Don’t feel this climbing shoe is just limited for routes in the states (we have our fair share of cracks and edges too!). The TC Pro by La Sportiva has been designed to provide powerful, technical edging and crack climbing prowess without compromising either. This game changing, mid-height edging machine will take you out of a technical thin hands to rattley fingers crack and out on to the diciest edges you can find. Thin padding in the ankle and above the toes protects you in the cracks and the patented P3® platform delivers sensitive yet powerful edging abilities. The toes flat fit is perfect for comfortable crack climbing and the ventilated tongue and lateral rand perforations promote air-flow. La Sportiva have worked with Vibram® on a new rubber compound that works best for technical edging and developed the XS Edge™ compound which holds an edge better on sharp micro edges. This shoe was designed in collaboration with La Sportiva climbing athlete Tommy Caldwell (hence the TC).
When asked what inspired his design work on the TC Pro, Tommy has this to say:
"La Sportiva came to me with the opportunity to help design a shoe for granite. At the time I was in the early stages of working on the Dawn Wall so I had this route specifically in mind during the design process. It helped me analyze very specifically the way a shoe needs to function for big wall free climbing. It had to function at a very high level while still being comfortable. It also had to be robust enough to protect your feet through all the abuse big walls dish out. I never could have imagined it would turn out so well. It was a game changer for me. "
Buyers Guide - How to choose Rock ShoesWith over 70 different styles of men’s, women’s and kid’s rockshoes available across our physical and online shops, choosing the right pair of rock shoes can be a daunting prospect!
The key to buying amazing climbing footwear is to come into the shops, chat with our friendly, experienced staff and take the time to try on lots of different types. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or experienced climber, rock shoes are close-fitting and made very differently from normal shoes, so a precision fit is really important to enjoy your climbing.
We stock adult rock shoes from size UK2 (EU 35) to UK 14.5 (EU 50) and children’s sizes from UK Jnr 10.
- Why do I need rockshoes?- What is the difference between a rockboot, a rockshoe and a climbing slipper?- Why are there so many different types of rock shoe to choose from?- Should I wear rockshoes with socks?- What should I look for as a beginner?- How should rockshoes fit?- What is a last and how is it important?- What do “neutral”, “moderate” and “aggressive” mean?
- What are rockshoes made from?
- Why are there different types of rubber used on the sole?
- How can I make my rockshoes last longer?
Top tips to make the right choice:Don’t use price as your guide. Chat through the type of climbing you do and what you are planning so that we can help you make the best choice.
If you are planning on using your rockshoes at altitude – size up to allow for expansion. Lace-up shoes are good for allowing your feet a little extra space. Especially if you are climbing in the cold when blood circulation is critical.
When you try on a lace-up shoe, undo the laces completely and then tighten them accordingly from toe to ankle.
Come into the shop with lots of time to spare so that you can try lots of shoes on to compare. We also have holds for you to try them on so you can see how they feel when you put your weight on your foot.