The Scarpa Rush 2 GTX hiking shoes are marketed as shoes for fast-paced mountain pursuits, the Rush 2 GTX share a lot of similarities with running shoes – and actually work well for the odd run, making them a viable option for fastpacking. The uppers are made from mesh, reinforced with PU struts for durability, and there’s a two-part rand around the edge for protection (a step up from what you’ll find on most running shoes). They feel comfortable in a range of conditions although I haven’t been able to test them in hot weather.
Alex Roddie’s verdict
If they fit you, these offer a good halfway house between hiking and running shoes, ideal for the faster-paced backpacker. But they are also potentially less durable than dedicated hiking shoes.- Great for running & Fastpacking
- Fit over toes
- Sole durability
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £175 Weight: 450g (UK 11) Materials: fabric upper with welded PU reinforcements, dual-density EVA midsole with TPU heel frame Features: IKS technology, Sock-Fit construction, Anti Torsion System, 3D Toe Cap Waterproof: Gore-Tex Sizes: men: EU 40-46, UK 7-12.5; women: EU 36-42, UK 3.5-9.5 scarpa.co.uk |
The fit on the Scarpa Rush 2 is reasonably wide across the forefoot, but low enough in volume over the toes that I found them irritating the tops of my big toes on a particularly steep uphill climb. The ‘Sock-Fit’ construction may result in a little less space around the toes than you’re used to. This aside, overall I found fit to be about as expected, and they felt secure and stable on rough off-path terrain – even when running. They would not be my first choice for scrambling thanks to the soft feel underfoot.
The sole is a potential weak point. Although the midsole is thicker than you’ll find on most running shoes, the outsole is relatively thin, with lugs that are less well defined. I’ve found them to already start wearing down quicker than expected too.
If they fit you, these offer a good halfway house between hiking and running shoes, ideal for the faster-paced backpacker. But they are also potentially less durable than dedicated hiking shoes.
Written and tested by Alex Roddie
Alex tested this hiking shoe on a series of day hikes and overnight backpacking trips in the Cairngorms and West Highlands. All weights are as measured on Alex’s digital scale (size UK 11).
