If the shoe fits, wear it!

Scarpa Dharma Pro Shoe - Men's

Scarpa Dharma Pro Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 4 September 30, 2011

I like my 2nd pair of Scarpas because they fit my foot as do most La Sportivas. They don't fit every foot shape. I have had the same troubles with TNF shoes and 5.10's. You just have to try 'em. Either the last is good or not for your foot shape.

To say they suck for you is fair, but in my opinion now that they have a bit of dotty rubber on the forefoot they really work well for me. Climb well hike well and support a heavy alpine pack.

Nailed It? 2 Yes

1 Comment

Permanently Out of Stock -- View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

funny you should ask....

Petzl Elios Climbing Helmet - 2011

Petzl Elios Climbing Helmet - 2011

Rating for this product: 5 May 30, 2009

Very nice helmet I bought it for my nephew who I've been mentoring into a climbing bum. He asked me why I never wear my Helmet, I didn't have a decent answer. I just said that I do in alpine environs but not at the crags. (translation, I'm too cool of an old tradster who started with a swami and hexes and I'm willing to preserve this image at my own peril) So I bought him this one but accidently bought the small and evidently wasn't clear in my return/exchange inst. as I just got a refund when I wanted a large instead. Any-who it seemed like a well made unit. I like my ecrin fine but if I ever replace it I'll consider an elios. As for my nephew I'm trying to set a good example and wear a lid but it feels wrong. He bought an elios from another supplier (local big box hell) and is happy with the feel and fit. The End

Nailed It? 0 Yes

0 Comments

Permanently Out of Stock -- View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

i like

La Sportiva Exum Pro Approach Shoe - Men's

La Sportiva Exum Pro Approach Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 5 March 24, 2009

They fit me what else can I say. The rubber is sticky like I like it, but they will wear out faster as a result. A trade off I'm willing to make. I try not to wear them about town so as to get some longevity out of the soles. If Brooks or Solomon fit you this might be a good bet for you.

Well it is it's 7 months later and they are beat but still alive. i thought they would be done by now but they held up well for a light weight. Worthy of a resole?...No too packed out but I see them going to spring. All translated: Very well built for a light weight. Floppy like a runner but with an insole they support enough. If you want re-sole-able beef go elsewhere.

Nailed It? 2 Yes

0 Comments

Permanently Out of Stock -- View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product

Somewhat Narrow

The North Face Smedge Approach Shoe - Men's

The North Face Smedge Approach Shoe - Men's

Rating for this product: 3 March 9, 2009

These shoes are reminiscent of the Montrail CTC. The fit is narrow and long in the toe for the size. They would've been too tight if I'd of down sized for the toe length. If you have a narrow foot this might not be a bad choice.
The rubber is not very sticky! I like sticky rubber when I'm talus hopping or climbing or doing techy approachs. As such they will be long wearing with this harder rubber. They will make good hikers more than good scramblers above 3rd or 4th class. The "smedge" platform is anvil like in its profile making it jut out too far for it to be a decent edger and the rubber is too hard to make it smear well in compensation for it's edging shortfall.
Again if it fits your narrow foot and you don't need it to climb 4th or 5th class. It looks like a well built shoe with climbing shoe styling and hiking shoe manners. I've returned them for some La Sportiva EXUM pro's which I'v had luck with before in a similarly lasted shoe for my Med wide foot.

Nailed It? 2 Yes

1 Comment

Permanently Out of Stock -- View Product Details >
Read all Reviews about this product