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APPROACH SHOES are built light and flexible for speed and agility. They're great for fast trail-hiking or scrambling with a daypack. DAY HIKERS and BACKPACKERS are the decathlon champs of mountain footwear, providing more support and protection for heavier loads and higher mileage.
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1) A RAND—a thick perimeter strip of rubber above the sole—helps protect the upper from abrasion and adds traction for toe jams.
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2) The INSOLE, on top of the midsole, provides an extra layer of armor for your feet. Some approach shoes do without them—a construction known as SLIP-LASTING. Boots with insoles are called BOARD-LASTED. Insoles can be fiber, nylon, polyurethane, or polypropylene, tuned to varying degrees of stiffness. Backpacking boots incorporate a SHANKS, a strip of steel or nylon under the arch area to stiffen it.
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3) The MIDSOLE, glued or stitched in just above the outsole, provides most of a boot's shock absorption. Running shoes and many approach shoes use expanded vinyl acetate (EVA), which is cushy but wears out quickly. Polyurethane is the firm and long-lasting choice for most day hikers and backpackers.
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4) An approach shoe's OUTSOLE should be lightly lugged and flexible through the forefoot. Day hikers and backpackers need deeper lugs and more stiffness. Dual-density soles combine grip where it's needed with durability in high-wear areas. Vibram is still the standard by which other soles are judged.
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5) SPACE AGE, SMACE AGE: Nothing beats all-leather uppers for durability and support. Full-grain leather includes the tough, water-repellent outer surface of the hide, so it's tougher (and heavier) than cheaper split-grain (suede). Nubuck feels like fine suede, but is actually full-grain leather with a micro-sanded finish. Full-grain and nubuck leather waterproof easily with aftermarket products such as Nikwax. Fabric-and-leather uppers enhance breathability and reduce weight, but are less durable and supportive. For combo uppers to be truly waterproof, they need an interior laminate of Gore-Tex or a similar product.
Since each manufacturer uses its own foot-shaped molds, called LASTS, boots from different companies fit differently. Try several brands and you'll find one or two that feel best. Approach shoes should fit snugly across your toes for control; day hikers and backpackers should have more room. All should cup your heel snugly to prevent blisters.
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6) An ideal LACING SYSTEM facilitates easy tensioning and eliminates pressure points. Lace locks at the ankle allow you to tension the upper and lower laces differently—tight on the bottom for control, loose on top for flexibility.
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