Approach shoes fill a needed gap between hiking and rock climbing boots. Perfect for those adventures on the trail that may lead to some light rock exploration. And for situations where you’re traveling light and don’t have the room for two specific pairs of footwear. I find myself using them while Overland traveling and camping due to the versatile nature of the approach design. Mammut has long been a favorite of mine so I looked to them for a new pair of approach shoes. And they delivered with the Alnasca Knit II Low Approach Shoe. Originating from the companies already successful Alnasca shoe line, the Knit II Low is a lightweight version for those times of year were warmth is of little concern. Or adventures where waterproofness isn’t required.
So far this season hasn’t started the way any of us expected. A worldwide pandemic, “stay at home” orders and widespread economic decline hasn’t exactly allowed most of us to get outside and explore. Because of these crazy circumstances, my testing of the Alnaska has only consisted of chores around the house, daily wear and a few short trips into the woods. What I have found is that they are supremely comfortable on my feet all day. The elastic knitted sock construction of the upper is very different than any approach shoe I’ve worn in the past. Like taking the best attributes of a modern running shoe and affixing it to an aggressive hiking boot outsole. However, the knitted sock upper isn’t without support. Key areas have been reinforced to provide both protection and the type of support you’d expect from a full hiker.
Michelin Outsole
Striking a balance between flexibility and stiffness, The Michelin OCX Approach Rubber outsole consists of high tech rubber. Known for their high performance tires, French manufacture Michelin, has been dealing with this sticky substance for 130 years. The Alnasca provides excellent grip on everything from wet rocks to dirt, gravel and grass. Unlike other approach shoes I’ve tested, the Alnasca leans more towards the hiking pedigree with a medium knobby outsole. Versus a smoother rock climbing sole found in several approach shoes on the market. However, the toe box area does provide a sharpness suitable for edging into rock. And is further reinforced for such activities with adequate rubber toe protection of the upper.
Alnasca Knit II Low Features
- Last index: approachTech
- Flex index: A5
- Pre-shaped tongue construction
- Elastic knitted sock construction
- Cushioning Strobel construction with stone shield
- Double Layer Mesh
- Base Fit®: Sliding webbing transfers power from lacing area to soles, ensuring improved hold in boot to increase safety and comfort.
- Memo Foam: Ensures individual fit and cushions foot at instep, shin and ankle
- 360 Heel Support: The three-dimensionally shaped TPU element is designed for the anatomy of the heel bone, which it completely envelops. This delivers optimum heel fit, helps prevent twisted ankles and protects against rock abrasion.
- Rubber toe cap
- Michelin® OCX Approach rubber compound
- MSRP $139
The laces of an approach shoe tend to continue further down the upper towards the toe box than your typical hiker. The Alnasca features Base Fit®. A system that transfers power from the lacing areas directly to the sole. Providing a more secure fit in the boot for increased foot hold and comfort. This seems to be a major contributor to producing such grip in what most would assume a knitted sock construction wouldn’t provide. Yet it does, all while allowing more breathability and comfort than a comparable suede or Gore-Tex approach shoe.
Final Thoughts:
After a few trips into the woods for some overnight camping in the FJ Cruiser, the Alnasca has been a great single pair of shoes to pack. Capable of doing everything I ask of them, I don’t feel the need to pack more than one pair of shoes. From muddy low lands to dusty dry trails and some rock hopping around the river, I’ve felt as sure footed as an Ibex. Looking forward to this summer and hoping things are back to some sort of normal. I plan to further test these premium approach shoes out in Colorado, New Mexico and Utah.
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