an approach shoe that provides walking comfort on level surfaces

La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX logo

Excellent surface grip

The Boulder X Mid GTX’s Vibram outsole is the shoe’s source of surface grip. On it, users can move across a variety of surfaces with enough tenacity thanks to its circular studs and ridge-like lugs. It also has a climbing zone—its semi-smooth front tip—that grants hikers added stickiness on edges.

La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX outsole

Offers improved latching power

It comes with IBS or Impact Brake System, which provides improved latching power, especially during downhill traversals. This imbuement also reduces negative force due to impact by approximately 20%.

La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX outsole 1.0

Provides ample stability and underfoot cushioning

A graded microporous midsole is what provides ample stability and cushioning underfoot in the La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX. The extra-thick construction of its heel translates to adequate shock absorption, delivering safe landings as a result. It is paired with a 2-mm insert made of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) that grants increased shock mitigation and additional comfort.

La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX midsole

Easy to wear

Sporting the Boulder X Mid GTX means being seen in its mid-cut suede leather upper. Slipping in and out of its plush confines is made more convenient by a heavy-duty pull tab stitched to its heel.

La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX upper

Breathable and watertight

As its name suggests, this boot-type approach hiker comes with a Gore-Tex liner called Extended Comfort, making it sufficiently breathable and watertight at the same time. Enough randing is crafted around its lower perimeter, giving terrain protection and extra grip on low-grade climbs.

La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX upper 1.0

Secure fit

Most of the boot’s eyelets are made up of lace tunnels made of leather. They work hand in hand with a stout synthetic lace, keeping the foot in place.

La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX secure fit

Facts / Specs

Weight: Men 17.6oz
Base model: La Sportiva Boulder X
Features: Heel brake
Technology: Gore-Tex
Material: Leather
Waterproofing: Waterproof
Top: Mid

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Author
Teddy Dondanville
Teddy Dondanville

Teddy is a professionally trained Apprentice Rock Guide with the American Mountain Guides Association and a Wilderness First Responder with the National Outdoor Leadership School. Besides guiding outdoor rock climbing, Teddy also has years of experience in route setting and coaching climbing indoors. Through his guiding, route setting, and coaching, Teddy has experimented with climbing shoes for over a decade.