Ask the Experts > All Questions

Heya, for some additional experience to draw from: I rode two weeks along the Colorado Trail with a pair of Xero hiking shoes. These are designed as a "barefoot" shoe and I was hesitant to utilize them but I knew I'd be doing some hefty hike-a-bike. I have wide feet and traditional flat shoes aren't a fit for me so I didn't really have much by way of choices. I also knew I didn't want to clip in. I ended up using a bike-specific sole insert and an angled shim in the Xero shoes and brought a pair of huaraches for around camp which were light-weight and easily packable. My pedals were a pair of RaceFace Chesters, and I was surprised to discover I had no issues. Ultimately you will want a shoe that allows your foot to expand/swell when warm, gives you the traction you need for walking, and manages moisture well. Obviously 6 weeks is a vastly different experience with different needs, but I wanted to share what worked for me. Please be sure you test what you buy before you go, as a bad fit will ruin a trip faster than most other things. And Merino Wool Socks, IMO, are kings. Worst case? Get a regular flat MTB shoe and carry something like YakTracks for when you feel you really need that bite to get up an incline. This is all about the discovery and exploration and I hope you have an awesome adventure.

I've been mountain biking & bikepacking on flat pedals in Black Diamond Session 2.0 approach shoes for the last few years. Super grippy, lightweight, comfortable on & off the bike. They dry out in minutes even after walking through creeks. Maybe not as stiff as desired, but I compensated for that with a longer platform pedal. Unfortunately BD is either updating the session currently or discontinued as it's not on their website. Looks like you can still find them on last hunt and similar sites though

Thanks for your reply Logan! I had read your review about the Five Ten Guide Tennie but as you already know, they are discontinued. I have a pair of Trailcross but I find that the sole doesn't have enough grip for hiking in the mountains. That's why I'm thinking about an approach shoes with a more studded sole and GTX membrane.

I personally don't know of a hiking-specific shoe that fits this description, but the older generation Five Ten Guide Tennie was a great option and was a true approach shoe. A lot of folks like the Trailcross: https://www.adidas.com/us/five-ten-trailcross-lt-mountain-bike-shoes/ID5012.html