We’ve read the reviews across the web for the Black Diamond Shadow Climbing Shoe and summarize the results below:
Universal Ranking
PeakScore: 81 (out of 100)
User Rating: 4.1 stars 
Expert Rating: 4 stars
Number of Ratings Reviewed: 53
Pros & Cons
Reasons to buy:
User Reviews
- Very sticky rubber that grips to a variety of surfaces.
- Comfortable to wear for prolonged use.
- Fuse rubber holds to slippery and slick holds.
- Able to wear for an entire session without any reports of discomfort.
- The knitted upper provides some breathability to prevent overheating.
- Velcro strap aids in the customization and adjustment of fit.
- Able to edge well due to the sticky rubber.
- Sensitive and allows you to wrap your toes around the holds to provide a secure hold.
- Able to smear well due to the softer rubber.
Expert Reviews
- Lightweight material and feel.
- Gives a precise feel while wearing.
- Provides power and precision through the toes due to the bi-lateral tension rand.
- The microfiber upper combined with the molded-rubber allows for a precise grip, while maintaining a snug and form-fitting shape.
- Great fit and material for heel-hooks and toe-scumming.
- The aggressive and downturned shape allows for performance on more complicated climbing routes.
- Velcro strap aids in adjustability.
- The rubber around the heel doesn’t stretch out over time.
- 3D-printed and molded rubber and the Engineered Kit Technology uses wraps combined with printed rubber to provide optimal dexterity and flexibility.
- Great for using on steeper sport climbs and bouldering due to the shape and material of the shoe.
- Full rubber toe makes this shoe ideal for toe-hooking.
Reasons NOT to buy:
User Reviews
- Not as good at edging as aggressive models are due to the shape.
- These shoes are tedious to get on and off due to the snug and sock-like upper material.
- The downturn reportedly flattens out quicker than other models.
- Some reports of the rubber tension band tearing after use.
- Some reports of the heel fit getting too lose over time.
Expert Reviews
- Some reports of lack of sensitivity due to the downturned nature of the shoe.
- Some reports of slack occurring on the friction strips on the toe box over time.
- The shoe may be too soft and could roll during edging.
- Not as sensitive as some other options on the market.
Summary:
The Black Diamond Shadow Climbing Shoe is a lightweight, precise, and snug shoe that provides a balance between aggressive shape and flexibility, allowing for versatility to use on a variety of climbing routes. The ample rubber on the heel and the toe section allows for toe and heel-hooking, while the lightweight upper keeps the shoe breathable, and flexible enough to balance out the aggressive shape.
Multimedia:
Note: User and expert rankings were reviewed across the web. Some expert reviews include these: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.