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La Sportiva Spire GTX - Women's Review

A stand-out hiking shoe that features ample comfort, great traction, a stable base of support, and a high quality, durable, and waterproof mesh upper
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La Sportiva Spire GTX - Women's Review
Credit: Trish Matheny
Price:  $209 List
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Manufacturer:   La Sportiva
By Trish Matheny ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Nov 1, 2024
79
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#1 of 19
  • Comfort - 25% 8.0
  • Support - 20% 8.0
  • Traction - 15% 9.0
  • Water Resistance - 15% 9.0
  • Weight - 15% 5.5
  • Durability - 10% 8.0
Length Sizing
Runs Small
Runs Large
Width Sizing
Runs Narrow
Runs Wide

Our Verdict

The La Sportiva Spire GTX is a sporty yet incredibly stable hiking shoe with ample comfort for both wide and narrow feet. It performed well over all-terrain surfaces, whether out for a single or multi-day adventure. This versatile shoe proved itself over and over again to be supportive, protective, and tough enough to handle the rigors of rugged off-trail travel. Despite all the structural support, it wears relatively lightweight underfoot, and the Gore-Tex liner offers breathable waterproof protection. Though the shoe is more expensive than others that we tested, and we recommend sizing down if you find yourself between sizes, this is a top-quality hiker for those needing a solid, responsive foundation to support agile movement across the most technical terrain. To compare it to the competition, check out our article on the best women's hiking shoes.
REASONS TO BUY
Excellent traction
Responsive and stable support
Breathable waterproof protection
Comfortable right out of the box
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
Sizing runs large
100% recycled polyester laces may require replacement
Editor's Note: After a fresh round of testing, we updated this review on November 1, 2024.

Compare to Similar Products

 
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Women's Hiking Shoe
Top Pick Award
Best for Versatile Performance
Top Pick Award
Most Comfortable
Best Buy Award
Best Bang for the Buck
Best Buy Award
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Overall Score Sort Icon
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Bottom Line Featuring high-quality performance technology, this hiking shoe is designed to handle any backcountry challenge you dream upA comfortable, high-performing hiking shoe that's versatile enough to tackle everything from well-maintained trails to technical and steep terrainPrioritizing comfort above all else, this thoughtfully-designed hiking shoe is ready for any trailThis affordable hiking shoe offers great support for those with high archesThe lightweight design and sneaker-like feel provide ample comfort under foot
Rating Categories La Sportiva Spire G... Salomon X Ultra 4 G... Hoka Anacapa 2 Low... Merrell Moab 3 - Wo... Columbia Crestwood...
Comfort (25%)
8.0
7.0
9.0
8.0
7.5
Support (20%)
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
7.5
Traction (15%)
9.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
7.0
Water Resistance (15%)
9.0
9.0
7.0
4.0
3.0
Weight (15%)
5.5
6.5
6.6
5.3
6.8
Durability (10%)
8.0
8.0
6.0
7.5
6.5
Specs La Sportiva Spire G... Salomon X Ultra 4 G... Hoka Anacapa 2 Low... Merrell Moab 3 - Wo... Columbia Crestwood...
Measured Weight (per pair, size 8.5) 1.68 lbs 1.54 lbs 1.52 lbs (size 8) 1.70 lbs 1.50 lbs
Upper Abrasion-resistant mesh Synthetic textile Recycled mesh Pigskin leather, mesh Leather, mesh, and webbing
Lining Gore-Tex Surround Gore-Tex GORE-TEX Invisible Fit waterproof/breathable membranes Recycled mesh Omni-Tech
Midsole EVA EVA EVA (30% sugarcane) Super rebound compound Techlite
Outsole Vibram XS Trek Rubber Contagrip Vibram Megagrip rubber Vibram TC5 Omni-Grip
Width Options Regular Regular Regular Regular, wide Regular, wide

Our Analysis and Test Results

The Spire GTX was inspired by mountain running and successfully combines the stability of a hiking boot with the agility of a trail runner. The design is notable for its excellent comfort straight out of the box and a stable and supportive base. The burly Vibram XS Trek with Stability Control System enhances traction on all types of terrain, and the abrasion-resistant mesh upper remains flexible while offering exceptional and breathable waterproof protection. This low-profile hiking shoe can do it all. It is perfect for hikers seeking to shed the extra weight of a hiking boot while prioritizing versatility and support for everything from steep and technical day hikes to multi-day trips into the backcountry.

