Evolv Pontas
Designed specifically for intense climbing on minimalistic features, Evolv's Pontas climbing shoe ($115 as of 2010) is a favorite of pro climber Chris Sharma. With a design that focuses power toward the toe and TRAX XT-5 high-friction rubber to hold edges with precision, the Pontas is made to stick to features that other shoes can't. Soft, cotton lining for comfort and a nonstretching, synthetic upper for consistent performance round out the Pontas as one of the best bouldering shoes available.
Mad Rock Demon
Mad Rock's Demon climbing shoe ($109.95 as of 2010) is an aggressively built shoe made for aggressive climbers. The downturned toe design sacrifices comfort for performance as it drives power to the climber's toe for better edging and increased friction against the climbing surface, whereas the rubber-reinforced heel and toe allows for more effective heel- and toe-hooking. Details like a slightly malleable upper that molds to feet for a glove-like fit and a help-lines upper to reduce odor make climbing with the Demon a surprisingly divine experience.
La Sportiva Solution
Due to their difficulty and puzzle-like series of movements, bouldering routes are generally referred to as "problems," and, for these problems, La Sportiva has designed the Solution ($155 as of 2010). The Solution features a sticky Vibram XS rubber outsole and an aggressively downturned design for excellent edging and smearing on the smallest rock features. The Lock Harness System ensures a nonslipping fit, and the Fast Lacing system gets you up and climbing in no time.
Article Written By Billy Brown
Billy Brown is an outdoor sports writer living in Northern California.
An avid rock climber and trail runner, he's been writing about outdoor activities, fitness and gear since 2005. He regularly contributes to "The Record Searchlight," uncooped.com, and Trails.com, as well as other print and online publications. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Simpson University and is a NASM-certified personal trainer.
