Father’s Day is just around the corner, and if you have a dad who loves rock climbing, the perfect gift might be a new pair of rock shoes. Choosing the right rock shoes can significantly enhance his climbing experience by providing comfort, performance, and durability. Here’s how to make sure you get the perfect pair for your climbing-enthusiast dad.
Understanding Foot Shape
Before you start shopping for rock shoes, it’s crucial to understand your dad’s foot shape. Different brands cater to different foot shapes, with some fitting wider feet better than others. A professional assessment by a knowledgeable salesperson can be invaluable. They can recommend brands and models that match your dad’s specific foot characteristics, ensuring a better fit and performance.
Avoiding the Painful Mistake
One common mistake is buying the tightest shoes possible. While snug shoes are important, they shouldn’t be painful. For dads new to climbing, comfortable entry-level shoes are ideal as they help build foot flexibility and strength without causing undue discomfort. Performance shoes are better suited for more advanced climbs (5.10 and above).
Key Fit Principles
+ Big Toe Position: The big toe should reach the end of the toe box but not curl under. There should be no extra space or sagging.
+ Comfort Over Time: Shoes will stretch slightly with use. Size them snugly but not so tight that they cause pain.
+ Types of Shoes: Entry-level shoes offer comfort, while advanced shoes provide performance benefits like better edging or smearing.
Types of Rock Shoes
Entry-Level Shoes
For beginners, entry-level shoes offer more comfort and are designed to help build foot strength and flexibility.
Performance Shoes
These shoes are designed for advanced climbing, with features that provide better performance on more difficult climbs.
Banana Shoes
These have an extremely asymmetrical and downturned shape, ideal for steep climbing over 20 degrees.
Breaking in Rock Shoes
Breaking in rock shoes gradually can help prevent discomfort and extend their lifespan.
+ Short Sessions: Wear them at home in short sessions while watching TV.
+ Sand Rough Soles: This can help create extra friction.
+ Test Performance: Before leading with new shoes, take them bouldering or top roping to test their performance.
Building a Quiver of Shoes
Having multiple pairs for different climbing purposes can greatly enhance the climbing experience. Here are some types you might consider:
+ Edging Shoes: For precise foot placements on small footholds.
+ Soft Shoes for Bouldering: Provide sensitivity for dynamic movements.
+ Tightly-Sized Redpoint Shoes: For pushing limits on tough climbs.
+ Slippers for Training: Comfortable and easy to put on and take off.
Factors to Consider When Buying Rock Shoes
Comfort
Shoes should fit tightly but not uncomfortably. Most will stretch over time, so it’s best to size them slightly small initially.
Performance
Different shoes perform better in different conditions. Consider what type of climbing your dad will be doing most often.
Foot Shape
Some brands cater to wider or narrower feet. It’s essential to find a brand that matches your dad’s foot shape.
Shoe Shape
Flat shoes are generally more comfortable for longer wear, while downturned shoes are better for steep climbs.
Stiffness
Stiff shoes provide better support for edging, while softer shoes are better for smearing and dynamic movements.
Closure Systems
Velcro, laces, and slip-ons each have their advantages. Choose based on your dad’s preference and the type of climbing he’ll be doing.
Price Range
Rock shoes come in various price ranges. While higher-end shoes offer advanced features, plenty of budget-friendly options perform well for beginners.
Recommended Bouldering Shoes for Dad
Here are 15 highly recommended bouldering shoes, each with its origin, materials, benefits, and price range. These selections cover a range of preferences and climbing styles, making them perfect Father’s Day gifts.
1. Five Ten Hiangle
+ Origin: USA
+ Materials: Synthetic upper, Stealth C4 rubber
+ Benefits: Downturned but balanced, soft and sticky rubber
+ Price Range: $150
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2. La Sportiva Mantra
+ Origin: Italy
+ Materials: Microfiber, Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber
+ Benefits: Extremely soft and sensitive, great for volumes, friction slabs, steeps
+ Price Range: $169
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3. La Sportiva Vegan Skwama
+ Origin: Italy
+ Materials: Vegan microfiber, Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber
+ Benefits: High-performance slipper, good for everything from yoga to steep climbs
+ Price Range: $199
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4. La Sportiva Solution Comp
+ Origin: Italy
+ Materials: Leather and microfiber, Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber
+ Benefits: Softer and more sensitive than the original, versatile
+ Price Range: $185
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5. Mad Rock Drone Comp
+ Origin: USA
+ Materials: Synthetic upper, Science Friction 3.0 rubber
+ Benefits: Aggressive and asymmetrical, great for steep walls and smearing
+ Price Range: $149
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6. Scarpa Drago
+ Origin: Italy
+ Materials: Microsuede, Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber
+ Benefits: Sensitive yet precise, performs well everywhere
+ Price Range: $209
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7. Scarpa Furia S
+ Origin: Italy
+ Materials: Microfiber and leather, Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber
+ Benefits: Ultra soft, sensitive but supportive
+ Price Range: $209
Related: Father's Day Sporting Goods Gift Guide: Find the Perfect Gear for Active Dads
8. Scarpa Instinct S
+ Origin: Italy
+ Materials: Microsuede, Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber
+ Benefits: Versatile slipper, good for vertical to overhanging climbs
+ Price Range: $199
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9. Tenaya Mastia
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+ Origin: Spain
+ Materials: Microfiber, Vibram XS Grip rubber
+ Benefits: Soft and comfortable, support and sensitivity for all terrain
+ Price Range: $199.95
10. Butora Acro
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+ Origin: South Korea
+ Materials: Leather and synthetic, Neo Fuse rubber
+ Benefits: Extremely aggressive and precise, great for steep problems
+ Price Range: $129
11. Five Ten Crawe
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+ Origin: USA
+ Materials: Synthetic upper, Stealth HF rubber
+ Benefits: Moderately downturned all-rounder, good for various climbing styles
+ Price Range: $190
12. Ocun Fury
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+ Origin: Czech Republic
+ Materials: Microfiber, CAT rubber
+ Benefits: Aggressive and asymmetrical, versatile for indoor and outdoor
+ Price Range: $179.95
13. Red Chili Voltage 2
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+ Origin: Germany
+ Materials: Synthetic, RX-2 rubber
+ Benefits: Comfortable and aggressive, perfect for heel-hooking on steep walls
+ Price Range: $160
14. Scarpa Booster
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+ Origin: Italy
+ Materials: Microsuede, Vibram XS Edge rubber
+ Benefits: Precise edging on sport climbs and bouldering at any angle
+ Price Range: $209
15. Scarpa Instinct VS
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+ Origin: Italy
+ Materials: Microsuede, Vibram XS Edge rubber
+ Benefits: Versatile, master of all angles, proven performance over 15 years
+ Price Range: $199
The Bottom Lines
Choosing the right rock shoes is essential for maximizing your dad’s climbing potential while ensuring comfort and durability.
You can find the perfect pair by understanding his foot shape, avoiding overly tight shoes, and selecting the right type for his climbing needs.
Gradually breaking in the shoes and building a quiver for different purposes can further enhance his climbing experience.
With these tips and recommended models, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and invest in shoes that truly fit his climbing style and goals.
This Father’s Day, give your dad the gift of confidence and performance with the perfect pair of rock shoes.