Anatomy of A Rock Climbing Shoe

Since I've been regularly rock climbing, I decided it was time to invest in some gear. I headed to REI to try on some shoes but they didn't have a huge selection in the store. The ones I tried on were tight and uncomfortable except for the La Sportiva Mythos, which could be mine for $130 dollars but I wasn't expecting to drop that much on shoes.

I headed online but didn't want to order from anyone who didn't have a friendly return policy especially since all of the shoes that I tried on in the store felt so different.

There are many varying opinions about what to look for in rock climbing shoes depending on your skill level etc.

Rock Climbing Shoes Review

Best Rock Climbing Shoes For Beginners

Over at Vegan Fitness, there's a discussion regarding the best shoes for vegans which include the Evolv and 5.10 brands.

This diagram that I found at Cheap Rock Climbing Shoes was cool. All I know is that I don't ever want a tight toe box.



I decided to go with La Sportiva since I found them comfortable and, yes, comfort is everything to me.

I first settled on The Mojo:



Then, I decided that a slip-on shoe would be better. Check out the curve on this shoe.

I'm hoping that the shape will allow the shoes to mold beautifully to those tiny holds.

Now that I have my La Sportiva Katanas, this article on rock shoe care will also be helpful.

I've Been An Angel All Year...

How cute. Most of my fantasy items are fitness-related. I went over to Wishpot and made up a list just for fun. While I need another gym bag, I don't necessarily need the yoga bag but there are so many items to pick from on Wishpot that I didn't have the stamina to look through all the bags or harnesses et al.

Agoy Micro Fiber Day Gym Bag Yoga Bag



Priority: I wouldn't mind having it


Apple iPod touch 16 GB (2nd Generation) MP3 Player




Priority: I want it



Finis Swimp3


Priority: I want it


JiIlian Michaels - 30 Day Shred




Priority: I wouldn't mind having it


La Sportiva Katana - Women's


Priority: I neeeed it!



Mad Rock - Venus Women's Harness



Priority: Thinking about it



Nike Zoom Sister One+ (Black/White-Anthracite-Vivid Pink) Women's Cross Trainer



Priority: I wouldn't mind having it



Nintendo Wii Fit - Balance Board + Game Console



Priority: I want it


Raleigh Route 4.0, Hybrid



Priority: I really really want it


The Step Home Trainer: Bench Exercise System



Priority: I want it