RAPID XT FEMMES

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.

Since La Sportiva discontinued their TX3 and TX4 lines, I went looking for another approach shoe with a wide(r) toe box. The Scarpa Rapid fit the bill almost perfectly. I say 'almost' because, if you have really wide feet then I recommend going up one size, which worked great for me. And this is the reason why I brought the 'Width' setting down one notch.

I wore them around the house for a few days before putting them to the trail test; they passed with flying colors. I couldn't be happier that I found an approach shoe that fits my style of hiking. Thanks,Scarpa!

I only bought the Rapid XT because Scarpa stopped selling the Mescalito in North America. Taken on its own, this may not be a bad shoe. But compared to the Mescalito it’s inferior in every category except maybe looks. The fit is narrower, the sole is less stiff, there’s less cushioning underfoot, and both the laces and the lacing system are a downgrade.

Like another reviewer, I ended up sourcing a pair of Mescalitos online rather than settle for this one. In my case that meant importing them from a shop in Europe. Scarpa, please bring the Mescalito back!