Climbing shoe rubber comparison. Unsurprisingly, XS Grip 2 is the most used outsole .
- Climbing shoe rubber comparison. Read on for our 2025 picks from La Sportiva, Scarpa, and more! Jul 13, 2020 · Clearing up some misconceptions about climbing shoe rubber and talk about why it’s important to pay attention in choosing hard rubber or soft rubber climbing shoes. Similarly, other features such as the slight downturn, generous toebox rubber coverage, and single piece outsole contribute to a solid rock shoe for steep, overhung sport/bouldering both indoors and outdoors. Jun 12, 2025 · We put 23 pairs of climbing shoes to the test on boulder problems, sport climbs, and traditional routes. Size 1. Nov 11, 2023 · There are virtually endless types of climbing shoes available, and with over 500 different shoes currently on the market, it can be a pretty daunting experience trying to decide on your next pair of climbing shoes. Here's the best climbing shoes for beginner and intermediate climbers. Mar 23, 2024 · Most products use a generic, mass-produced rubber. Nov 10, 2023 · One of the most debated topics in the world of climbing shoes is the type of rubber your shoes are packing. Led by legendary shoe designer Heinz Mariacher, the Scarpa team has developed a wide range of propriety technology including some seriously sticky rubber, a few interesting rands, and a wide range of unique last shapes. May 18, 2024 · The quality of rubber used in climbing shoes greatly influences a climber’s ability to feel and trust the contact between their foot and the rock. The type of rubber will directly affect the grip, durability, and edging ability of your shoes. Jan 2, 2024 · The Scarpa Chimera is a premium climbing shoe designed for modern boulder problems and steep routes. THEORY - VERSATILITY Dynamic Technology™ and edge performance creates a versatile shoe for competition and high performance climbing. With a single velcro strap and slipper-like comfort, it’s incredibly sensitive but offers surprising edging ability thanks to La Sportiva’s P3 tensioned rand system and No-Edge sole technology. Unsurprisingly, XS Grip 2 is the most used outsole May 16, 2025 · In reply to Aled Williams: The differences is rubber will vary on temperature etc and unless using them right on the limits of coefficient of friction, with all other factors being equal mortals and even climbing gods often won't notice a difference. It is an extremely high-performance shoe, ideally for hard sport climbing, bouldering, and pushing your limits to the max. The toe has rubber that extends over the top that, combined with the stiff sole, make jamming less painful and more secure. On the other hand, outdoor climbing shoes should have thicker rubber soles that provide more grip when climbing on natural rock. The right pair can make the difference between sticking the crux or potentially taking a whipper. Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. Sep 22, 2019 · See our in-depth review of the La Sportiva Skwama climbing shoe, including details on the Skwama's performance, durability, fit and sizing, and more. 8 months is a totally reasonable amount of time to need a resole, especially climbing outside. As such, this rubber might be best for the heavier climber. Put this compound on your big wall shoe or on your limestone bouldering shoe. Apr 16, 2025 · We tested 27 climbing shoes for men from La Sportiva, Scarpa, Black Diamond, evolv, Five Ten, and more to find the best shoes for you, no matter how you Sep 13, 2024 · This study examines the tribological properties of climbing shoe rubbers, challenging the common belief in the climbing community that softer rubbers are inherently grippier. When to Resole Your Climbing Shoes Image prompt: "Close-up comparison of climbing shoe soles in various states of wear - showing perfect condition, ideal timing for resole, too worn for standard resole, and damaged beyond repair. Feb 12, 2024 · Here is the ultimate buyer’s guide for climbing shoes, complete with reviews and comparison table of the best climbing shoes available. Offers a good compromise between grip, edging, and durability on large typology of surfaces. As an Official La Sportiva resoler, we carry and supply La Sportiva Original Spare Parts (rubber soles) for most of La Sportiva climbing shoe models. If your outsole rubber is too stiff, you might not be able to weight your heel on a slab, and if it's too soft, you Durability: climbing shoe rubber needs to withstand the rigors of climbing, including abrasion against rough rock surfaces and repeated flexing. Building the first version of this list was simple: we simply asked ourselves which shoes we wanted included, then pulled from the reviews we’ve written over the years. These were our favorites. It's the bouldering and sport climbing shoe for most of us. We’ll look at the difference between soft and stiff soles. In comparison to other performance rock shoes the toe rand is pretty underwhelming, meaning you do have to place your foot accurately and deliberately to the toe hook. Vibram XS GRIP was the first compound that represented the new generation of Vibram high performance climbing rubbers. But finding the right shoes is about more than finding a pair with the best fit and stickiest rubber. . If you're looking for shoes with rubber that will last longer than that