Arc'teryx Vertex Speed Low Hiking Shoe vs Scarpa Men's Crux Approach Shoes

The Scarpa Crux is the safer buy for most people. It scores far higher with owners (4.7 from 346 ratings against 3.6 from 52) and is a proven, comfortable approach shoe with a suede and mesh upper and a grippy rubber sole. The Arc'teryx Vertex Speed is a lighter, more specialized hybrid built for fast mountain running and easy climbing, but owners report it runs large, fits narrow, is hard to put on and causes blisters from the built-in gaiter cuff. Pick the Scarpa for all-day comfort and scrambling; pick the Arc'teryx only if low weight and a snug, sock-like fit matter more than break-in and fit complaints.

• Choose the Arc'teryx Vertex Speed if you want the lightest possible shoe for fast mountain running with short climbing sections and you can try it on or size down.
• Choose the Scarpa Crux if you want a comfortable, supportive approach shoe for hiking, scrambling and long days on rock with a fit most owners find true to size.