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General Climbing Discussion

Topic Date User

How do you like your shoes? 7-Jun-2005 At 4:34:44 PM MrKyle

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> Do you think your climbed better because of the actual fit or because you were comfortable Kyle?

Both. I argure that to climb well you have to be relaxed. A large part of that relaxation comes from your feet. If you can feel the rock with your feet, you trust them - you feel more confident, and you can relax.
If your toes are mashed into a shoe it is very hard to feel anything. Then you hang on tighter to compensate.

Also, a tight fit tend to get you standing higher on your toes. A more natural fit tends to allow your heels to drop - which is a much more relaxing stance.

These comments become less valid the steeper the route I suppose.

BTW Some brands, like 5.10 and La Sportiva, make womens versions of shoes. I think they may have narrower heels.