La Sportiva Spire GTX

Review Score
86%
๐Ÿ… Highly Rated
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La Sportiva Spire GTX: Review

โ€œA lightweight hiking shoe with advanced waterproofing and traction.โ€

Overview


La Sportiva Spire GTX is a hiking shoe designed to offer a blend of stability and agility. This shoe is known for its lightweight construction and advanced waterproofing technology.

Key Features:

  • Gore-Tex Surround Technology: Provides breathable waterproof protection.
  • Vibram XS Trek Outsole: Ensures excellent traction on various terrains.
  • Compression-Molded EVA Midsole: Offers cushioning and support for long hikes.

The La Sportiva Spire GTX is an ideal choice for hikers who prioritize waterproofing and traction for challenging terrains. Its lightweight design offers comfort, making it suitable for both day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 86%. This puts it in the highest rated 20% of comparable hiking shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's just above the median price of hiking shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the La Sportiva Spire GTX


The La Sportiva Spire GTX is praised for its stability and comfort, making it a top choice for hikers tackling various terrains. Its Gore-Tex Surround technology provides excellent waterproofing while maintaining breathability, a feature that stands out in wet conditions. The Vibram XS Trek outsole offers reliable traction, ensuring safety on slippery surfaces. Despite its lightweight design, the shoe provides ample support, thanks to the compression-molded EVA midsole. However, the shoe's durability is questioned due to its lightweight synthetic materials, and it comes with a higher price tag. Sizing may run large, so potential buyers should consider sizing down. Overall, the Spire GTX is a high-performance shoe that justifies its cost with its features and versatility. For those seeking a reliable hiking shoe with excellent waterproofing and traction, the Spire GTX is a worthy investment.

Comparable Shoes


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The Merrell Moab 3 WP is a good alternative for those on a budget, offering solid performance at a more affordable price. While it may not match the Spire GTX in terms of advanced technology and waterproofing, it provides reliable comfort and traction for most hiking needs. The Moab 3 WP is a practical choice for hikers who want a dependable shoe without breaking the bank.

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The The North Face VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT is a lightweight option for those who prioritize speed and agility. While it may lack some of the support and stability of the Spire GTX, it offers a more minimal design for fast-paced hikes. This shoe is ideal for hikers who want to shed extra weight and move quickly on the trail.

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The Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex combines performance and a lighter-weight design, similar to a running shoe. It offers durability and waterproofing, making it a versatile choice for various hiking conditions. While it may not provide the same level of support as the Spire GTX, it is a great option for those who want a balance of performance and comfort.

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The Hoka Anacapa Low GTX offers more underfoot cushion compared to the Spire GTX, making it a comfortable choice for long hikes. It is based on a running shoe design and provides a similar level of performance at a lower price. This shoe is suitable for hikers who prioritize cushioning and comfort over advanced features.

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The Salewa Mountain Trainer Lite GTX is a fantastic choice for those seeking a more technical shoe. It offers stiffer support and can handle more off-trail travel compared to the Spire GTX. This shoe is ideal for hikers who need a robust and durable option for challenging terrains.

6 La Sportiva Spire GTX Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Excellent traction on various terrains.
Breathable waterproof protection with Gore-Tex Surround.
Comfortable right out of the box for wide and narrow feet.

3 Cons

Expensive compared to other hiking shoes.
Sizing runs large, may require sizing down.
Not the most durable due to lightweight materials.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the La Sportiva Spire GTX is crafted from abrasion-resistant mesh, providing both durability and flexibility. This material is designed to offer breathable waterproof protection, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The mesh construction allows moisture to escape, enhancing comfort during long hikes. Additionally, the shoe features a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) toe cap for added protection against rocks and debris, ensuring the upper remains intact even on rugged trails.

Midsole

The midsole of the Spire GTX is made from compression-molded EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), a material known for its cushioning and support. This design helps absorb shock during hikes, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort. The midsole works in conjunction with a 5mm Ortholite insert, providing additional support and cushioning. This combination ensures that the shoe remains comfortable even on long treks, making it a great choice for those who prioritize cushioning in their hiking footwear.

Outsole

The outsole of the Spire GTX features the Vibram XS Trek compound, known for its excellent grip and durability. This outsole is designed to provide traction on various terrains, from loose sand to polished stone. The Stability Control System enhances security on steep ground, while the deep lug pattern ensures grip and traction. This makes the Spire GTX a reliable choice for hikers who encounter diverse trail conditions.

Size/fit

The La Sportiva Spire GTX is designed to accommodate both wide and narrow feet, offering comfort straight out of the box. However, the shoe tends to run large, so sizing down is recommended for those between sizes. The spacious toe box allows toes to spread naturally, enhancing comfort. The lacing system provides a secure fit, though some users may need to adjust it frequently for optimal comfort.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Spire GTX, with its design inspired by trail running shoes. The shoe offers cushioning and support, thanks to the compression-molded EVA midsole and Ortholite insert. The breathable mesh upper enhances comfort by allowing moisture to escape, while the gusseted tongue provides protection and ease of wear. This combination ensures that the Spire GTX remains comfortable even during long hikes.

Cushioning

The Spire GTX offers excellent cushioning, thanks to its compression-molded EVA midsole and 5mm Ortholite insert. This combination provides shock absorption and support, reducing fatigue during long hikes. The cushioning is designed to protect the feet from sharp rocks and uneven terrain, ensuring a comfortable hiking experience. This makes the Spire GTX a great choice for those who prioritize cushioning in their hiking footwear.

