Bouldering Gear

New to bouldering? It’s super easy to get started. All you need are shoes, chalk and a chalk bag. Once you get better you’ll probably want to buy a crash pad (also called a bouldering mat).

You purchase all of these items at Volcanic Rock Gym. If you prefer to shop online, here’s a list of items I’d recommend taking a look at.

Shoes

I wear La Sportiva Pythons because they are soft and super comfortable.

(Links all go to Backcountry.com.)

La Sportiva Python Vibram XS Grip2 Climbing Shoe Gold, 43.5 La Sportiva Python
The La Sportiva Python Climbing Shoe with Vibram XS Grip2 sole was engineered to excel in competitions, at the gym, or out on the crag. Sticky rubber over the toes and full rubber coverage on the outside of the heel enable the technical moves you need to make on your way to the top.

 

La Sportiva Testarossa Vibram XS Grip2 Climbing Shoe Red/Yellow, 37.0 La Sportiva Testarossa

Lace up the La Sportiva Testarossa Climbing Shoe before you push your limits on obscenely steep or overhanging sport routes. This highly curved shoe features bi-lateral stretch so you can twist and smear the Testarossa as necessary for the Vibram XS Grip to grab tiny cracks, pockets, and bumps. A 3D Hytel Anatomical insert under the toe provides comfort as you send the most technical pitch of your life, while the Testarossa’s synthetic linings wick moisture and prevent the upper from stretching and reducing the overall control. The tough leather and rubber rand enable heel-hooking and any number of inventive foothold methods to help you top out.

 

La Sportiva Miura VS Vibram XS Edge Climbing Shoe Yellow/Black, 39.5 La Sportiva Miura
Strap into the La Sportiva Miura VS Climbing Shoe and get the grippy footwork you need to finally beat your overhanging limestone nemesis. This highly curved shoeas Vibram XS Edge rubber sole toes, edges, and hooks with the best of them. The Slingshot rand and Powerhinge System ensure the shoe stretches for smears and cams without twisting or bending in the forefoot when you use rock pimples as footholds. While spotting your next moves below the crux, the Permanent Power Platform (P3) midsole comfortably keeps the Miura VSas shape, while the Dentex-lining ensures the leather upper stays true to its shape throughout the shoeas life.

 

La Sportiva Solution Vibram XS Grip2 Climbing Shoe White, 39.0 La Sportiva Solution
La Sportiva created the uniquely styled Solution Climbing Shoe to give you the advantage on cutting-edge boulder problems. The highly down-turned toe lets you edge on the smallest crystal, and a rubber toe cap hooks solidly for difficult bicycle moves. La Sportiva used the single-pull Fast Closure System lacing to get you in and out of the Solution quickly, so you can attack your project when inspiration strikes. To top it off, a Permanent Power Platform and molded 3-D heel cup help the La Sportiva Solution Climbing Shoe hold its down-turned shape and let you take full advantage of the ultra-sticky Vibram XS Grip2 rubber.

 

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