UKC

Hello all, shoe gurus, tech wizards help needed!

I have some la sportiva tx4s which I rate highly, however, I am looking for something with a stiffer sole/thicker lugs/aggressive heel brake.

Which approach shoe would be the closest to a low cut B1 boot? I'm after very stiff, but not planning to use any form of crampon or micro spike.

I have looked at the scarpa mescalito but it doesn't have much of a heel brake.

Any and all help appreciated! Thanks.

I've just been recommended very stiff, carbon? insoles by a colleague. Does anyone have experience of these? Ta

Try

Boreal Drom 

Scarpa Zodiac 

I think the ribelle run XT was hellishly stuff when I looked too

The Scarpa Zodiac. Stiffer than a Mescalito or TX4, with a more agressive sole. The Drom from Boreal is also fairly stiff, and the Mountain Trainer from Salewa, but the Zodiac is stiffer.

I have La Sportiva Boulder X which are pretty stiff., seemingly stiffer than TX4. 

I wouldn't suggest using carbon insoles - I have some for a foot issue and softer shoes tend to just mould around the insoles. 

Boreal Drom is a great shoe as long as it fits

Sportiva TX6

Not the OP's question but I'd not noticed the Scarpa Zodiac. It looks very much like my la sportiva guide leather but may fix my complaints with it (like the toe box seemingly designed to catch water). When my guides wear out maybe start of next year? I'll try zodiac for fit. Thank you!

Another vote for the Drom. They were far too stiff for me.

Clogs? Used to be a big thing in the climbing world.. 😉 

Scarpa Zen Pro are stiff enough to kick footsteps in firn. TX4’s bend when trying that. The Zen’s are fine downhill in slippery conditions too. 

Garmont Dragontail Mnt are one of the stiffest shoes available. Check the reviews on line for them.

Not light but very robust

I know someone who goes scrambling and diff climb in Crocs. It's just wrong!!!!!

I have a pair an unused of Zodiac shoes size 41 for sale, simply too big - been using TX4s size 38

https://www.grisport.co.uk/safety-boots-c80/quartz-black-safety-shoe-p5972

How stiff did you want?

All jokes aside, I've some Grisport approach shoes / trainers, they're not at all stiff, but they're very nice and good value I think.  A brand worth considering when shoe shopping.

I don't have experience of the La Sportivas mentioned above, but can confirm the Garmont Dragontails are very stiff and supportive, and still waterproof after 3 years use.