RAPID XT HOMMES

I absolutely love the original Rapids as a hybrid approach/trail running shoe, but the new XT's are definitely a step up in the traditional approach shoe category, far better than the Crux or the Gecko in my opinion. It has a wider toe box, great shape, feels very supportive, hikes and climbs really well, and is much lighter than it looks. Since they have a leather upper, my only suggestion would be to go a half size down, as mine seem to have stretched a bit! Other than that they're perfect.

I've owned at least 5 pairs of the Zen model which was apparently replaced by the rapid xt. It was the best hiking /walking shoe I've owned.

The Rapid XT is lighter, and built on the same last which are positives. The shoe doesn't feel the same as its predecessor but feels secure, just not as rugged feeling--like you could wear it in difficult terrain..

Lastly the toe swirl (a la New Balance circa 1980's) is not a great cosmetic addition. Looks kind of silly.

I've had—and loved—Scarpa approach shoes for nearly a decade. Two pairs of Zen Pros, then two pairs of Mescalitos. Wore them for everything from approaches to hard alpine climbs, to long moderate rock routes (think: Mt. Kenya), to fast-and-light high peak ascents, to guiding backcountry hunts in the Rockies. They were stiff and protective and basically indestructible, lasting for years at a time.

Unfortunately, the Rapid XT is a dramatically different shoe than those previous models. They were softer out of the box than my two-year-old Mescalitos. And that lack of structure has meant that they have broken down VERY quickly. After just six months of light use, they are floppier than an old pair of sneakers. The toe box is also much wider than previous editions, meaning I had to get a very thick insole to make them fit (size 42, same as I've worn in every previous pair of Scarpas). And as they have stretched and softened, they now feel too roomy for any real precision.

There's nothing wrong with these shoes, per se. They are just more of a hybrid trail runner than a true approach shoe. I will continue to use them for light hikes and dog walks. But they just aren't up to the task of true alpine approach performance, where I want stiffness and protection. I have ordered a new pair of Mescalitos online while they are still available, and I hope that Scarpa will get back to a burlier approach model in coming years.