Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX Hiking Shoe Review
The nubuck leather Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX is one of the more capable hiking shoes, short of a true approach shoe. We wore it throughout roughly 80 miles in Colorado and Utah, including rocky mountain trails, desert scrambles, and tight slot canyons. In those conditions, it stood out for its stability, versatile grip, and confidence-inspiring protection, while still remaining lightweight and comfortable enough for longer days that mix trail and off-trail travel. Its waterproof leather build makes it overkill for mellow summer hikes, but for those who regularly venture onto rugged terrain and want a low-cut shoe that can handle it without hesitation, the Rush 2 Pro GTX hits a really compelling sweet spot.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Weight
1 lb. 7.2 oz.
Waterproof
Yes
Upper
Leather
Outsole
Presa HIK-01
Pros
Cons
Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX
For this season's top models, see our guide to the Best Hiking Shoes.
The Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX strikes a nice balance between structure and comfort, landing somewhere between a flexible trail runner and a stiffer hiking shoe. When I first saw it, my initial thought was that it looked overbuilt for summer day hiking, with a substantial chassis and a burly upper that almost suggests insulation. But once on my feet, it felt light, agile, and easy to love. Out of the box, I took it on an 8-mile hike in Golden Gate Canyon State Park in Colorado, and it required minimal break-in, with no pressure points or discomfort from the start.
Underfoot, the cushioning leans more supportive than plush, with a moderate stack that prioritizes stability over a max-cushioned, cloud-like feel. The tongue is well-cushioned, and the overall fit feels plush and secure without being overly padded. It’s not the sink-in, ultra-cushioned comfort you get from lightweight trail running shoes, and it’s certainly not lightweight or rockered enough that it makes me want to jog. But when I’m looking for a shoe that balances all-around hiking performance with comfort, the Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX has become a go-to.
One caveat here: With its nubuck leather upper and waterproof membrane, the Rush 2 Pro GTX is most comfortable in cool, wet conditions—think shoulder-season hiking in Utah or Northern Arizona, or snowy summer terrain in the Pacific Northwest, Colorado, or the Sierra. It’s also a great peak-bagging shoe for routes where you might encounter wind, cold, or lingering snowfields. I especially liked using it for approaches to larger peaks, where it paired well with gaiters and kept my feet warm and dry while slogging through slushy snow before switching into full-shank mountaineering boots and crampons higher up. That said, it’s not the shoe I’d choose for warm, dry conditions, where the waterproof membrane adds unnecessary warmth and a more breathable shoe that dries quickly simply makes more sense.
I spend a lot of time on class 2+ terrain—angled slabs, boulder hopping, and awkward foot placements—and prefer hiking shoes that don’t collapse underfoot when I’m moving across uneven ground. The Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX delivered exactly that, striking an ideal balance between structure and flexibility. Thanks to its supportive nubuck upper, rigid chassis (dubbed the Dynamic Stabilizer Torsion frame), and relatively firm midsole and outsole, it feels solid and supportive underfoot while still allowing enough give to move naturally when stepping out of less-than-ideal positions. The low-cut design sits below the ankle bones, which I appreciated for its full ankle mobility.
I tested the Rush 2 Pro GTX across a mix of scrambling routes, Utah slot canyons, and mountain trails in Colorado, usually with daypacks under 15 pounds. Once spring mountaineering season arrived, I also started using it for approaches to longer climbs, including snowfield crossings with packs weighing up to 40 pounds. Across all of that terrain, the shoe felt stable and predictable without ever becoming overly stiff or restrictive. I’d compare it to a more agile, trail-runner-inspired version of the La Sportiva TX4: It delivers excellent stability and confidence on uneven terrain, but avoids the clunky, overly grounded feel that many approach shoes suffer from.
The Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX uses Scarpa’s PRESA HIK-01 outsole, which combines mid-sized, well-spaced lugs with dual-density rubber. Across the toe and ball of the foot, you get softer red rubber that prioritizes grip; on the heel, Scarpa patterned a harder, more durable black rubber.
The shoe’s grip proved consistently reliable across the wide variety of terrain I encountered while exploring Utah’s canyon country. It performed especially well on rock—even sandy sandstone—where I felt stable and confident while boulder hopping and scrambling. In mud, traction was about as good as you can realistically expect: Nothing is truly slip-proof in slick, mucky conditions, but the lug spacing shed debris well and maintained decent contact with the ground. As conditions shifted into summer alpine terrain and snowfield crossings, I was equally impressed by how confidently the Rush kept me on my feet. The outsole also handled loose scree and steep snow better than most trail runners, providing a stable platform for heel plunges and dependable grip on steep descents.
