John Willard, Founder & Lead Guide @ Willard Mountain Guides
A must have for rock approaches and long hikes to the start of the climb. These things also climb like a dream in the alpine. A MUST HAVE!
Recommended in Rock Climbing
Brand: La Sportiva
Category: Climbing Approach
Recommended by Teddy Dondanville, AMGA Assistant Rock Guide & Certified Single Pitch Instructor — Albany, NY
Highlights: long distance, stability, durable, all day comfort
The TX Guide Leather by La Sportiva is a premium approach shoe that expertly blends Nubuck and Roughout leather for enhanced adaptability and durability. Designed for ultimate comfort and performance, it features a dual-compound outsole that provides exceptional stability and power on any terrain. 1. Constructed with a combination of Nubuck and Roughout leather for superior abrasion resistance and adaptability. 2. Lightweight design ensures comfort during extended wear without sacrificing performance. 3. Unprecedented dual-compound outsole delivers enhanced grip and stability on various surfaces. 4. Engineered for a snug fit, promoting agility and precision in movement. 5. Ideal for both casual and technical approaches, making it versatile for different climbing scenarios. 6. Breathable materials help maintain foot temperature and moisture control during active use. 7. Stylish design suitable for both outdoor adventures and everyday wear. The TX Guide Leather is perfect for climbers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a reliable approach shoe for rocky terrains and challenging trails. It excels in both casual hikes and technical climbs, making it ideal for various environments, from rugged mountains to urban settings. Best suited for intermediate to advanced users, this shoe performs exceptionally well in dry to moderately wet conditions, ensuring stability and comfort throughout your adventures.
Price: $189
The TX Guides are the approach shoes I wear on a daily basis. They are durable, stable, and climb really well. I can spend all day guiding in the Gunks without ever taking them off. I also like them for climbing areas with long approaches and for routes where I know I won’t need them to walk off.
Recommended by Teddy Dondanville, AMGA Assistant Rock Guide & Certified Single Pitch Instructor
The TX Guides are the approach shoes I wear on a daily basis. They are durable, stable, and climb really well. I can spend all day guiding in the Gunks without ever taking them off. I also like them for climbing areas with long approaches and for routes where I know I won’t need them to walk off.
Teddy Dondanville recommends the La Sportiva TX Guide Leather for climbing approach. The TX Guides are the approach shoes I wear on a daily basis. They are durable, stable, and climb really well. I can spend all day guiding in the Gunks without ever taking them off. I also like them for climbing areas with long approaches and for routes where I know I won’t need them to walk off.
Yes — Teddy Dondanville recommends the TX Guide Leather by La Sportiva as their climbing approach pick. The TX Guides are the approach shoes I wear on a daily basis. They are durable, stable, and climb really well. I can spend all day guiding in the Gunks without ever taking them off. I also like them for climbing areas with long approaches and for routes where I know I won’t need them to walk off.
Teddy Dondanville recommends it for long efforts: The TX Guides are the approach shoes I wear on a daily basis. They are durable, stable, and climb really well. I can spend all day guiding in the Gunks without ever taking them off. I also like them for climbing areas with long approaches and for routes where I know I won’t need them to walk off.
View Teddy Dondanville's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
4 experts recommend the La Sportiva TX Guide Leather.
A must have for rock approaches and long hikes to the start of the climb. These things also climb like a dream in the alpine. A MUST HAVE!
Recommended in Rock Climbing
The approach shoes fit a little tight/narrow, but climb almost as well as a rock shoe. I love wearing these on long mellow climbs, or more technical approaches where secure footing matters.
Recommended in Shoes
The old TX4 leather was my go-to approach shoe. It was durable, and climbed well enough for my taste. I've now switched to the TX Guide Leather. It climbs SO well, and it's comfy enough. I do wish it had a wider toe box, but comfort is sacrificed for performance.
Recommended in Guide Kit

The TX Guides are the approach shoes I wear on a daily basis. They are durable, stable, and climb really well. I can spend all day guiding in the Gunks without ever taking them off. I also like them for climbing areas with long approaches and for routes where I know I won’t need them to walk off.

The TX Guides are the approach shoes I wear on a daily basis. They are durable, stable, and climb really well. I can spend all day guiding in the Gunks without ever taking them off. I also like them for climbing areas with long approaches and for routes where I know I won’t need them to walk off.

