HOW TO CHOOSE CLIMBING SHOES:
THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO CLIMBING SHOES SOLD AT TUFAS
| Sizing | Climbing shoes should be snug but not too tight – soccer cleats.
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Most brands will sell a high-volume and low-volume version of the same shoe – sizing varies! | Be flexible! Sizes are unique to brands – and no two feet are alike! Try as many shoes as possible
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| Shape
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Aggressive, Moderate, or Neutral: how downturned a shoe is dictates how effective it is on the overhang. | Aggressive shoes are perfect for boulderers who can take them off between attempts, but might be way too painful for day-long multi-pitch route, or long stretches at the gym | Slab, Vert, Overhang:
A full, stiff midsole thrives on slab. A more flexible midsole, or a total lack of one, might be the better option for steep overhangs. |
| Features | Slippers for easy on/off.
Velcro for easy on/off and security. Laces for max security. |
Unlined leather – full size stretch
Lined leather – half size
Synthetic – no stretch
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Downturn: how much weight the shape of the shoe puts on the big toe.
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| Tips | Toes touching the front of the shoe – no deadspace! No room to wiggle!
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Try them without socks for a closer fit! It doesn’t hurt to have a few diverse pairs for diverse styles of climbing. | Make sure your heel fits comfortably – no pinching the Achilles tendon! |
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Evolv
Defy $89 |
Velcro
Neutral High-Volume Synthetic |
Good For:
Beginners, All-rounder.
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Evolv
Elektra $89 |
Velcro
Neutral Low-Volume Synthetic |
Good For:
Beginners, All-rounder.
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Evolv
Shaman $165 |
Velcro
Aggressive High-Volume Synthetic |
Good For:
Intermediate, Advanced, Bouldering.
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La Sportiva
Tarantula $89 |
Velcro
Neutral High-Volume Unlined Leather
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Good For:
Beginners, All-rounder. |
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La Sportiva
Finale $110 |
Lace
Moderate Low-Volume Unlined Leather |
Good For:
Beginners, All-rounder. |
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La Sportiva
Kataki $170 |
Lace
Aggressive Low-Volume Lined Leather |
Good For:
Intermediate, Advanced, Bouldering.
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La Sportiva
Skwama $175 |
Velcro
Aggressive High-Volume Synthetic |
Good For:
Intermediate, Advanced, Bouldering. |