La Sportiva Boulder X Mid GTX review
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all approach shoes.
This shoe has a 8% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is to avoid that shoes with few reviews unjustly receives high scores.
Learn moreVerdict from 3 experts & 100+ users
Pros
- Remarkable comfort
- Lightweight
- Excellent surface traction
- Offers a ton of stability
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Breathable
Cons
- Lack of stiffer midsole
- Subpar edging capability
- Thin rubber rand



64% say it's true to size.
Out of stock in all 30 shops
La Sportiva approach shoesRankings
- Top 21% in approach shoes
- Top 23% in Gore-Tex approach shoes
Comparison to similar approach shoes
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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
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. La Sportiva designers gave it a climbing zone—its semi-smooth front tip—to grant hikers added stickiness on edges.
Offers improved latching power
It comes engineered with IBS or Impact Brake System, which promises improved latching power, especially during downhill traversals. This imbuement also reduces negative force due to impact by approximately 20%.
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) for increased shock mitigation and additional comfort.
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.
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 for terrain protection and extra grip on low-grade climbs.
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 to keep the foot in place.