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Why are climbing shoes so tight? Discover the amazing adaptive technology of climbing shoes!
Climbing shoes are specially made shoes designed specifically for rock climbing. They fit snugly on the foot and often feature an asymmetrical push-down design and a sticky rubber sole. This design not only helps climbers gain a better grip, but also allows for more precise movements when climbing. Different types of climbing shoes are suitable for different skill levels and climbing routes. So why do climbing shoes fit so tightly?
Climbing shoes are designed to allow climbers to apply force on a small support surface, improving their climbing skills.
The evolution of design
Modern climbing shoes are carefully crafted from multiple pieces of material that mold to the shape of the wearer's foot. Compared to traditional hard climbing shoes, modern models are generally softer and have flexible midsoles. A typical climbing shoe consists of nine parts: heel loop, liner, tongue tag, tongue, closure system, upper, toe box, rubber ring, and heel.
Material selection
Traditionally, leather is used for the uppers of rock climbing shoes, but other materials such as fabric and synthetic leather are also commonly used. Climbing rubbers used for soles are developed specifically for climbing and usually come in rubber compounds with varying degrees of stickiness, durability, and softness. When choosing shoes, climbers often face a trade-off between the stickiness of the rubber and durability, as stickier shoes will perform better but will also wear out faster.
Diversity of closed systems
Modern climbing shoes have a variety of closure systems, allowing the shoe to be adjusted to the desired tightness:
Lace-up shoes
Lace-up shoes utilize traditional shoelaces that are adjusted to achieve optimal tightness. This type of shoe is the most flexible and is suitable for climbers who need to adjust the tightness of the shoe during climbing.
Velcro shoes
Velcro shoes usually come with one or two Velcro straps to quickly adjust the tightness of the shoe, especially suitable for indoor rock climbing environments.
Hanging shoes
Hanging shoes do not have an adjustable closure system and must be sized appropriately at the time of purchase. This type of shoe usually provides greater climbing sensitivity.
Types of climbing shoes
Modern climbing shoes can be broken down into three different silhouettes based on their shape: neutral, moderate, and aggressive, each with its own unique characteristics and purpose.
Neutral shoes
The outsole of neutral shoes is relatively flat, which is suitable for beginners and long-distance climbing, and its comfort is guaranteed.
Moderate shoes
Compared to neutral shoes, moderate shoes are slightly curved downwards and are suitable for a variety of climbing routes.
Attack shoes
Offensive shoes have a strong downward pressure design. Although they may be more uncomfortable to wear, their performance is unparalleled.
The impact of climbing technique
The close-fitting design of climbing shoes facilitates climbers' techniques on small support surfaces. These shoes allow for precise edge stomping, flat walking, and even techniques like toe hooks and heel hooks while climbing.
Health considerations
However, climbing shoes that are too tight may cause discomfort and even affect the health of your feet in the long term. These include problems such as nerve compression, deformation and long-term wear and tear of the foot.
While a snug-fitting shoe can improve climbing performance, should climbers strike a balance between comfort and function?
Faced with the potential health risks of climbing shoes, climbers who are stuck between functionality and comfort should perhaps think about when to compromise their comfort and climbing needs.
