Review: La Sportiva TX4
People often ask which is better – boots or low-cut approach shoes/trail runners – and the answer has always been the same: horses for courses. However, if I had to pick one shoe for almost all situations, it would be the La Sportiva TX4!
Key Information
Price (at time of writing): R4299
Weight: Roughly 400g per shoe (Size 10 UK)
Upper: Suede leather, with protective PU rand and rubber toe.
Construction
One of the major benefits of boots is the tough, durable leather uppers that offer great protection against sharp rocks, sticks and general abrasion. The TX4 solidly ticks this box with its sturdy leather uppers, full-length 1.5mm PU TechLite rand and a burly rubber toe guard.
The tongue is fixed to one side of the inner wall of the shoe, preventing it from creeping to the side and limiting debris from working its way in from the top.
The heel cup and ankle collar are also cleverly designed, relying on precise construction instead of foam to determine the fit. This ensures a consistent shape and excellent long-term performance, as foam tends to compress and lose structure over time.
Fit
The fit is snug in the heel, with a wide, roomy toe box, allowing for swelling during long days on your feet and natural toe movement over technical terrain. This freedom of movement keeps your feet more comfortable and less fatigued after long hikes.
People with narrow feet might find the TX4 a bit roomy. Even with wide feet and a high arch, I had to tighten the laces once or twice throughout the day to lock my feet in place. If you have narrow feet, the La Sportiva Boulder X might offer a better fit.
The TX4’s lacing system is also worth mentioning. A loop of cord runs along the laces and around the heel, effectively eliminating heel-slippage. The laces extend down to just behind the toes, allowing for a very precise and custom fit.
Comfort & Support
Historically, sturdy and supportive footwear has come at the cost of comfort – not so with the TX4. After months of use, I can confirm that even after full days of hiking on rough terrain, my feet never felt sore or strained.
The wide toe box allows natural movement, while the midsole strikes a perfect balance – soft enough to prevent hotspots, yet firm enough to support a heavy pack and absorb rough terrain. I comfortably carried a 20kg pack for full-day hikes in these shoes without any issues.
Another key design element is the sole’s slightly wider, outward-angled profile. Many approach shoes narrow where the upper joins the sole, increasing pressure on the inner foot and the risk of rolling an ankle. The TX4’s wider stance enhances stability and disperses impact effectively.
Traction
The TX4 excels on technical terrain and scrambling routes. Technical routes like Table Mountain’s India Venster, Ledges or Hiddingh Ascension are a joy with the grippy “Climbing Zone” under the big toe. The softer compound rubber allows excellent edging and confidence on smaller holds.
The Vibram sole provides excellent traction on all surfaces, including mud. The lugs shed dirt efficiently, and the heel’s “Impact Brake System” helps control descent on loose terrain.
Durability
La Sportiva is known for exceptional craftsmanship and the TX4 upholds that reputation. After roughly 120km on mixed terrain — gravel, sand and rough sandstone — the shoes show minimal wear.
Friends who’ve used theirs for longer, from 5-day kloofing trips to 10-day treks in Patagonia, report the same: the TX4s just keep going. They’re a reliable companion for mountain guides and serious hikers alike.
Weight
At roughly 400g per shoe (800g per pair), weight is not a concern. Compared to most hiking boots, you’re getting similar protection at about half the weight.
Best Applications
The TX4 is a true all-rounder. It shines on technical terrain and performs superbly on routes like the Magaliesberg, Table Mountain, Jonkershoek, or the Drakensberg rock passes.
Value
At R3599, the TX4 isn’t cheap. But when you consider its performance, comfort and versatility, it offers far more value than buying separate boots and trail shoes. If they fit your feet, you’ll never regret the investment.
Conclusion
The La Sportiva TX4 delivers exceptional comfort, support and durability in a lightweight design. It’s perfect for hikers who demand performance across varied terrain. Equally at home on scrambles or multi-day hikes, this could easily be the best hiking shoe you’ll buy in a long time.
These shoes were provided for review by Adventure Inc. They’re available from specialist outdoor retailers such as Mountain Mail Order and Drifters.