Five Ten Anasazi VCS

Edging 

The edging ability of Five Ten Anasazi shoes is one of their standout features, with the sticky rubber providing enough traction to confidently navigate small edges. One of the notable traits of these shoes is the ample rubber coverage on the sole. This significantly enhances the edging capability of the Anasazi, allowing climbers to rely on their shoes even in the most challenging of situations. Additionally, the toe box provides just the right amount of stiffness to support the balls of the feet when making precise movements on small edges.

While the midsole may not provide as much support as some climbers may like, the stiffness in the toe box compensates for this shortcoming. This feature makes the Anasazi an excellent choice for climbers who frequently find themselves in crack systems where the edges are thin and small.

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Pockets

The Five Ten Anasazi is a moderately aggressive climbing shoe, designed to perform well on vertical terrains. It has a pocket-friendly shape that helps it hold its own in technical routes. However, it lacks the asymmetrical toe box that is commonly found in sport climbing shoes, which allows for easier entry into tight pockets. Despite this, the Anasazi has a bulkier toe box, making it less ideal for navigating pockets on steep terrain. This climbing shoe is a good choice for climbers who want a versatile shoe that can handle a variety of routes, with a focus on vertical climbing.

Heel Cup

The Five Ten Anasazi is a world’s best edging shoe thanks to its finely tuned heel cup and asymmetric toe shape. This unique combination provides a high level of precision, allowing the climber to feel confident on the tiniest of holds. The heel cup is specifically designed to provide maximum comfort, support and stability. The shape of the cup molds perfectly to the climber’s heel, reducing the chance of slippage and providing a secure fit.

The asymmetric toe shape of the Anasazi contributes to its edging performance. This shape helps to focus power and energy directly onto the toes, making it easier to grip and hold onto the smallest of holds. The Anasazi’s narrow fit also allows for a more direct connection between the shoe and the rock, improving sensitivity and making it easier to feel the subtlest of movements. This, combined with the heel cup, makes the Anasazi an excellent choice for technical climbing and challenging routes.

Five Ten Anasazi VCS vs La Sportive Shoes

One alternative to the Anasazi is the La Sportiva Solution, which is designed for more aggressive climbing and excels on overhanging terrain. The Solution features a downturned shape, a more aggressive toe box, and a snug, supportive fit. While the Solution is ideal for steep climbing, it may not be as comfortable for all-day sessions at the crag as the Anasazi.

The Anasazi VCS vs Scarpa Veloce

The Anasazi VCS is a classic and durable shoe that has been part of Five Ten’s legacy for years. It is known for its performance on steep terrain, and has been the preferred choice of many top-class climbers, including Tom Randall, Pete Whittaker and Steve McClure. The VCS is designed for more advanced climbers and has a sturdier build to handle challenging routes.

On the other hand, the Scarpa Veloce is a softer and more comfortable shoe that is better suited for indoor climbing. This shoe is ideal for intermediate climbers who are looking for a more relaxed fit. The Veloce has a comfortable, all-day fit that allows climbers to keep their focus on their climbing without having to worry about discomfort or pain in their feet. The Scarpa Veloce is a good choice for climbers who prioritize comfort and versatility in their climbing gear.