Posts

How can you prolong the life of your shoes?

  How can you prolong the life of your shoes? Graham explains that how you climb will impact the shelf life of your shoes, while making sure they fit properly matters for more than just your comfort. “Be positive with your feet and trust the rubber. Scrambling will wear the toe rubber down a lot faster than precision foot placements," says Graham, adding "Over tight shoes make the user focus wear in one area." To make sure your shoes last as long as possible, you might also want to try a trick that many runners use and rotate through a couple of pairs. This is especially helpful if you climb often and on different types of rock. "Having two pairs is also a good idea – one soft, one stiffer for different rock and hold types." Finally, when you get home from the crag, how you store your shoes will determine whether they degrade quickly or stay reasonably fresh. "When not climbing, ensure the climbing shoes are stored out of your climbing bag and in a well ve...

How long do climbing shoes last?

  How long do climbing shoes last? “It all depends on how often you climb, the location and how controlled you are with your feet,” explains Graham. Naturally, there are lots of factors that will influence the life span of your climbing shoes. Climbing outdoors on abrasive rock will wear out your shoes faster than on a smooth indoor climbing wall. Using tiny foot holds and smearing on more advanced roots will put more pressure on the toe box of your shoes and wear them out faster , while mellower routes with big ledges and jugs will allow you to rely more on the soles of your feet and increase the lifespan of your shoes. Further, picking out the right type of climbing shoes for your climbing style will help prolong their life, since neutral shoes won’t hold up so well against aggressive climbing. “I would say, for mid to upper grade climbers, climbing 2+ times per week, around 4 - 6 months. Those who just dabble could potentially go for 12+ months, although keen beginner’s with les...