La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX
About a year ago I was shopping for a light approach and hiking shoe that should be as comfortable as a sneaker. After some research and try-ons I decided for the La Sportiva TX4 Mid GTX.
To get things started: I love this boot but the sole is not gripping enough. But let’s get started.
La Sportiva TX4 Mid
In good conditions even after one year of heavy use.
La Sportiva is marketing this shoe as an approach shoe. The Gore-Tex membrane keeps your feet dry and comfy. The boot fits very nicely with a snug fit in the heal and some room in the toe box. The lacing allows for a snug fit up to the toes (if required). There was no break-in period required, the shoe was great from day one. I especially like to boot in the warmer months as they seem to breathe well. Even after some 20km+ the foot is well protected and there are no hot zones.
Vibram sole…
… unfortunately not ideal for wet conditions (especially in he forefoot) with the rather flat profile.
The Vibram sole is quite sticky to (dry) rock. Unfortunately once conditions change to wet or a bit snowy it is a completely different picture. The sole simply does not provide enough traction and the slugs are not deep enough. Hiking in these shoes in wet conditions becomes quite challanging and feels a bit like walking on ice. Also gravel is not its strong ground - you loose traction fast and the heel does not bite.
The boots are holding up very well. After about a full year of heavy use they do not show any signs of heavy wear and tear. The sole has not lost too much rubber and the usual areas are still well operating.
After all, I’ve kept the boots in my set of boots but the lack of grip of the sole is becoming more and more an issue. As we all know, weather can change fast and if you’re on the hike and suddenly need to cross some exposed fields of gravel you do not feel secure enough in these boots. It’s a shame - other than the sole they are simply some of the best boots I have - specifically from a comfort level perspective. Hopefully La Sportiva will change the sole in the future to something with more traction in wet conditions.
Final Conclusion
Would I recommend these boots to a friend? Yes, I would… with a disclaimer or remark on their usage in wet conditions.