Are trail running shoes suitable as hiking boots in the Alps?

Using the La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX – comparable to the Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra G – the question arises:
Can a trail running shoe replace a classic hiking boot?
The short answer: Yes.
But taking a closer look at the pros and cons is worthwhile.

One of the most important differences is weight.
Trail running shoes are much lighter than traditional hiking boots. And in the mountains, the rule is: everything you don’t have to carry saves energy. A clear plus for trail running shoes.

If you’re planning a hut tour with long approaches or have to run asphalt sections in between, you’ll quickly notice: stiff hiking boots are rather uncomfortable.
Trail running shoes score here with flexibility and offer more comfort on changing terrain.

A disadvantage of many models: most trail running shoes are only low-cut.
If you suddenly have to cross a stream without a bridge, your feet will get wet quickly.
This is where models like the La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX or the Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra G offer advantages: they are waterproof and reach over the ankle – so your feet stay dry even in deeper streams.

Hiking boots are more robust, especially around the ankle.
However: you can also twist your ankle in a hiking boot with one wrong step – so there is no decisive extra protection.
If you often bump into rocks on narrow trails, you’ll benefit from the thicker padding of hiking boots.
For mindful, sure-footed walking, however, the difference is minor.

One weak point remains: durability. On tours in the Karwendel, where there is a lot of scree, I quickly noticed the first signs of wear on my La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX. The result was a small hole at the upper edge. Robust hiking boots usually last longer here.

For sure-footed hikers who value low weight and flexibility, trail running shoes with a higher shaft and waterproofing are also a very good choice in the Alps – even for hut tours. However, if you are looking for maximum durability and lateral protection, classic hiking boots are the safer bet.