Scarpa Golden Gate ATR review

Who should buy Scarpa Golden Gate ATR

Get it if you like a firm ride and are looking for a shoe that can be at ease on mixed terrain, offers great protection on every run, and can be perfect for your daily training at a slow pace, as well as for a full day out in the mountains.

Who should not buy it

Look elsewhere if you:

• like softer cushioning. Try the Hoka Challenger ATR 6 instead 
• prefer a shoe that doesn’t need breaking in. Check out the La Sportiva Akasha 2.

Golden Gate is perfect for hot days

According to those who tested it, this shoe is among the best when it comes to breathability. The upper is made of a light, yet strong mesh, that does not absorb moisture and is so thin that you can even see your feet through it.

Superlative traction

On this shoe, the Presa outsole takes the place of the Vibram seen in other Scarpa’s shoes, and it was the right choice: it proves to be excellent on pavement, rocks, grass, and even on wet and snow. Reviewers have no doubt about this:

• “tenacious grip on all surfaces”
• “an unmistakable sense of secure rear grip and stability on landings”
• the grip “has been rock solid.”

Firm, yet an enjoyable ride

The ride is described as not being bouncy, but firm and propulsive, thanks to a rocker that propels the runner forward. This, according to the reviewers, makes the run feel light and somewhat faster. 

A runner added that the rocker “allows this rigid shoe to flow along on the flats and uphills” better than other similar shoes.

Scarpa Golden Gate ATR is a great all-rounder 

This is a versatile shoe that can be taken almost everywhere and is not designed with speed in mind but for everyday, slow miles. As an expert said, “it’s a fantastic road-to-trail shoe,” and as another one noticed, “all in all, it’s a very awesome shoe.”

Fits like a glove

Overall, reviewers described the comfort of this shoe as being excellent. The sock-line structure is very well-made and as a runner said, it “hugs the foot seamlessly,” while the heel counter is well padded, “lovely and soft”. 

A tester pointed out that there’s a “really good fit right out of the box,” and an experienced runner added that “the lace up, its security, and comfort is outstanding.” 

Protection hits the sweet spot

The deep cushioning, firmness, and high stack of the shoe guarantee top-notch protection from the ground. No issues were reported with rocks or roots.

A stable Scarpa shoe

An experienced runner noticed that stability is well present here: “this is a very, very stable shoe.” According to him, this comes not only from the midsole but also from the well-designed outsole.

Durability at its best

Scarpa’s intent was to make the Golden Gate ATR last. And a tester can confirm this: “I can confidently say that this is what they have done” because, amazingly, even after 500 miles the outsole on his shoes still looked in good condition.

Give the Golden Gate a little time

As described by testers, the midsole remains on the firm side even after many miles, but it does soften a little bit. The same goes for the rigidity of the shoe, which decreases with use and makes the Golden Gate ATR a touch more flexible.