The North Face Smedge Approach Shoe

The North Face Smedge Approach Shoe – Great for technical approaches.

Many an outdoor product feature a strange name, but the North Face Smedge Approach Shoe is strange by any standards. So, just what does “smedge” mean? Well, it is a combination of smear and edge. Just what does that mean exactly? It means that once your approach starts to get a little hairy and a little vertical, the North Face Smedge Approach Shoe will be there to help. In fact, the shoes is designed for highly technical trails.

To keep the North Face Smedge Approach Shoe protected when the trail gets rough, you will find plastic overlays on the outside of the shoe. These protect the shoes mesh and help prevent it from getting torn in bad conditions. Just like any other good approach shoe, the North Face Smedge Approach Shoe has a super sticky rubber sole that grips to rock faces.

One feature that is especially nice on the North Face Smedge Approach Shoe is that the laces go all the way down to the toe. This helps offer the wearer a super snug fit all the way around. But, what is extra nice about the North Face Smedge Approach Shoe is how well it performs on the way to the approach thanks to its EVA cushioning.

The quick & dirty:

Where you can get one:
Backcountry.com: $89

Why they rock:

• Material: Suede, mesh
• Sole: Smearacle sticky rubber
• Lacing: Traditional
• Shank: Injection-molded TPU
• Weight: [Pair, size 9] 1lb 11oz (770g)
• Recommended Use: Getting to the climbing crag, moderate alpine climbs
• Manufacturer Warranty: 1 Year

Seat-of-the-pants rating: 9 out of 10

It is rare to a find a approach shoe that is comfortable during both the approach and the hike to the approach. The North Face Smedge Approach Shoe is still comfortable even when carrying a semi heavy pack for several miles.

Looking to buy? Check out these sites:
Backcountry.com: $89