Performance Comparison


We had some fun testing the traction and stability while rock-hopping through the Sierras.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Comfort


Though La Sportiva footwear tends to favor those with a narrow foot shape, we're happy to report that the Spire GTX offers comfort, straight out of the box, for both wide and narrow feet. Notable features of the Spire design include a high-quality, abrasion-resistant, and breathable mesh upper that increases comfort by releasing moisture from the shoe while offering protection on rugged trails without sacrificing flexibility or responsiveness underfoot. Though the design features a spacious toe box for toes to spread out naturally, it may offer the most comfort for those with a higher arch rather than a flat foot. If you often find yourself between sizes, we recommend sizing down, as some find the accommodating fit to run large. And, if you find yourself needing to reduce some of the space and increase the padding of the tongue on the top of the foot, some hikers have found tongue pads useful to add a bit more cushion and fill some of that extra volume.


The combination of the compression-molded EVA midsole and 5mm Ortholite insert offers a ton of support and shock absorption under the foot as well as adequate padding surrounding the entirety of the ankle. Our testers appreciated this somewhat low-profile padding that amplifies comfort and breathability by avoiding the added heat and bulkiness of an overly-padded construction that can minimize comfort after multiple hours on the trail. During our spring testing period, we found the laces to successfully lock the foot in place, whether moving up or downhill, though some previous testers of varying foot shapes have noted the lacing system requiring multiple adjustments throughout their hikes. Therefore, if you find yourself requiring lots of adjustment, we highly recommend an after-market shoelace that is less rounded than what comes with the Spire. Overall, our lead tester, who has a narrow foot with a high arch, was satisfied with the fit and comfort she experienced from this shoe.

la sportiva spire gtx for women - the heel has just enough padding and soft material to increase...
The heel has just enough padding and soft material to increase comfort without adding bulk or reducing breathability.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Support


The Spire GTX offers ample support for varying foot shapes and sizes. The construction includes a compression-molded EVA midsole that, combined with the thin, 5mm Ortholite hiking insole, allows you to pick up the pace by absorbing the shock encountered underfoot on steep and technical hiking trails. Though this design features a burly outsole and structural arch support, the abrasion-resistant mesh also maintains flexibility for impressive trail responsiveness.


While conducting our support tests that involved wringing out the shoe like a sponge to determine lateral flexibility, the Spire delivered solid rigidity when twisted in both directions. Additionally, the lacing system aided in overall security when we hit the trails, both with or without a pack. Though this is not one of the lightest designs we tested, we're grateful for the lightweight feel underfoot, which provided enough support to prevent early fatigue and allowed us to push miles while moving through any trail system.

la sportiva spire gtx for women - this shoe offered enough support for spring ski approaches when...
This shoe offered enough support for spring ski approaches when you're often weighed down with extra gear in your pack and moving over varying snow conditions.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Traction


The design of the Spire GTX features an incredibly sturdy base thanks to the durable Vibram XS Trek outsole that performs well in all types of terrain. Additionally, the Spire offers a Stability Control System that resides on the heel of the shoe for added security when moving on steep ground. The deep and intricate lug pattern provides added grip and traction from loose sand to steep and polished stone.


During our spring testing period, we found these soles to perform well on polished and slippery granite slabs in addition to the ball bearings known as decomposing granite that can really test the performance of any outsole. Moving through snow patches, mud, and loose sand? Carrying a pack? The Spire is up for any backcountry challenge. Our testers were impressed and feel confident recommending this shoe for the most rugged outings.

la sportiva spire gtx for women - burly vibram xs trek gets the done job on all types of terrain.
Burly Vibram XS Trek gets the done job on all types of terrain.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Water Resistance


The Spire GTX really set itself apart from the other shoes in this review in balancing high-performing waterproof protection and breathability. Featuring Gore-tex Surround technology in addition to an upper mesh construction that ensures 360-degree breathable comfort, this shoe won't disappoint, especially if you're considering hiking during the spring when you will likely encounter melting snow and high-runoff conditions. The design also includes a high collar and one of the highest flood heights at 3.75 inches above the thick and burly outsole.


