How Tight Is To Tight?

Climbing shoes are supposed to be a tight fit, but there is a fine line between comfort and pain. Climbing shoes are supposed to be comfortable enough to wear for about 20-25 minutes for most people. However, if you are not comfortable in your shoes, you wont have as much fun.

When climbing, your fingers are curled on the actual holds so you can pull effectively. Climbing shoes are designed the same way- to curl your toes together to help you pull with them on the actual holds.  No matter what, make sure your feet and toes are comfortable as you will have more fun.

Socks or no Socks?

This is personal preference. The reason NOT to wear socks is that socks will decrease the amount of sensitivity between your toes, and the holds. Sometimes, climbers will have the width of a nickel to stand on and wearing socks can limit the sensitivity to do so. However, most people new to climbing wont stand on holds this small, and wearing socks can make your first visits more enjoyable.

Velcro or Laces?

Personally, I prefer Velcro because it is faster to put on and take off, and the difference in performance to a lace up is negligible in my opinion. With that, I do have a pair of lace ups in my bag for the occasions I need that extra edge (pun intended) of sensitivity.

Madrock recently came out with a update of their Shark. This shoe is the BEST Madrock shoe I have worn. I have zero issues with heel hooks, toe hooks and bicycles. The heel design is so revolutionary that is allows climbers to heel hook on quarter inch edges, even on terrain as steep as a 45. I am the biggest fan of this design and would encourage any serious climber (of any ability level) to purchase this shoe.

The Sharks will be available at Focus later this month.