you'll need some hiking boots. But they can certainly help you perform at a higher level, and having the best climbing shoes for your project—that's climber speak for a route or climb you're working on—can make the difference between sending and going home disappointed. Now replaced by the equally impressive next-generation Shaman upgrade. Once you Dec 7, 2023 · The rubber-making masters at Vibram have plenty magical compounds up their sleeves, but it’s the ‘Climbing Performance’ range that we get really excited about. If your goal is steep climbing where you need to stand on vague features and pull on slopey holds, this is the shoe you want on your feet. 5 days ago · Pros Great price for a lot of value Comfortable Made from 40% recycled materials Long lasting and durable thanks to 5mm of rubber Cons Not great for overhanging bouldering and sport climbing The sole is insensitive due to the thick durable rubber The best affordable climbing shoes we’ve used is the La Sportiva Finale. The La Sportiva Finale is an all-around lace-up climbing shoe for comfort and performance in the gym, at the crag, or out bouldering. When it comes to climbing performance, the rubber compound on Nov 7, 2024 · Our selection of the best climbing shoes for crag days and gym sessions, whether you’re into bouldering, trad or sport climbing. Mar 12, 2025 · A sturdy pair of sticky rubber approach shoes can help you get to the crag while saving your feet for the real climbing; (Photo/Miya Tsudome) Support us! Apr 15, 2024 · The Evolv V6 has the attributes that help intermediate climbers advance. This study investigates the mechanical and wear characteristics of climbing shoe rubbers by employing a high-precision modular mechanical testing environment (Bruker UMT TriboLab) and representative granite counter Apr 16, 2025 · So we thought we’d compile a list of our favorite sport climbing shoes—the shoes that our editors and testers choose to climb in when we’re not testing new shoes. I can't say where Davos rubber fits in, but they sound pretty firm. Here’s a overview of the different types of rubber used in climbing shoes. May 30, 2025 · How Different Climbing Shoe Compounds Affect Performance on Various Rock Types Posted on 30 May 2025 0 In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore how different rubber compounds interact with various rock types, helping you make more informed decisions about your climbing shoe selection based on your preferred climbing environment. The La Sportiva Miura VS is a high performance climbing shoe with a hook-and-loop closure system for amazing edging control and pocket climbing performance. In contrast, a downturned soft shoe will allow you to dig deeper on overhanging terrain. Nov 11, 2023 · La Sportiva has some amazing climbing shoes, but with over 38 different models available, it’s not always easy to work out which shoe is best suited to you. Using a less thick rubber compound in this way means you have far more sensitivity in the heel. Finding Your Sole Rubber matters!Stack the odds in your favour by choosing a sole that suits your style of climbing. Jul 22, 2020 · With climbing becoming Olympic and all that involves, I see a future with short life very sticky shoes geared towards comps. Whether you're bouldering, gym climbing, or sport climbing outside, a comfortable shoe designed for climbing is essential to learn and grow in the sport. [1] Different types of shoes can be better suited for different levels of technique and routes. They are amazing outdoor shoes and I think they stick even better to rock than plastic, but they are still really nice and sticky for indoor climbing. The fast lacing system allows for quick and easy on/off and a perfect precise fit every time as well as added lace protection for foot jams when crack climbing. This is why many climbers invest in approach shoes. The full RH rubber sole and stiff midsole combination gives ultimate friction and versatility. Climbing terrains vary significantly, each presenting unique challenges that require specific features in your footwear for optimal traction and support. While traditional hiking boots suffice in some locations, climbing approaches are often technical and require scrambling across boulders and ascending low angle rock. This rubber sole provides good edging ability as well as comfort for long days of climbing. If you’re shopping around for a new pair of climbing shoes, you probably already know there’s a lot more to shoe choice than rubber compound. Oct 4, 2019 · Today it is also used on the Scarpa Instinct VS, the only bouldering shoe to feature this rubber. But there's often a trade-off between durability and stickiness, with softer rubbers typically wearing out Features THEORY - TOE CAP Rubber coated toe cap promotes confidence on toe hooks, toe scums, or heel-toe cam techniques. The laterally stiff sole also makes the shoe reasonable at edging while still allowing it to The difference in durometer of the same rubber between a winter climbing day and a hot summer climbing day could be like 20 shore. This affords you great precision in footwork and heel placement, but it does come at a price. