Outdoor Gear Lab
The Scarpa Mescalito Planet is the epitome of bomber construction, making it a reliable option for technical alpine objectives. However, these high-end approach shoes are the most expensive pair we tested, and they might not be a necessary purchase for someone looking to casually approach rock climbs. Even though they offer top-notch performance, their wide toe box may not be the right fit for your foot. But if you have the cash and they fit you well, the Mescalito Planet provides the..." go to full review
As an entry-level, high-top trad shoe, the Yosemite Bum has all the performance characteristics you need to romp around on moderate multi-pitches across the country. Unfortunately, the price tag doesn't reflect this shoe's mid-range feel, and we have a hard time justifying the cost based on its performance. With that said, if you have wide feet or Morton's toe and have been struggling to find a capable shoe with a comfortable fit, the Yosemite Bum is well worth your consideration.go to full review
If you have wide or high-volume feet and need a shoe that excels on long approaches, cross-country hikes, big walls, and low 5th-class climbs, the Mescalito Planet is an excellent choice. However, if you have narrow feet, these shoes will likely be too wide, and their climbing ability will be lost as your foot slides around the inside. Because of their weight, they are also not the best shoe for carrying up multi-pitch climbs. That said, for their ability to climb well, hike..." go to full review
While some have simply tried to copy the most popular model, BD took its own route and created a trad shoe that feels like a change of pace from the norm. If you want a shoe for thin crack projects and super sensitive smearing, we suggest you give the Aspect Pro a shot. While it is only a touch cheaper than directly comparable options, it is worth noting how much technology Black Diamond packed into this shoe without skyrocketing the price. If you're looking for a top-end trad shoe – and, of..." go to full review
If you are still cleaning the sand out of your vehicle from your last desert tower trip, you carry a haul bag to the coffee shop, or you have never stick-clipped a route, there have traditionally only been a few truly high-end shoes on the market for the kind of climbing you enjoy. That is changing, though, and we are seeing some pretty impressive offerings for high-top trad specialists. For a similarly high level of all-around performance as other options, with even more protection and a..." go to full review
The 9.4 Dry Climbing Rope offers decent performance at a tempting diameter. We enjoyed its combination of soft lead falls but tight top-rope catches. Our testers, however, were disappointed with its handling and durability. This rope could be a worthy choice if you can find it on sale, but there are better performing ropes if you're paying full price.go to full review
The rock climbing rope market is a crowded field and we realize cost is a huge consideration for most shoppers. The Bluewater Xenon 9.2 retails at a modest price premium compared to the most affordable ropes. In testing, we didn't identify much in the way of performance to justify the added expense. This is decent rope but it only becomes a great value if you can find it on sale.go to full review
The Edelrid Swift Eco Dry is an 8.9mm rope that comes in lengths between 60m and 80m, and is best used for situations where weight savings is mandatory. We loved our 80m for onsight attempts on 40m pitches at Chulilla and Montsant in Spain, and also laud Edelrid for taking the steps necessary to produce the most environmentally friendly climbing rope they could. While it isn't a highly affordable choice, it is certainly one that is worth the money.go to full review
There is a big difference in price between the different color options for the Sterling Velocity Xeros 9.8. The basic single-tone version is priced a little higher than a budget rope while a premium bi-pattern version increases the cost considerably. We tested the neon green bi-pattern version and were disappointed to find that the difference between the red and black complimentary pattern on either half of the rope was subtle and hard to spot. Although we usually recommend purchasing a bi-..." go to full review
In our opinion, the Mammut Crag We Care Classic is one of the best deals out there for a rock climbing rope. This rope scored near the top of the field while also costing the least. That makes it a fantastic value. There are a couple of reasons, however, why it might not be the best rope for you. The light-colored sheath on the model we tested stained quickly and was difficult to see in photos. Take these small drawbacks into consideration if aesthetics are important to you. One more..." go to full review