I’ve just learned the horrifying news that La Sportiva has inexplicably chosen to discontinue their single most beloved shoe. I’ve owned like 5 pairs of these over the years and I’m devastated. Looking at all the La Sportiva alternatives, the construction and durability seem worse and their reviews are generally bad.
What other shoes are out there that feature:
Good drainage
Quick drying
Grippy rubber
Low profile (below ankle)
Superior abrasion resistance
A reasonable lacing system (the TX3’s one downfall)
Preferably a roomy toe box
All suggestions are appreciated. My own TX3s are on their last legs and I am dreading the hunt for a replacment.
Not quick drying or good drainage, but the last couple of shoes I’ve bought for desert canyons/hiking are the Salewa Wildfire. They fit my wide feet well, and have good grip for climbing/scrambling. The last pair I wore the sole out completely, but the uppers were still holding up very well. They lasted better than most of the shoes I’ve tried. My second pair seem to be holding up very well also.
For longer mile outings with less expected climbing, I have used La Sportiva Wildcats for years. They fit my feet well, and though are not an approach shoe, have enough grip I can climb decently if needed. Hope those never get discontinued. I bet I’ve had over a dozen pairs over the years! I have done many 20+ mile days in Wildcats and don’t think I’ve ever had a blister or other foot issue with them.