Boreal Climbing Shoes Review

Boreal Climbing Shoes Review
Boreal has long been one of the leaders in the rock shoe market. The Fire, launched in 1980, quickly became one of the most popular rock shoes in the world. Boreal currently makes 24 different models of rock shoes. Some, such as the Mutant and Crux, are tight fitting slippers with a velcro closure for easy on and off immediately after finishing a tough climbing problem. The Ninja goes even further, and is a pure slipper that must be fit as tightly as possible. The Zephyr is a low beginner cut shoe designed for all day routes. The Ace has been one of Boreal's most popular all-around performance oriented shoe, and the Ballet, long in production, is the only current Boreal boot with an over the ankle lace up upper. The Big Wall is closer in design to a hiking boot, but has a sticky rubber sole, and is perfect for extended multi-day outings on El Capitan. Boreal also makes special, insulated models with an integral gator for rock climbing in high altitude ranges, including the Ninja Invernal Guetre and the Fire Invernal Guetre.

Perks

Boreal climbing shoes have FS-Quattro rubber, a super sticky climbing shoe rubber in keeping with the Boreal history of developing fine climbing shoe rubber. This rubber is very abrasion resistant and offers a consistent level of performance in a wide variety of temperatures.

Boreal has traditionally used a wider last, making them good for climbers with medium to wide feet.

Sacrifices

Some of the Boreal models with a board last (instead of a slipper last) can be stiff out of the box and require a more extensive break-in period. Climbers with narrow feet may find the Boreal fit a little sloppy.

Bottom Line

Boreal offers the most comprehensive line of climbing shoes on the market, and whether your goal is a couple or recreational weekend climbs every year or the highest levels of sport climbing performance, Boreal rock climbing shoes can help you reach your goals.

Article Written By Candace Horgan

Candace Horgan has worked as a freelance journalist for more than 12 years. Her work has appeared in various print and online publications, including the "Denver Post" and "Mix." Horgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and history.

Write for Trails.com
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