[Tent Trails]

Hey fellow rock enthusiasts! So, I recently got my hands (or should I say feet?) on the Five Ten Anasazi VCS, and I felt like sharing my two cents and a bit of personal charm about these bad boys. I’ve been testing them out on some rocky adventures and, let’s be honest, my climbing shoes have never looked cooler—even if my climbing technique hasn’t improved!

Comfort & Fit:
I was a bit skeptical initially because the word “comfortable” isn’t usually the first thing that comes to mind when breaking in new climbing shoes. But I was pleasantly surprised! These shoes come with magic Velcro straps (okay, maybe not actual magic) that make adjustments a breeze. No more wrestling with laces when I’m halfway up a route or squished toes that feel like they’re staging a coup. Word of advice: Size up a half-size if you prefer a bit more wiggle room or have feet that swell faster than my ego after a successful climb.

Performance:
Sticky rubber, baby! The Stealth C4 rubber makes me feel like Spider-Man—minus the superhero tights. I’ve tested these on slabs, overhangs, and even my friend’s bouldering wall (which I graciously christened with a few chalky handprints). The shoes hold edges beautifully, and my smearing game just got a whole lot more confident. Honestly, these shoes grip better than my cat when he’s trying to avoid a bath.

Durability:
I’ve thrown everything at them from sharp rocks to questionable landing zones, and they’re holding up like champs. The synthetic upper hasn’t stretched out too much, so I’m not dealing with floppy shoe syndrome just yet. Also, is it just me, or do they almost have a life of their own and seem to repel dirt?

Now, a quick shoutout to how stylish they look. There’s just something about strutting into the climbing gym with these vibrant blue kicks that makes you feel like you’ve really got your life together—even if you can’t open a can of tuna without looking like you’ve been rock climbing inside said can.

Has anyone else given these shoes a whirl? I’d love to hear your experiences, any tips on breaking them in, or even just brutal honesty if they made you trip over your own feet. Let’s nerd out about climbing shoes together!

[Outdoorsman Toolkit]

I couldn’t agree more; the Five Ten Anasazi VCS are a total game-changer! 🧗‍♂️ Here are a few things I’ve noticed while trying to maintain my dignity while scaling the indoor boulder wall:

• Socks or No Socks? 😜 – This eternal debate comes into play with these shoes. Personally, I go no socks for the best feel, but on cold days I’m a bit more forgiving. What do you folks think? Might be good for some inspiration for those developing blisters!
• Breaking Them In: You’ve listed some great tips already, but if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, wear them a bit when you’re lounging at home. Nothing says “dedicated climber” like doing dish duty in fresh climbing shoes. 😅
• Climbing Partners Beware: The gripping power on these is so intense, your buddies might feel embarrassed at their slip-n-slide moves next to you. Possibly an opportunity to humble brag about your superb gear selection. 😉

Also, I second the style shoutout. Whoever designed those blue hues knew that a little splash of color goes a long way when your outfit otherwise consists of chalk dust and gym sweat. 💙 So if anyone else out there got inspired to do some spontaneous break-dancing (or let’s be real, unintentional tripping) in these shoes, share the love and let’s keep our climbing chat as vibrant as those kicks!

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