Field Use
Whether you are climbing indoors, conquering V10 bouldering problems or scaling El Capitan, Mad Rock has a shoe to keep you stuck to the wall like Spiderman. Mad Rock's patented concave sole will help you grasp the rock while climbing overhangs and create a sharper edge for standing on small foot jibs and ledges. Being 20 feet off the ground at the crux of a bouldering problem can be unsettling. However, having the support of a solid shoe affords you the security to top out with confidence. Mad Rock is the only climbing shoe company that manufactures its own climbing rubber. Mad Rock professes its newest shoe, The Conflict, is the "most technologically advanced rock shoe on the market."
Pros and Cons
Mad Rock climbing shoes are very comfortable after the initial two-to-four-week break-in period. The quick and easy Velcro straps on many of the shoes make it easy to take them off while resting or belaying your partner. Mad Rock has a wide range of all-around shoes for climbing in multiple environments.
On some of the older Mad Rock shoes the Spiderman like traction began to soften after about six months often slipping in certain situations, particularly some smaller foot jibs at the indoor climbing gym. A few of Mad Rock's shoes lack camber or turn down in the toe and may not be as ideal for bouldering as some of its shoes with the concave sole. More of a laughing matter than a negative aspect with the Mad Rock Flash is that they die your feet orange. It washes off in the shower.
Bottom Line
Whether you are new to rock climbing and looking for a good introductory shoe or an experienced climber looking for a good all-around performer, Mad Rock has a shoe for you. The bang for the buck is at the top of it's class. Mad Rock has no reservations in making a technically advanced shoe at a price that won't have you tapping in to your home equity line of credit. Ranging in price from $39.95 to $109.95 and averaging around $80, Mad Rock is sure to have a shoe for every budget. Whether you're an experienced climber or trying the sport for the first time, there's probably a perfect Mad Rock shoe for you.
Article Written By Greg Branam
Greg Branam is from Ventura County, Calif. When he is not building bicycles at work, writing, reading, playing guitar, or attending and promoting local live music, you will find him outdoors. The majority of his adventures include cycling, mountain biking, trail running, hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, surfing or snowboarding.