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, the Is there anything in particular that you think the tarantulaces can’t do for you? For example do you need a stiffer shoe for support on tiny holds? A smaller toe box for pockets? A stickier heel for heel hooks? More rubber on top for toe hooks? This’ll help narrow down what type of show might be a good next shoe for you. The Evolv Agro was my former go-to bouldering and sport climbing shoe before Evolv retired this model in 2022. Jan 7, 2025 · When choosing climbing shoes, beginners often overlook how crucial factors like climbing style, shoe shape, fit, and closure systems are for comfort and performance. Typical climbing shoes have a tight fit, an asymmetrical downturn, and a sticky rubber sole with an extended rubber rand to the heel and the toe. The rubber for a pair of climbing shoes is a little different: most companies use special formulas that are specifically designed to perform well on rock and plastic holds. Scarpa Shoe Tech Scarpa’s R&D department is responsible for some of the most interesting shoe developments we have seen in recent years. Looking forward to your rubber comparison post! Other than Stealth C4, I’ve used and owned all the rubber you mentioned at one point. Feb 11, 2025 · We put 11 men's climbing approach shoes to the test from La Sportiva, Salewa, and Scarpa to find the best models. Sep 20, 2019 · See our in-depth review of the Scarpa Instinct VS climbing shoe, with details on the Instinct VS's performance, sensitivity, fit and sizing, and more. They frequently have a rubber rand around the toe and sides of the shoe for added durability and abrasion resistance. Each company used all three of the Vibram climbing compounds available ( X Grip, XS Grip 2, and XS Edge). 5 down if you’re Uber performance or like really tight shoes. See the La Sportiva Authorised Resoler page, FAQ's page for more information and see the Mountain Equipment article link. Engineered for precision and support, these shoes provide a snug fit that maximizes sensitivity and control. After all, nobody wants to struggle with discomfort when tackling a new route, feeling secure and confident in one’s footwear can make all the difference. Jun 22, 2018 · In a sport full of edges and ledges, La Sportiva is helping climbers bring out their best performance with the exact opposite. May 24, 2015 · Scarpa Techno-X: This is a great overall crack climbing shoe that performs exceptionally well on granite but also works very well on basalt and Red Rocks style sandstone cracks. Veryst Engineering performed friction and compression testing of two climbing shoe rubbers to quantify and compare their performance. One key to a good rubber is controlling—and being able to repeat—the chemical reactions between ingredients when the soles are made. Would be cool to see the guide expand to different segments for style of climbing, esp since it looks crowded in the performance section Jun 16, 2023 · How do you feel the wall beneath your feet while you climb? It has to do with the amount of stiffness and sensitivity in your climbing shoes. " Mar 7, 2025 · Climbing shoes also feature sticky, rubber soles that keep your feet on the wall. Dec 18, 2023 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Jun 19, 2018 · A side-by-side comparison of the La Sportiva Solution and Scarpa Instinct VS, including similarities, differences, sizing, stretch, and more. Pushing hard into small feet is what this compound is for, whether on a slab or in an overhang. Climbing shoe manufacturers want to create rubber that takes the shape of any tiny bumps or rock textures they are placed on. THEORY - HEEL Narrow Precision Heel allows for confidence while committing to the worst Apr 19, 2021 · This article will help you clarify the main differences in climbing shoe soles. Not only do they have one of the biggest selections of Vegan climbing shoes, but something for everyone, regardless of your climbing style or ability. This keeps them soft and sticky. Size 0. The rubber used in climbing shoes plays a crucial role in a climber’s performance, providing the necessary grip, durability, and sensitivity required for different types of climbing. Whether you're smearing on a friction slab, edging on steep terrain, or placing gear on a trad route, the right rubber enhances grip, durability, and control. Sep 18, 2022 · Being a softer, more sensitive climbing shoe, the Skwama naturally features a thinner heel cup. La sportiva solution and butora gomis are my go to right now. Also offering levels of comfort previously unheard of in such high performance shoes. The Theory’s soft and flexible nature, XS Grip 2 rubber, and variable thickness sole let Oct 27, 2023 · Approach shoes have stiffer soles than traditional climbing shoes, which gives them more traction on rough terrain. It's very important that your shoes Feb 11, 2025 · Couloir climbing in Southwest Montana – mountaineering crampons only. The softer rubber on the Comps might wear down faster if you're doing a lot of outdoor climbing so be aware of that. Oct 23, 2019 · See our in-depth review of the La Sportiva Miura VS climbing shoe, with our analysis of performance, rubber, construction, durability, fit, sizing, and more. But ngl, Tarantulaces are solid. So I'd stick with stickier, more sensitive rubbers — UnParallel RH would be my first choice, and XS Grip 2 would be second. Jul 7, 2025 · See our guide to the best rock climbing shoes of 2025, with reviews of the year’s top climbing shoes from La Sportiva, Scarpa, Evolv, Butora, and more. Jul 6, 2025 · Once you start climbing outdoors, you learn getting to the crag requires hiking. May 12, 2012 · I was looking at climbing shoes on the web and got to thinking which is actually the best rubber as there are some very different ones available From my own experience I have used the Vibram of Scarpa which I didn't get on with felt it didn't suit my technically rubbish climbing style (ha) I then went with Evolv and found them to be 'stickier' the zenith of all the rubbers seem to be the Mar 19, 2024 · Ten testers wore a dozen pairs over the span of two months tackling a variety of climbing to find the best climbing shoes. Nov 30, 2022 · The La Sportiva Theory is a purpose-made climbing shoe for hard indoor bouldering and competition climbing. 