Verdict from 4 experts and +100 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- A majority of users say that the Scarpa Crux is indeed a satisfyingly comfortable approach shoe.
- Loads of buyers find the Vibram Vertical Approach outsole grippy enough, especially for scrambling.
- Based on a decent percentage of consumer reviews, this Scarpa approach shoe is remarkably durable.
- A bunch of shoppers declares that the Crux is a fine option for smearing.
- According to a tester, the footgear’s lacing system offers a lot of security while on the move.
- Its breathability impresses a few critics.
3 reasons not to buy
- Some adventurers state that the Scarpa Crux’s flexible midsole isn’t ideal for edging.
- Its tongue keeps sliding down to the side, according to a reviewer.
- Several purchasers find this approach shoe to be quite expensive.
Bottom line
Outdoorsy individuals who require comfort and traction for approach trips may discover satisfaction with the Crux. Its sturdiness and smearing performance also receives outstanding remarks from buyers and professional reviewers alike.
On the other hand, the shoe’s flexibility is seen as a detriment by those who have used it for edging. All in all, the Scarpa Crux still offers a set of advantages that users may find handy for trail adventures, scrambling, and easy climbs.
Good to know
- The Scarpa Crux is a low-top approach shoe designed to deliver comfort and performance both for scrambling and hiking. While its predecessor employed a Kevlar webbing for shape retention, this version sports a streamlined suede upper lined with stretch textile for durability.
- The footgear’s midsole has been updated from a single layer ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) to a molded Vertical Dual Density design for cushioning. Scarpa also replaced the earlier version’s Idiogrip outsole with a Vibram Vertical Approach component, which offers traction on most ground conditions and rock surfaces.
The Crux is a low-top approach shoe built by Scarpa for men and women. It comes with an extended lacing system, which reaches the user’s toes. It grants a secure and personalized lockdown to the wearer. Moreover, its tongue and collar are padded to promote a comfortable fit.
This approach-centric piece uses a Vibram Vertical Approach outsole. Its profile is filled with boomerang-shaped lugs to give traction on virtually all types of terrain. The component’s front section contains a climbing zone for added control when ascending. It is also made of a Megagrip rubber compound to make it resistant to abrasion, wear, and tear.
The Scarpa Crux features a Vertical Dual Density midsole. It uses two layers of lightweight EVA foam to render a cushioned ride while keeping ground impact to a minimum. It is paired with a Flex Lite insole to give wearers stability, arch support, and added comfort underfoot.
The Crux from Scarpa is equipped with an upper made of water-repellent suede leather. It is lined with a stretch textile material to create a comfortable in-shoe environment while maintaining breathability. The shoe’s forefoot section contains a rubber rand for durability and extra precision when climbing.
The Scarpa Crux comes with a Heel Tension feature at the rearfoot for lateral support when walking. Its lacing system uses a series of eyelets to help the wearer manage the shoe’s fit. A pull loop is positioned at the collar’s back to give users easy on and off.
The Crux and Gecko are both low-top approach shoes manufactured by Scarpa. Shown below are several features these two offerings share and certain qualities that set them apart.
Upper. Both the Scarpa Crux and Gecko are equipped with uppers made of suede leather to achieve a balance between lightness and sturdiness. Moreover, their uppers are reinforced with rubber toe caps for added durability.
Midsole. The Scarpa Gecko comes with a bi-density midsole made of lightweight EVA foam to give adventurers a cushioned ride. It has a low-density EVA in the rearfoot section, which promotes shock reduction. This component is paired with a removable insole to optimize arch support and underfoot comfort. The Crux also uses a bi-layer EVA midsole to give outdoor enthusiasts these trail benefits.
Outsole. Scarpa fitted the Gecko with a Vibram Reptilia HG outsole. It combines low-profile lugs and a climbing zone at the forefoot’s tip to render ground adherence on uneven trails and slabby surfaces. It is made of Vibram’s Idiogrip compound, which makes it resistant to harsh conditions. Moreover, the outsole contains self-cleaning lugs for optimal traction. Meanwhile, the Scarpa Crux uses a Vibram Vertical Approach outsole made of a Megagrip compound to keep users stable on tricky terrain.
Target market and pricing. These two Scarpa approach shoes are built for men and women. The Crux is significantly more affordable than the Gecko.
Fit. The Scarpa Gecko is built on the brand’s proprietary CA last, which gives the shoe its straight, yet broad shape. It has a to-the-toe lacing system, which enables wearers to get a secure and personalized lockdown from the footgear. The Scarpa Crux also uses the same lacing system to give users fit customization.
-Consumers who prefer shoes dedicated specifically to climbing may want to consider the La Sportiva Solution or Scarpa Instinct. These offerings deliver support and performance for challenging send projects.
-Outdoor enthusiasts who are searching for a trail-centric product that can withstand various trail challenges may look into a pair of light hikers. Among the options that may be explored is the Keen Targhee III Waterproof.