Five Ten Climb

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I choose the right Five Ten climbing shoe for my foot shape and climbing style?

  Match last shape and downturn to your foot and climbing goals: narrow or average feet often fit slimmer lasts like the Anasazi VCS for precise edging, while wider feet tend to prefer Crawe, Moccasym, or wider Hiangle lasts for comfort and smear performance. Pick an aggressive downturn for overhanging/bouldering, a flatter last for slabs and technical faces, and consider closure type (Velcro for quick on/off, lace for a customizable heel fit) when evaluating heel security and toe contact.
• What’s the difference between Stealth C4, Stealth Onyxx, and Stealth HF rubber, and when should I choose each?

  Stealth C4 is the grippiest, ideal for smearing and all-around gym and rock performance, while Stealth Onyxx emphasizes precise edging and sharp friction on small holds. Stealth HF is formulated for high-friction, steep bouldering and overhangs where sticky pull and smear matter most; choose rubber and thickness (many Five Ten designs use 5–6mm for edging durability) based on whether you prioritize smear grip or edge precision.
• How does the Anasazi VCS compare to the Crawe for sport climbing and bouldering?

  The Anasazi VCS is a slimmer, precision-oriented Velcro shoe that excels on thin edges and technical face climbing, suiting narrower feet and climbers who want crisp toe power. The Crawe is built for wider "duck feet," offering a flatter, more versatile platform that performs well on smears, pockets, and sustained face routes where comfort and volume matter more than an aggressive toe profile.
• What sizing and break-in tips work best for Five Ten shoes given different materials and constructions?

  Expect a snug, performance-oriented fit but account for upper material: lined or unlined microfiber will conform a bit with wear, whereas synthetic Cordura and non-stretch uppers hold their shape, so size accordingly. Always check heel security, toe contact, and closure—Velcro models like the Hiangle and Anasazi VCS can be fine-tuned quickly, while lace-ups like the Dragon allow a more customized fit for heel hooks and volume control.
• Which Five Ten models are best for approach walks versus technical climbing?

  For approaches, the Five Tennie is a sneaker-style approach shoe with durable tread and casual comfort for hiking to crags, while Moccasym and some flatter Crawe variants double as comfortable, low-profile options for light approaches. For technical climbing, choose models with Stealth rubber and appropriate downturns—Anasazi VCS for edging, downturned or high-friction models for steep bouldering—so you match sole stiffness and rubber to the rock and route type.