Where the Rush 2 Pro GTX starts to show limitations is on steeper rock. Like the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3 GTX, it lacks a defined climbing zone (a smooth patch of rubber under the toe, ideal for edging), and the lug pattern is more trail-oriented than approach-focused. If you’re spending a lot of time on class 4 terrain, a dedicated approach shoe will perform better. But for everything else—mixed trails, scrambling, and variable conditions—the Rush 2 Pro GTX delivers some of the best traction in its class.
Showcasing Scarpa’s Italian shoe-making heritage, the Rush 2 Pro GTX is impressively well-built—on par with many traditional leather hiking boots, but in a lighter, more modern package. The upper features predominantly nubuck leather with a synthetic heel cup and tongue, backed by a Gore-Tex ePE membrane for waterproofing. It feels thick, protective, and confidence-inspiring without being overly heavy. Details like tightly stitched lace loops and a robust rubber toe cap that wraps evenly around both sides of the forefoot add to the sense of quality and long-term durability.
I’ve put around 100 miles on these shoes across rocky Colorado trails, abrasive desert terrain in Utah, and early-season mountaineering in the Rockies, including a full day squeezing through tight slot canyons where the uppers were constantly rubbing against sandstone. Even after that, the outer material still looks nearly new, with no noticeable abrasion or damage. The only minor issue so far has been some cosmetic wear to the printed Scarpa branding on the insole. All told, the Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX feels like a shoe built for the long haul.
The Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX delivers top-tier protection for its class, handling rocky, uneven terrain with ease. Up front, there’s a substantial rubber toe cap—about 1.5 millimeters thick—that wraps symmetrically around both sides of the forefoot, offering more coverage than most designs that only protect the tip of the toe. And it works: I never felt pain when kicking rocks, kicking steps in snow, or moving through tight, technical terrain.
The heel is even burlier, with a thick rubber strip running from the collar down to the midsole, paired with a rigid heel cup that adds noticeable impact protection—especially when descending scree or snow. Underfoot, isolation is excellent. I could still feel sharp edges if I stood directly on them, but for the most part, the shoe filtered out harsh impacts so well that I wasn’t thinking about what was underfoot. Overall, the Rush 2 Pro gives me a lot of confidence in technical or off-trail terrain, more along the lines of an approach shoe than a standard hiking shoe or trail runner.
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PFAS-Free DWR
Durable water-repellent (DWR) finishes can contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These highly persistent “forever chemicals” are used in outdoor gear for their strong resistance to water, oil, and heat, but are linked to environmental contamination and a range of health concerns. A green check mark indicates the product uses a PFAS-free DWR, while a red X means the DWR contains PFAS.
PFAS-Free Waterproof Membrane
The membranes used in waterproof products such as rain jackets, ski jackets, and shoes can contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These highly persistent “forever chemicals” are valued for their resistance to water, oil, and heat, but are linked to environmental contamination and a range of health concerns. A green check mark indicates the product’s waterproof membrane is PFAS-free, while a red X means it contains PFAS.
Responsible Leather
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Bluesign Approved
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Recycled and/or Reduced Packaging
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Resale and/or Recycling Services
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Annual Impact Report
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Scarpa lists the women’s Rush 2 Pro GTX at 11.6 ounces per shoe (1 lb. 7.6 oz. per pair), and on my scale, my size 41.5 checked in at 1 pound 13.8 ounces total. That puts it on the heavier end of the hiking shoe spectrum. For context, lighter options like the Hoka Speedgoat dip closer to a pound per pair, while something like the Salomon X Ultra 5 GTX sits more in the middle at around 1 pound 6.6 ounces. The Rush 2 Pro GTX lands closer to burlier approach shoes like the La Sportiva TX4 Evo, which speaks to its more robust, leather build.
On trail, that weight is noticeable—but not necessarily in a bad way. The Rush 2 Pro GTX doesn’t disappear on your feet like an ultralight trail runner, but it also never felt clunky or fatiguing. Even after long days—like a 10-hour desert push—I found myself focused on the terrain and scenery rather than thinking about foot discomfort, which says a lot. I’ve even carried the Rush 2 Pro in my backpack on mountaineering objectives once it’s time to switch into full mountaineering boots, and they never feel overly burdensome or bulky strapped to my pack.
Waterproofing & Breathability
The Rush 2 Pro GTX uses a Gore-Tex ePE membrane, and in my experience, the waterproofing is excellent. Water beads cleanly off the upper and doesn’t soak in—I’ve worn them through slush, shallow puddles, and across snowfields without any moisture making its way inside. The membrane also adds a bit of insulation: In colder, windier desert conditions and on snowy trails, my feet stayed comfortably warm. The low-cut design does limit performance in deeper water crossings and true winter use, but that’s a reasonable trade-off for those who prefer a shoe over a boot. (And for what it’s worth, Scarpa offers the same design in a mid-height version with the Rush 2 Pro Mid GTX.)