During our testing period, we were super impressed by the waterproof performance, especially when it meant the difference between completing our favorite loop or turning around due to inclement conditions. The Spire also passed our submersion tests, and we noted that the synthetic mesh upper never logged with moisture. However, it's worth mentioning that these shoes aren't as breathable as other options that don't feature a waterproof membrane; this is something you should consider if you're planning to hike in these shoes during the heat of the summer at lower elevations.

This fully waterproof design also features one of the highest measured flood levels at 3.75 inches. We also found it to be more breathable than similar models.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Weight


The Spire GTX weighs 1.68 pounds per pair for a US women's size 8.5. When considering the range of hiking shoes we tested, this shoe is one of the heavier designs in the lineup.


While the Spire isn't quite as agile as its trail running shoe inspiration, we never noticed the increased weight underfoot. In fact, we're happy to add a little extra weight in exchange for additional traction, stability, waterproof protection, and durability to enhance backcountry travel both on and off the trail.

la sportiva spire gtx for women - the waterproof design and sturdy base add a bit of extra weight to...
The waterproof design and sturdy base add a bit of extra weight to this design that weighs 1.68 pounds per pair for a US women's size 8.5.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Durability


If a high-quality and long-lasting design is what you're after, look no further. The Spire GTX features a durable and abrasion-resistant mesh upper that offers complete waterproof protection while remaining highly breathable (for a waterproof design). The TPU toe cap and heel provide added protection from sharp rocks and tree stumps on the trail as well as additional durability in the most susceptible locations of the shoe.


After hiking hundreds of miles between multiple testers of various foot shapes and sizes, we've identified perhaps one of the only caveats to this shoe. Though the lacing system is one of the most durable that we've tested, as it is reinforced with the same mesh upper material and offers a runner's eyelet for a customized fit, the laces are constructed from 100% recycled polyester material. While we didn't experience any issues with these laces during our spring testing period, other previous reviewers noted issues and required replacement.

la sportiva spire gtx for women - features like the abrasion-resistant and fully waterproof mesh upper...
Features like the abrasion-resistant and fully waterproof mesh upper in addition to the TPU toe cap for additional protection on the trail helped to increased the overall durability score for the Spire.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Should You Buy the La Sportiva Spire GTX?


Though the Spire GTX is expensive, it also offered the highest-performing design out of all the shoes in our testing group. It's one of the only shoes to provide enough support and stability that we're comfortable recommending it for extended backcountry trips in place of a hiking boot. The fit is comfortable right out of the box for various foot shapes, the design is stable and sturdy without added bulk or significant weight, and the waterproof upper remains breathable and flexible to increase responsiveness on the trail. This is the shoe that can do it all, whether traveling on or off trail, with or without a heavy pack; just keep in mind that the waterproof design may be a bit hot if hiking during the summer at lower elevations.

la sportiva spire gtx for women - whether you're headed out for a short distance or packing in...
Whether you're headed out for a short distance or packing in overnight, the Spire GTX doesn't disappoint.
Credit: Trish Matheny

What Other Hiking Shoes Should You Consider?


If you like the idea of a high-performing hiking shoe but you're on a tighter budget, check out the Merrell Moab 3 WP, which gave a solid performance in most metrics and is available at a more affordable price. If performance is important, but you'd rather shed some extra weight and features to pick up the pace, the The North Face VECTIV Fastpack FUTURELIGHT is one to seriously consider. And for a combination of the two, both performance and a lighter-weight design, the versatile Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex is closer to the design of a running shoe but with the added durability and waterproof performance of a hiker.

la sportiva spire gtx for women - our testers were happy to have the gore-tex surround membrane...
Our testers were happy to have the Gore-tex surround membrane protection of the Spire along for early season hikes when the snow melt had flooded the trail.
Credit: Trish Matheny

Trish Matheny