Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX

Our View – Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX:

The Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX is a durable, reliable walking shoe with an excellent fit for a comfortable, breathable and light weight walking shoe. The “Pro” is the nubuck leather version of the original synthetic fabric shoe which makes this much more durable, protective and therefore more suitable for typical British weather and underfoot conditions.

While the shoes leather uppers provide natural water-resistant, this is supported by the GORE-TEX ePE membrane that runs throughout. This new Gore PFAS-free waterproof and breathable membrane provides excellent protection from water ingress during wet weather or puddle splashing. We believe that the combination of leather and GTX is one of the most reliable combinations you can get for waterproof footwear. Obviously being only shoe height, the waterproofing is only as high as the ankle and therefore doesn’t offer the same level of protection.

The Presa rubber outsole has proven grip, especially on rocky terrain meaning the shoes can stand up to a little scrambling if you come across it on a hike. Lug distribution is ideal for providing grip on a wide range of surfaces from rock fields to meadows and everything in between. Not as aggressive as some, but perfect for the easy to moderate terrain the shoes are designed for.

As with all footwear (and clothing) fit and comfort is a very personal thing, with your own foot shape, arch height and usage determining how comfortable a certain shoe is. That said of the fit is right for you the Scarpa Rush 2 Pro has a lot to offer comfort wise. Its lightness is an initial positive, giving a feeling of freedom on the trails while still offering ample support, cushioning and protection. For a boot that is relatively lightweight and has a dynamic DNA, the shoe offers a surprising amount of stability alongside its agile feel.

There is ample support and cushioning to keep you going for mile after mile and provided the terrain isn’t too technical it will keep you feeling fresh and comfortable for longer days out. The cushioning feels relatively firm, but that also means it is responsive, and you’ll feel less of the rocks and trail debris through the sole. The nubuck upper keeps things soft and flexible but is also a tough barrier to trail damage from protruding brambles, rocks and branches.

Support is also evident throughout the sole unit, which is on the stiffer side of things, but not totally, allowing a nice level of flex through the foot strike cycle. A TPU frame provides the majority of support and certainly adds lateral stability that is very evident when wearing the shoes on cambered and uneven terrain, when the foot feels nicely planted to the ground. Finishing points include a protective toe cap and heel stabilisation for solid all-round protection.

Fit wise, the Scarpa Rush series generally runs on the narrow side of things, but not as narrow as many Italian brands can be and in terms of length, as with most walking & hiking footwear we tend to find most people go up ½ to a full size and the Scarpa Rush 2 Pro is no different.

 In conclusion, the Scarpa Rush 2 Pro is an excellent choice if you are looking for a relatively lightweight, durable and protective walking shoe that remains agile and comfortable on a wide range of terrain. It is especially suited to spring, summer and autumn use when you can typically get away with a shoe rather than a boot and the weather is generally less extreme (usually!).

Specifications - Scarpa Rush 2 Pro GTX:

• GORE-TEX® ePE membrane offers breathable, sustainable waterproof protection.
• Nubuck leather (PFC free) upper provides comfort, increased durability and a rugged, natural aesthetic.
• Light lace loops ensure even pressure and a secure, adaptable fit.
• IKS (Interactive Kinetic System) technology provides 7 targeted cushioning areas across the forefoot and heel, offering progressive bodyweight support.
• Dual-density EVA midsole with TPU heel frame absorbs shock and adds support.
• Anti-Torsion System improves stability on uneven ground.
• Reinforced toe box enhances protection against trail debris.
• PRESA® HIK-03 outsole with IKS technology provides reliable grip and targeted cushioning.