The Black Diamond Zone Climbing Shoe is a breathable, comfortable, and adjustable shoe that works well for bouldering and sport routes during all-day use. Even though there have been some reports of a lack of durability and correct sizing when purchasing, this shoe could work well for climbers who try on before buying and know they want a stylish option that contains medium stiffness and flexibility for a variety of routes.
The Tenaya Mundaka Climbing Shoe is a comfortable, adjustable, and functional shoe that works especially well on indoor climbing routes and bouldering. For climbers who almost solely climb inside, this shoe balances sensitivity, stiffness, and performance capabilities that can make this a one-stop-shop for what you need.
The La Sportiva Otaki Climbing Shoe for women is a versatile, precise, and high-quality shoe that works well on a variety of climbing routes. Despite not being the best shape for those with wide feet and taking some time to break-in, this shoe is a comfortable option that blends stiffness and flexibility.
The Five Ten Hiangle Climbing Shoe for women is a versatile, grippy, and functional shoe that works well during different types of climbs. Despite some issues with the shoe lacking durability, sizing issues, and not being the stiffest option on the market, this shoe is a good choice for climbers who want a combination of comfort and performance in one, well-priced shoe.
The Five Ten Team XVI Climbing Shoe is a sticky, durable, and comfortable option that is well-suited for tough terrain, hooking, and long routes. Despite being expensive and lacking the stiffness needed for vertical edging, the shoes feature extremely-sticky outer rubber that can hold onto any terrain, making these shoes a good choice for sport and bouldering routes.
The Evolv X1 Climbing Shoe is a versatile, comfortable, and moderately-aggressive shoe that works well for steep terrain, indoor routes, and slabs. The ability of this shoe to work on various routes makes it a great option for advanced climbers who frequently change between indoor and outdoor climbing. Despite some issues with the heel and the sizing running small, this is well-suited for advanced climbers in need of an all-around shoe.
The Scarpa Booster S Climbing Shoe delivers a great balance between sensitivity and performance. The uniquely flexible midsole makes the shoe highly sensitive, while the toe box design drives power into the big toe and allows for solid stability on the tiniest of holds. The solid heel cup allows for great heel hooking, and although the design of the shoe encourages more of a digging style, once you get used to it, the edging capabilities are endless. This shoe is highly effective for aggressive bouldering or overhung sport climbs but isn’t built for slabs or vertical walls, and the one downside of its light and nimble construction is a compromise on durability. Overall, a fantastic shoe for the price.
The Mad Rock Lyra Climbing Shoe for women is a comfortable, easily adjustable, and precise option for climbers who favor comfort and a snug fit. This shoe does not crush very small edges, which is mostly a concern just for elite-level climbers. Some durability issues with the rubber should also be considered, but for those who want a supportive and cushioned option, this is a great choice.
The La Sportiva Solution Climbing Shoe is an all-around stable and sensitive shoe that combines a downturned shape and proficient power-transfer to provide a shoe that can perform on various types of climbing routes. Despite having a longer break-in time and some possible durability issues with the strap, for those climbers who want a precise, aggressive, and snug shoe, this is a great option.
The La Sportiva Kataki Climbing Shoe for women is a versatile, adjustable, and comfortable option, that performs well on various types of climbing routes. The ability to climb edges, micro-holds, cracks, and technical routes makes this an all-around choice for any level of climber. Overall, the customized lacing system, asymmetrical shape, and comfortable material allow this to be a great all-around choice for numerous climbers.