Climbing clearance sale

Flat, curved or asymmetric shoes: which for which terrain

The shape of the climbing shoe depends on the intended terrain. A flat and comfortable model, like the Evolv Defy or the Red Chili Circuit, can be worn for a long time: it suits beginners and long routes. The curved and asymmetric shoe, like the Skwama from La Sportiva or the Evolv Phantom, focuses the pressure on the big toe to hook onto holds in overhangs and bouldering. Between the two, the Katana or the Miura, with moderate camber, remain precise on the small edges of vertical routes. The TC Pro, named after climber Tommy Caldwell, rises high on the ankle to protect it in cracks of big walls.

End of series climbing gear

The climbing clearance sale is organized by type:

• Climbing shoes.
• Textiles, trousers, shorts, t-shirts and jackets.

Laces or Velcro: tightening and fitting the shoe

The tightening system changes the use. Laces, like on the Mythos from La Sportiva, designed in 1991, adjust the shoe along the whole length of the foot: a plus for days at the crag. Velcro, like on the Ocun Jett QC, opens in a second between two bouldering attempts. A shoe should fit snugly, without socks, with toes slightly curled for a curved model. Leather stretches by about half a size with use, whereas synthetic materials stretch much less: a vegan version like the Skwama Vegan should be chosen to fit snugly from the first try-on, without relying on stretching.

Other sports on clearance

The clearance sale is available in other sports: football, running, lifestyle, bicycles, motorbikes, handball, basketball, equestrian, camping, on the clearance page.

Climbing trousers, shorts and jeans

A climbing trouser is recognized by its soft and stretchy fabric and its gusset at the crotch, allowing the foot to lift to hip height. The Wild Country Movement, made from canvas, withstands the abrasion of rock, and women's trousers from the Czech brand Ocun, like the Sansa or Noya, have a cut designed for the female body shape. The climbing jean Wild Country Spotter combines the look of denim with the necessary stretch for routes. The short, like the La Sportiva Bolt, is reserved for the gym and bouldering in the summer. Wild Country, founded in England in 1977, produced the first mechanical camming devices, known as friends.

Frequently asked questions

At what age can a child start climbing?

Many climbing gyms welcome children from four or five years old, for fun and supervised sessions in bouldering or top-rope. Kids' shoes with Velcro and minimal camber allow the foot to develop and can be put on without help.

Which muscles does climbing work?

The forearms, back, shoulders and abdominals are heavily involved, but the legs provide the main push upwards. Placing your feet well saves your arms and helps you progress faster.

Which harness should I choose for beginners?

A lightweight harness with adjustable leg loops is enough for top-rope and indoor climbing. For outdoor climbing or multi-pitch routes, a more padded model with several gear loops is needed for quickdraws and nuts.

How can I make my climbing shoes last?

Let them dry in the open air after each session, outside of the bag, to limit smells. When the rubber wears down at the tip, a cobbler can resole them before the upper is worn through, significantly extending their life.

Do you need chalk to climb?

Chalk dries the sweat on your hands and improves grip on holds. Some gyms require the liquid or ball version, which produces less dust than loose chalk.