Guide Gear Review: La Sportiva Xplorer

Recently, I’ve been out in La Sportiva’s latest approach shoe incarnation, the Xplorer. I first heard mention of this shoe from a Sportiva employee after inquiring why they hadn’t yet released an updated Exum model. I prefer approach shoes that provide enough cushioning for long days in the Park or trail runs/scrambles in the Flatirons.

 

 

The Xplorers are the right kicks for the job. They offer a bit more support in the midsole than the old Exums, while still maintaining a cushy flexibility. The lacing system, which extends all the way to the toe, makes adjustments between trail and technical terrain easy. After a recent outing in Eldo, where I covered a bunch of moderate 5th class rock in these guys, I was pleased with the way that the reinforced toe stands on small edges. Not much of the rollover that is common to other tennies.