Five Ten NIAD VCS Climbing Shoes Women's, Black, Size 9 Review
The Five Ten NIAD VCS Climbing Shoes represent the pinnacle of climbing footwear innovation. With a heritage dating back to 1985, these shoes have been designed for climbers who are determined to push their limits. The NIAD is not just another pair of shoes; it’s the culmination of years of experience and development in climbing technology.
These flat-lasted climbing shoes offer an impressive balance between power and sensitivity, making them perfect for edging on small footholds while still providing excellent grip for smear techniques. The combination of a medium-stiff midsole and soft microfiber upper ensures that you gain the utmost comfort during those long climbs, whether indoors at the gym or out on the rock face.
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Features
- Hook-and-loop closure for easy adjustments
- Medium-stiff midsole for optimal support
- Synthetic upper with minimal stretch for durability
- Stealth rubber coverage over the toe for superior grip
- Designed for all-day comfort and high performance
Pros
- Exceptional comfort right out of the box
- Versatile for both indoor and outdoor climbing
- High-quality Stealth rubber provides excellent traction
- Lightweight design enhances agility
Cons
- Some users may find the sizing runs small
- Not ideal for climbers seeking maximum stiffness
- Price point may be higher than entry-level options
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Five Ten NIAD VCS | La Sportiva Theory | Scarpa Drago |
|---|---|---|---|
| Closure Type | Hook & Loop | Shoe Lace | Velcro |
| Midsole Stiffness | Medium | Soft | Soft |
| Outer Material | Synthetic | Leather/Synthetic | Microfiber |
| Best Use | Indoor/Outdoor | Sport Climbing | Bouldering |
Detailed Review
If you’re looking for a pair of climbing shoes that deliver both comfort and performance, the Five Ten NIAD VCS should definitely be on your radar. The shoe's hook-and-loop closure allows you to get the perfect fit quickly, which can be crucial when you're gearing up for a challenging route.
The NIAD features a synthetic upper that minimizes stretch, ensuring that the shoe retains its shape and performance characteristics over time. This is coupled with a medium-stiff midsole, providing you with the right amount of support without sacrificing sensitivity. This balance makes the NIAD versatile for various climbing styles, from technical sport routes to gym sessions.
One of the standout features of these shoes is the Stealth rubber used on the outsole. This material has legendary traction qualities, allowing you to confidently tackle any surface. Whether you're trying to stand on a dime or smear on a slab, the NIAD's rubber provides the grip you need to succeed.
Lastly, the all-day comfort of this shoe cannot go unnoticed. Many climbers appreciate being able to wear them for extended periods without discomfort, making them a worthy investment for anyone serious about climbing. However, be sure to try them on as they might run a bit small compared to regular shoe sizes.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional comfort suitable for long climbing sessions. |
| Performance | 8.5/10 | Great overall performance with excellent edging and smearing capabilities. |
| Durability | 9/10 | High-quality materials ensure longevity even with frequent use. |
| Fit | 7/10 | Sizing may be inconsistent; best to try before you buy. |
User Reviews
I love these shoes! Yes, the sizing is off and it took me three tries to find the right size but once I did, I’ve lived in them. They’re extremely comfortable and I find that I don’t remove these in between climbs to rest my feet. Also I love the rubber. I’m picky when it comes to rubber and I’m usually never let down by 5.10 which is why I have stayed with them for so long.
Looks like quality but the size chart is wrong. I measured by cm and still got 2 sizes too small or more. Will try again with an 8 or 8.5.. but this was retardedly SMALL. See video. Actually - since the larger sizes are more expensive, as much as I used to like the brand for other workout shoes, I am going with another brand where customers all reviewed as 'correct fit'. Adidas sent this one marked 7, but it is between 5.5-6 US and narrower than AA-- again, almost like a child sized shoe
Way too small. Looks like a kids shoe