5 down from your street shoe for comfort fit. We offer a large selection of compounds and thicknesses. Understanding climbing shoe rubber and its impact on performance is essential for choosing the right shoe. Jan 2, 2024 · Both the bottom and top of the shoe are coated in sticky rubber, which makes these beasts best suited for steep climbing, gymnastic bouldering with toe and heel hooks, or enduro limestone routes with tufa pinches and sneaky kneebars. Does your statement in regard to Science Friction being not the stickiest rubber also apply to XF as well? Jan 22, 2025 · When climbing any vertical face, the sticky rubber of your climbing shoes allows for traction and precise footwork to help you ascend to new heights. Jun 14, 2013 · One of the interesting changes in approach shoes at this pricepoint ($100) is the transition from proprietary dot-tread climbing shoe rubber outsoles to molded Vibram rubber outsoles with a more hiker-friendly tread pattern. Vapor Slipper for wider toes, if you like sensitive, for bouldering and sport climbing. 11 in almost any shoe laceup, velcro, slip on, rubber all hardly matter. For each group of climbing shoes, the degree of softness/stiffness and a comparison of last volumes is indicated by the legend at the bottom of the image. The Scarpa Helix is a more versatile shoe than the La Sportiva Finale. In the La Sportiva Line. Rubber is much less of a big deal than it used to be. Rubber Both Scarpa and La Sportiva prominently use Vibram rubber for the vast majority of their shoes. Our collection features high-friction rubber that enhances grip and durability, ensuring you can tackle challenging climbs with confidence. Sep 30, 2024 · The difference between climbing shoes and any other pair of shoes you may own is the fit and the rubber—which isn’t just on the sole. Aug 19, 2023 · The sole is made of Vibram XS Edge rubber and EVA foam. Touted as a favorite by some of their biggest brand ambassadors and a leader in the No-Edge revolution, the La Sportiva Futura has changed the way we think about climbing shoes. Mar 17, 2023 · Are you confused about which type of climbing shoe to get? Would your style of climbing benefit more from stiff or soft rubber? It gets very confusing, doesn’t it? In this article, we’ll compare soft vs stiff rubber in climbing shoes. Mar 10, 2025 · The best climbing shoes just keep getting better. Oct 6, 2023 · Looking to up your climbing game? In this article, we’ll be exploring the impact of high-quality shoe rubber on climbing performance. Both the Crux, and the Boulder X have Vibram soles, whereas their predecessors had stickier, thinner, dot-tread like soles. They’re a classic for a reason. The rubber we use to resole your climbing shoes is either the exact same, or better, than original rubber your shoes came with. Basics still apply, harder rubber will edge better, softer compounds smear, so it's often impossible to compare anyway, because a shoes Size at street shoe for really comfy shoes or your first pair. Features, last type, and intended use all need consideration during this important decision. A climbing shoe is a specialized type of footwear designed for rock climbing. The La Sportiva Skwama vs Solution, who is the winner? Mar 17, 2025 · Read our guide to find the top budget-friendly rock climbing shoes that provide good comfort and support without breaking the bank. We really appreciated the sensitivity and softness of the Chimera, as the shape and thinness of the rubber allowed us to wrap our feet around holds like an Discover Vibram shoes with XS Grip 2 sole, perfect for activities such as trekking thanks to their flexibility, durability and grip. Stored in an oven at the correct temperature, wiped down with alcohol by a lackey before the climber starts. Mar 23, 2023 · The shoes don’t make the climber. Picking the best approach shoe for you can Nov 17, 2023 · The shoe that's best for you depends on your body type, climbing style, the type of rock you climb on, and how much you want to spend. This helps the shoe last longer by preventing wear and tear from rocks and other debris. Climbers often choose shoes based on the type of Both your shoes are pretty sporty — appropriate for indoor climbing and similar terrain, with lots of overhangs and shorter routes. It has a flatter profile that suits slab and crack climbing as well as vertical and overhanging routes. Apr 11, 2017 · At a minimum, climbing-shoe soles contain fillers, like carbon and clay, and the rubber itself is not vulcanized as much as other rubbers. Durable rubber compounds