Kayland Vitrik Approach Shoes: Your Ultimate Companion for Steep Terrain

Rugged Durability Meets Comfort: The Vitrik’s upper is made from durable suede leather, reinforced at the toe and heel to withstand scuffing and rock falling on your toes. A double-density, microporous heel wedge adds extra stability and comfort on descents, giving these shoes a solid, boot-like feel that’s perfect for long alpine rock scrambles.

All-Weather Performance: With a Gore-Tex insert, the Vitrik kept my feet dry even during unexpected snow trudges. What’s more, these shoes are more breathable than most Gore-Tex footwear, a vital feature for those sweltering summer approaches.

Secure Fit for Climbing: Kayland’s ALS (Ankle Locking System) with asymmetrical lacing ensures that the shoe stays snug on your foot, even on long, unstable slopes. The down-to-the-toe eyelets allow for a precise fit around the forefoot, making them ideal for technical climbing.

Grip That Won’t Quit: The Vibram Gravity outsole, featuring the Megagrip compound, provides exceptional traction across a variety of terrains, from loose gravel to muddy trails. But where the Vitrik truly shines is on the rock. The grip is comparable to that of dedicated rock climbing shoes, making slabs, edging, and crack climbing a breeze. I found myself keeping them on long after I would usually have switched to traditional rock shoes.

A Few Trade-Offs: Weighing in at around 900g per pair, the Vitrik is not the lightest approach shoe on the market. They also aren’t the most compressible for packing. However, these are minor compromises for a shoe that performs so well in so many conditions.

Extra Protection Option: For those seeking even more ankle support, the Vitrik is also available in a mid-height model.

The Vitrik approach shoes strike a perfect balance between stability, protection, and climbing performance. Whether you’re hiking on talus slopes or tackling technical rock climbs, these shoes are worth a look.