Breathability

The Spire GTX excels in breathability, featuring Gore-Tex Surround technology that allows moisture to escape while keeping water out. The mesh upper further enhances breathability, ensuring that feet remain dry and comfortable. This makes the shoe suitable for various weather conditions, though it may be less breathable than non-waterproof options in hot climates. Overall, the Spire GTX offers a good balance of waterproofing and breathability.

Stability

Stability is a key feature of the Spire GTX, with its design inspired by hiking boots. The shoe offers a stable and supportive base, thanks to the compression-molded EVA midsole and TPU inserts. The Stability Control System enhances security on steep terrain, while the low-cut design provides lateral support. This makes the Spire GTX a reliable choice for hikers who need stability on challenging trails.

Durability

The Spire GTX is designed with durability in mind, featuring an abrasion-resistant mesh upper and a Vibram XS Trek outsole. However, the use of lightweight synthetic materials may raise concerns about long-term durability. The TPU toe cap and heel provide added protection, ensuring the shoe remains intact on rugged trails. While the shoe is durable for its weight, those seeking maximum durability may need to consider other options.

Grip

The Spire GTX offers excellent grip, thanks to its Vibram XS Trek outsole. The deep lug pattern provides traction on various terrains, from loose sand to polished stone. The Stability Control System enhances grip on steep ground, ensuring safety during hikes. This makes the Spire GTX a reliable choice for hikers who encounter diverse trail conditions, offering confidence on both wet and dry surfaces.

Flex

The Spire GTX offers a good balance of flexibility and support, thanks to its abrasion-resistant mesh upper and compression-molded EVA midsole. The shoe is designed to provide responsiveness on the trail, allowing for agile movement. While the shoe offers flexibility, it also provides enough support to prevent fatigue during long hikes. This makes the Spire GTX a versatile choice for those who need both flexibility and support in their hiking footwear.

Who should buy the La Sportiva Spire GTX?


The La Sportiva Spire GTX is ideal for hikers who prioritize waterproofing and traction on challenging terrains. It's a great choice for those who enjoy day hiking and multi-day backpacking trips, offering comfort and support for long distances. The shoe's lightweight design makes it suitable for fastpackers who want to shed weight without compromising on performance. If you value advanced technology and are willing to invest in a high-performance hiking shoe, the Spire GTX is a worthy option.

Who should not buy the La Sportiva Spire GTX?


The La Sportiva Spire GTX may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget, as it comes with a higher price tag. If you prefer maximum durability over lightweight design, you might want to consider other options. The shoe's waterproof design may also be too warm for hiking in hot climates, so those who prioritize breathability might look elsewhere. Additionally, if you have a very flat foot, the shoe's arch support may not be ideal, and you might need to explore more orthotic friendly options.

La Sportiva Spire GTX: What's it good for?


The La Sportiva Spire GTX is well-suited for day hiking and multi-day backpacking trips, offering a balance of comfort and support. Its Gore-Tex technology ensures waterproof protection, making it ideal for wet conditions. The shoe's lightweight design is perfect for fastpackers who want to move quickly without sacrificing performance. With excellent traction and stability, the Spire GTX is a reliable choice for challenging terrains and technical trails.

5 La Sportiva Spire GTX FAQs


Is the La Sportiva Spire GTX suitable for backpacking?

Yes, the La Sportiva Spire GTX is suitable for backpacking. Its lightweight design and advanced waterproofing make it ideal for multi-day trips.

How does the Spire GTX perform in wet conditions?

The Spire GTX performs excellently in wet conditions, thanks to its Gore-Tex Surround technology that provides waterproof protection while maintaining breathability.

Is the Spire GTX comfortable for long hikes?

Yes, the Spire GTX is comfortable for long hikes. Its compression-molded EVA midsole and Ortholite insert provide cushioning and support, reducing fatigue.

Does the Spire GTX offer good traction?

Yes, the Spire GTX offers excellent traction with its Vibram XS Trek outsole, providing grip on various terrains.

Is the Spire GTX suitable for hot climates?

While the Spire GTX offers good breathability, its waterproof design may be too warm for hot climates. Consider non-waterproof options for better breathability.

La Sportiva Spire GTX alternatives

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released
Released
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Feb 2023Jun 2020Aug 2019Sep 2022
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Weight
Weight
M: 439 g
W: 371 g
M: 471 g
W: 371 g
437 g
M: 397 g
W: 320 g
454 g
Usages
Usages
BackpackingBackpacking | SnowDay hiking
BackpackingDay hikingDay hikingDay hikingDay hikingSpeed hikingDay hikingSpeed hiking
Brand
Brand
La Sportiva
SalewaMerrellMerrelladidasScarpa
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Lightweight
Lace-to-toeLightweightLace-to-toeLightweightLace-to-toeLightweightLightweightLace-to-toeLightweight
Antimicrobial
Antimicrobial
Heel brake
Heel brake
Techs
Techs
Gore-TexOrthoLiteVibram
Gore-TexVibramMerrell Air CushionVibramMerrell Air CushionGore-TexGore-Tex
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La Sportiva Spire GTX: what the experts say (2 reviews)

La Sportiva Spire GTX characteristics and specifications

Specificationsvs Average
Released
Jul 2018
Measurements
Weight
M: 439 g
W: 371 g

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. Heโ€™s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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