Five Ten NIAD VCS Climbing Shoes

The Men's Five Ten NIAD VCS Climbing Shoes are versatile, all-around climbing shoes designed for comfort, performance, and longevity on various terrains. They feature Stealth® C4™ rubber for excellent grip on edging, smearing, and other climbing techniques, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, especially vertical climbs[1][4].

Key features and specifications include:
- **Rubber:** 3.5 mm Stealth® C4 rubber outsole provides balanced grip and durability.
- **Midsole:** Medium-stiff full-length Bontex midsole (2 mm) offers a blend of support and sensitivity, ideal for edging and all-day comfort[2][5].
- **Upper:** Unlined microfiber upper is breathable, weather-resistant, durable, and soft like leather without stretching, giving a consistent fit for multiple resoles[2][7].
- **Closure:** Two hook-and-loop Velcro straps enable easy entry and secure adjustment.
- **Shape & Fit:** Flat last with low asymmetry and medium-high volume offers a neutral fit prioritizing comfort, especially on longer climbs and multi-pitch routes[3][5].
- **Weight:** Approximate weight is 9.1 oz (259 g), suitable for prolonged wear[5].
- **Additional:** Extended toe rubber maximizes contact area for friction, and the shoe’s heel fit offers a secure hold with heel tension. It is recommended to size up as the shoe runs small[2].

The NIAD VCS excels as a multipitch, all-day climbing shoe for intermediate climbers who need comfort without sacrificing moderate performance. Its design makes it less suited for extreme overhung routes but excellent for vertical to slightly overhanging sport climbs and technical face climbing where precision and comfort are crucial[3][6]. The shoe balances edging ability with smearing thanks to its medium stiffness and Stealth® C4 rubber, making it an excellent choice for climbers seeking a reliable, durable, and comfortable shoe for a broad range of climbing styles and conditions[1][5].