Breathability follows the usual waterproof compromise. In still, warm conditions and especially on sustained climbs, my feet started to feel noticeably stuffy. The nubuck upper doesn’t help much here either; while leather does breathe, it runs warmer than most synthetics. All told, this is a shoe that I'll use most in shoulder season conditions or during spring and summer alpine climbing season, when snow crossing are common.
Lacing
The Rush 2 Pro GTX’s lacing system is a bit of a sleeper feature and one I truly came to love. The laces themselves have a slightly stiff edge that adds friction when tying, helping them stay locked in place throughout the day. I’ve never had to retie them—not once—which was a fun change of pace for my husband, who’s always giving me grief for needing to attend to my laces mid-hike. It’s a small detail, but one that makes a noticeable difference in everyday use. Honestly, when these shoes wear out, I’ll probably hang onto the laces and use them on another pair.
I typically wear a size 41.5 in hiking footwear, and the Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX in 41.5 fit me well right out of the box. The toe box offers a comfortable amount of room without feeling sloppy, and I found the heel fit to be more dialed than something like the La Sportiva Ultra Raptor 3, which can run a bit loose in the back. After multiple hikes, I haven’t experienced any blisters or hotspots. I’d consider the Rush 2 Pro GTX to run true to size, with a shape that should work well for a wide range of foot types.
La Sportiva Prodigio Hike GTX ($199): A Unique Alternative
The La Sportiva Prodigio Hike GTX is a capable mountain shoe but leans more heavily into a trail-runner-inspired design. It’s only slightly lighter (around 1 lb. 5 oz. per pair), but feels noticeably quicker on foot thanks to its more flexible build and pronounced rocker that encourages a smooth, forward stride. The higher, sock-like collar is another advantage, doing a better job keeping out sand and scree. That said, the Prodigio’s thinner synthetic upper sacrifices some protection and long-term durability, and its softer construction feels less planted when boulder hopping or moving across loose, rocky terrain. For technical hiking and rough terrain, the Rush 2 Pro GTX is the more capable option, while the Prodigio shines for faster-paced hiking in warmer weather where you still want waterproofing. For more, read our La Sportiva Prodigio Hike GTX review.
La Sportiva TX4 Evo ($189): Full Mountain Goat
The Rush 2 Pro GTX has some approach shoe attributes, but the La Sportiva TX4 Evo is the real deal. Specifically, it’s stiffer than the Scarpa and features a sole specifically tuned for technical rock with a defined climbing zone at the toe and shallower lugs that perform better on slab. But that focus comes with tradeoffs: The TX4 Evo is not as comfortable for long miles on trail, especially if your hikes are more hiking than scrambling. And while weight is fairly similar between the two, the TX4 Evo feels more clunkier and brick-like. If your routes involve frequent scrambling and technical rock, the TX4 Evo is the better tool. For more traditional hiking with occasional scrambling mixed in, the Rush 2 Pro GTX is the more versatile and comfortable option. For more, read our review of the La Sportiva TX4 Evo.
A burly, leather hiking shoe that feels like an approach shoe with a bounce in its step, the Rush 2 Pro GTX brings serious stability and protection to technical terrain. It’s overkill for summer conditions and casual trails, but a standout choice if your hikes regularly drift into off-trail terrain.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
La Sportiva Frankensteined the Prodigio Hike with a knit cuff upper and a rockered, trail runner-like base. The result is impressive on- and off-trail performance, although its fit is polarizing and the price is fairly steep.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
An approach shoe by design, the TX4 is protective, stable, and durable, and it offers particularly good traction on rock. The roomy toe box boosts comfort. However, the stiff design is not a great pairing for high-mileage days on established trails.
Comfort
Support and Stability
Traction
Durability
Foot Protection
Sustainability
Is the Rush 2 Pro GTX for You?
The Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX is best suited for hikers who regularly find themselves above treeline and want a shoe that prioritizes stability, protection, and durability on demanding terrain like boulders, scree, and mixed snow and rock. It shines in these conditions thanks to its supportive platform, grippy outsole, and burly build, while still offering more comfort than most approach shoes. This makes it a very practical choice for routes that mix technical sections with established trail. That said, its relatively heavy build and warmer, waterproof construction make it less appealing for hot, dry summer hikes or for those who prefer a lighter, more breathable, trail-runner-style shoe.
Go for it if you value a durable, protective leather shoe and want something more capable than most hiking shoes for off-trail travel, scrambling approaches, or rugged, uneven terrain.
Pass on it if you mainly hike on smooth, well-maintained trails, prefer a lightweight and breathable shoe for hot conditions, or want something with a softer, more cushioned ride.
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