Sportiva Spire GTX?

[Joey G]

 

I’m looking for a new trail runner for my backpacking trips this year. Last year I used the Alta Lone Peaks. I did like feeling the ground, especially jumping on boulders on the Washington coast, but my foot would easily kind of slide in them when I needed some extra grip.

I wanted to maybe try the La Sportiva Spire GTX this year. I tried some on and even though they don’t have the wide toe box, they were really comfortable. My concern is the gore-tex. I’ve never backpacked in shoes with gore-tex and I’m afraid that my feet will sweat or something and cause problems. Is this a real concern? Does anyone have experience with this?

For reference both my trips will be at elevation in Washington again so temperatures won’t exceed 60 degrees.

 

https://www.sportiva.com/spire-gtx.html

[bradmacmt]

I have both Goretex and non-Goretex shoes (Salomon). I only wear the Goretex in cool, wet conditions. They’re just too hot in the summer, and because of the built-in Gore booty, there’s less padding in the heel which I’ve found problematic at times.

I’d think no more than 60* you’ll be fine.

 

 

[Murali C]

I have worn La Sportiva Lycan GTX on most of my trips – 375 miles of PCT-Washington, 500 mile CT, 175 miles of SHR and aorund 160 miles of AZT (in April – was hot). CT was also hot. I had no issues with sweating etc. I actually also wear Rocky Woods Gore-tex liners over my Injinji and then the GTX Lycan’s. No sweating at all. Never have to wash my feet – they look like I have done zero walking even after 20+ mile days – they are so clean.

Best is to try it on 3 to 4 hour hikes before embarking on a major trip. I always test my shoes for at least 4 hours on hikes. I had the Rockywoods Goretex liner as a precaution when I was hiking PCT-Washington section. One day I forgot to remove it after rain stopped. I then started wearing it the whole day and I haven’t looked back since. No blisters. No extra sweating. Keeps my feet clean and dry!

[Link .]

Have you tried on the AKASHA II Not an Altra width but not bad for La Sportiva and they are breathable.

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