maintain their grip and performance over time, reducing the frequency of resoling and saving you money in the long run. Size 1 down or 2 euro down from street shoe for performance fit. Nov 14, 2024 · We tested and reviewed the best women's climbing shoes of 2025, including picks from La Sportiva, SCARPA, and more. Click below to learn more about each rubber compound. Include visual indicators pointing out key signs to look for when determining if shoes need resoling. We’ll also take a look at the common brands as well as clear up some misconceptions. Different climbing shoe brands utilize various rubber compounds with distinct characteristics, such as stickiness, durability, and sensitivity, catering to different climbing styles and preferences. The Futura combines comfort, foot, and no edge technology sensitivity with the ability to be a high performer in indoor and outdoor settings. No-Edge climbing shoe technology brings the foot closer to the rock. The Boreal Dharma does not disappoint. Chains, Coils, and Studs Chain-, coil-, and stud-based traction devices represent the minimalist approach to winter traction. These devices typically consist of small metal coils or studs affixed to a rubber or elastomer harness that slips over the shoe, or chain links We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. We will outline basic information about the history of climbing shoes, their most famous manufacturers, and at the same time we will present the characteristics and specifics of modern rubber soles on climbing shoes. Basics still apply, harder rubber will edge better, softer compounds smear, so it's often impossible to compare anyway, because a shoes Has anyone here ever had a resole done with different rubber than the manufacturer? I'd like to add, I am also hoping to resole a pair of Mad Rock Sharks which use R2 rand rubber. In this head-to-head, I will pit two of their most popular models against one another. Up to you and try what fits you best on different kind of walls. May 16, 2025 · In reply to Aled Williams: The differences is rubber will vary on temperature etc and unless using them right on the limits of coefficient of friction, with all other factors being equal mortals and even climbing gods often won't notice a difference. Despite La Sportiva’s S Heel, a rubber strip that aims to give the heel cup greater structural integrity The UP-Lace is the stiffest shoe in our line for the ultimate in precision footwork and edging capability. Nov 10, 2023 · The Evolv climbing shoe range is nothing short of mind-boggling. So which rubber is best? Well… all of them, but for different situations. Ow. The regular Solutions are good if you're trying to do outdoor climbing. Climbing approaches vary in distance and difficulty. Discover the best climbing shoe rubber designed for optimal performance on the rock face. But honestly, for 90% of climbing, the best shoe is the one you like. I view the Finale as their second tier just above Nov 11, 2023 · Shoe Materials Let’s start this head-to-head comparison by looking at the materials both companies use to make their climbing shoes. Evolv climbing shoes began crushing in 2003 and since then, this American shoe manufacturer has built a line-up of award-winning shoes with a world-class athlete team to suit. A good climber can send a stout 5. The solution is still my favorite sport climbing shoe that I have tried, precise and makes me feel confident on even the smallest feet. Before choosing a rubber, we […] Jan 11, 2022 · Discover the best climbing shoes in 2025 with our analysis to pick the most suitable model. Temperature differences on a given day are much bigger than between-rubber differences. Here’s what you need to know about Vibram climbing shoes. May 11, 2021 · Functionality Designed with all-round performance in mind, the Flagship is focussed on the top end of bouldering and sport, both for indoors and out. Oct 15, 2024 · Choosing the right climbing shoes can significantly impact your performance and comfort, regardless of whether you're tackling boulders or scaling multi-pitch routes. A high performance range of climbing shoes built on an aggressively curved last, making them perfect for overhanging routes, without sacrificing any efficiency on tiny edges or friction holds. Climbing shoe rubber is the single most important part of the shoe. Feb 22, 2020 · A complete guide to how to choose climbing shoes, designed to help you understand all of the jargon and find the perfect fit rock climbing shoes. Given the unique nature of comp climbing, and comp style climbing, it's necessary to mention that this is another distinct specialism, with rubber absolutley everywhere so that even the most marginal of marginal gains can be gained (say that When climbing vertically, a neutral and stiff shoe will give you the most support on those small edges. [2] Dec 7, 2022 · The Tenaya Indalo offers high performance and versatility in an incredibly comfortable, low-volume package. Oct 23, 2019 · See our in-depth review of the Scarpa Maestro Mid Eco climbing shoe, including details on the Maestro's performance, shape, durability, fit, and more. Also surprisingly durable for a high performance shoe, lasted 8 months before I resoled them could have probably pushed it another month or 2. awvs tmcujkn agje liio srboi zpouu cgbgtur sdk clikjt ijld