La Sportiva - Tarantula - Climbing shoes

I already had a pair of these ones, loved them so much that bought another in a different color!

--- review of an older model ---

I have used these shoes for 2 months.

The feeling on the rock is below average, with the shoe starting to feel slippery on smaller pockets.

In terms of durability, it alre shows signs of wear on the leather above the sole

It's ok for first shoe but just that

I have been using them for bouldering for over 7 months (my first 7 months in the sport). I am on the heavier side (92 kg), and they have remained comfortable and robust so far. I downsized with 2 sizes.

Would recommend to anyone

I have been using this shoe now for three months and it keeps up with my progression in sport climbing very well. I would say it's a great shoe to start in if you don't have a store close to you to try different styles. For reference, I got three sizes smaller than my normal size and it still fits comfortably enough.

--- review of an older model ---

This was in fact my first pair of climbing shoes that I bought back when I began climbing (with laces). My first pair lasted me about 1 year of fairly constant use, mostly indoor bouldering, before giving in to the wear and tear I put them through. I also used them for trad and sport climbing where the performed brilliantly. Having bought other shoes that are "more advanced", I'm returning to these for their comfort for longer days at the crag!

They're extremely comfortable, durable, and can handle a range of types of climbs, performing best on vertical / slabby climbs but can do well on some overhangs. I also very much like the back of the shoe which performs well doing heel hooks. They are a little weaker for toe hooks, but then these shoes aren't designed for that type of climbing, and the little bit of rubber over the big toe does help.

Overall, I find myself buying these shoes again for their comfort, durability and versatility. They can be worn for hours and withstand quite a bit of abuse before your toes begin to poke through (you can of course get them resoled!). I certainly recommend them for a beginner climber looking for a shoe to carry them through the early stages and up to when you start climbing harder. I also recommend them to more advanced climbers looking for shoes that have great mileage, are comfortable, and can cope relatively well with harder sends. An excellent bang for buck.

--- review of an older model ---