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Absolute beginner climber question

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  • 29-07-2011 6:23pm
    #1
    ugliest
    Closed Accounts Posts: 90 ✭✭


    I'm going to try my hand at climbing soon, I was told I'm grand to wear normal trainers to give it a shot in, but I have at home some surf shoes. Anyone reckon they'd be better for it? They stay on my feet really well and have a lot of grip on them. Or would I be better off in the regular runners?

    Again, complete beginner so won't be rushing out to buy gear until I know if it's for me. :)

    Thanks!
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    #2
    Spelean
    Registered Users Posts: 21 ✭Spelean


    Hi ugliest,

    You'll soon find the limits of your trainers if you try bouldering on a low wall. By trying out your different foot positions on small edges, you'll find your foot rolling around inside the shoe.
    A rock shoe is a narrower fit with a really soft midsole, this'll mould to your foot and allow you to use sticky rubber and the strength of your foot.

    The upper on a pair of trainers isn't tough enough to hold out to the rubbing you'll give it off the rock, so your toes can take a bashing too.

    All up, yeah, you can do it... but you won't get very far, even on 'easier' climbs. The outlay for a pair of shoes is worth it, IMO. They give you more control, and they're a lot safer. Runners on smooth damp rock can feel pretty scary.

    Hope this helps, Spelean.


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