Black Diamond Aspect Climbing Shoe

We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Black Diamond Aspect Climbing Shoe and summarize the results below:

Universal Ranking

PeakScore: 76 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.3 stars 
Expert Rating: 2.6 stars

Number of Ratings Reviewed: 91

Pros & Cons

Reasons to buy:

User Reviews

  • More comfortable than BD’s other model, Momentum.
  • The laces give a secure and snug fit.
  • Provides stability.
  • A good choice for an intermediate shoe that isn’t too aggressive for novice levels.
  • The sides of the shoes provide ample protection.
  • The stiff sole allows for a supportive fit, and balances well with a softer-suede upper portion.
  • The knit tongue adds breathability.
  • The rubber provides adequate grip on slabs.
  • Stiff-enough shoe for overhanging.
  • The laces being covered at the front aids in the ease of crack-climbing.

Expert Reviews

  • The flat design provides a comfortable fit.
  • Potentially more durable due to being a completely molded shoe.
  • The leather is comprised of Engineered Knit Technology, making the shoe more breathable.
  • Doesn’t stretch and lose shape over months of use.
  • Heel tension strap provides adjustability.
  • Made in women’s shapes and sizing.
  • Fits high-volume feet very well.
  • Features a 4.3mm NEO Friction Edge sole for ample rubber stickiness and support.
  • Versatile and reliable.
  • The laces remain tight and don’t need to be re-tied.

Reasons NOT to buy:

User Reviews

  • Might not be aggressive enough for more advanced climbers.
  • Reports of running small.
  • Less sensitive for some types of climbing.
  • The heel cup may be too roomy for low-volume feet.

Expert Reviews

  • Can feel very stiff during lateral movement.
  • The heel tension strap doesn’t work as aggressively as some.
  • The laces don’t reach the tongue, causing the fit to be less flexible in the frontal area of the shoe.
  • In terms of edging, the shoe may roll more than you want.
  • The stickiness of the rubber may make this shoe not optimal for smearing.
  • May not suit low-volume feet due to the prevalence of pinch spots.
  • Takes a longer break-in time for adequate smearing.
  • Doesn’t seem to be the best option for technical slabs.
  • Too soft for hard-edging problems.

Summary:

The Black Diamond Aspect Climbing Shoe is a good option for beginning to intermediate climbers who want a versatile, comfortable, and breathable option for a variety of climbing routes. The lack of aggressive shape and tendency to roll makes this shoe not the best choice for advanced climbers looking to do mainly smearing, edging, or technical slabs.

Multimedia:

Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web, including here: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.