La Sportiva

TX4 R Approach Shoe - Men's

Not just a TX4 with a new paint job

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Size Bought:

42.5

I happened to be shown these in a store when trying some scarpas. They didn’t have my size so I ordered here. I have owned TX4 and never liked them. Too soft to edge (they would just roll off) or protect the front of my feet from pokey rocks on long descents. The reviews never matched my experience. I have used TX guide leather for the past two seasons. They climb great, but a long day of mountaineering in them kills my toes. Too narrow and not enough height above my toes. The laces eventually make their presence known. These TX4R are a totally different shoe… kind of a hybrid. They have the wonderful toe room and shape of the TX4, edge and climb at 90% of the ability of the TX guide, and hike pretty good (certainly not a cushy as a trail runner but better than a boot). The sole is not just resoleable, it’s totally different. Stiffer for edging , a bit thicker and more protective, and a better tread pattern. They are my new low 5th class mountaineering with a long hike in and out shoes. I’m a 9.5 street shoe and the 42.5 is perfect. The 42 had my first and third toe grazing the end.