In short: The Zenist Pro and Zenist Pro LV proved to be great fitting, powerful, and supportive shoes with just enough sensitivity for high-end bouldering. They excelled at pulling and edging on holds appropriately sized for harder bouldering. They have more structure than a slipper but maintain enough sensitivity for precise footwork and competent smearing at steep angles.go to full review

EPP helmets don't tend to come cheap. The Salathe Lite's retail price of £110 is the same as the comparable Petzl Sirocco, but significantly cheaper than the BD Vapour. Lightweight, well-vented, and decent value: if the Salathe Lite fits your head then it'd be an excellent choice for all your climbing and mountaineering. Being so light may be an advantage for scrambling and winter walking, too. It's a helmet for pretty much anyone, in other words.go to full review

No all-rounder, the Method S is undoubtedly a specialist offering, but if you're after something soft and sensitive for top-end bouldering then it's one to put high on your list. Comfy and forgiving by the standards of a technical performance shoe, it's also fun to climb in.go to full review

If you're looking for a forgiving and moderately supportive all-rounder that's equally suited to beginners and all-day climbing in the less demanding grades, the Alpha is a strong contender at a very competitive price.go to full review