My favorite beginner's rock climbing shoe
My return to the sport
One of the best changes I saw was the emergence of a shoe company called Mad Rock. I checked them out and learned that:
1) Their shoes have some of the stickiest rubber in the industry.
2) Their shoes are EXTREMELY cost-effective.
Both appeal to me, especially the prices of their shoes since I am recently married and my wife doesn't see spending $150 on shoes as a good investment.
Enough about me; Here's the shoe
The Flash is the most cost-effective model, and a very comfortable slipper.
Here are some highlights of the shoe:
The heel has rubber ridges for better holds on heel hooks.
The velcro straps make for very easy in and out.
The fit is true to size, no need to guess if I should go smaller or larger. They are snug, but not uncomfortably so, and my feet stay in on even the most difficult maneuvers.
Flash on Amazon
Mad Rock Flash Climbing Shoe - Men's
Amazon Price: (as of 07/05/2009)
Amazon has a very competitive price (around $70), fast delivery, wide range of sizes, and secure payment.
In conclusion
Affordable performers
So, if you want an affordable shoe with crazy sticky rubber and all the comfort of a slipper with the performance of a technical shoe, the Flash is for you!
Or troll eBay for deals
Sometimes people sell Flashes on eBay at killer discounts. I would suggest NOT buying used rock climbing shoes.
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand by
Have you tried the Flashes?
newtondominey wrote...
i agree that madrock makes a good entry level shoe, but i've never been impressed with the overall durability or rubber quality. i prefer vibram xs grip rubber (used by la sportiva and scarpa among others) for its stickiness and feel, and think that, by spending a few extra dollars on a pair of shoes, you can have something that lasts longer and gives you a more precise feel on the rock.
Posted May 30, 2009
