Basics of Five Ten Crawe Climbing Shoes: Pros, Cons, and Performance

When it comes to climbing, having the right pair of shoes can make all the difference in your performance and comfort. Five Ten, a renowned name in climbing footwear, has introduced the Crawe, a modern all-arounder designed to meet the needs of climbers. In this article, we’ll delve into the basics of the Five Ten Crawe climbing shoes, discussing their pros, cons, and overall performance.

The Crawe Climbing Shoes – An Overview

The Five Ten Crawe climbing shoes are moderately downturned and slightly asymmetrical, offering a unique blend of features to cater to climbers’ needs. Let’s break down their key attributes:

Pros

1. Excellent Performance on Smears and Volumes: The Crawe excels on smears and volumes, providing climbers with reliable grip on a variety of surfaces.
2. Outstanding Toe-Hooking Performance: Climbers who rely on toe hooks will appreciate the Crawe’s prowess in this area.
3. Comfortable Out of the Box: Unlike many climbing shoes that require a painful break-in period, the Crawe offers comfort right from the start.
4. Sock-like Feel with Minimal Stretching: These shoes maintain their snug fit over time, ensuring a consistent climbing experience.
5. Impressive Pull-Tabs: The Crawe features large, comfortable pull-tabs, making it easy to put on and take off.
6. Wide Toebox: Ideal for climbers with wider feet, the Crawe’s roomy toebox provides comfort and flexibility.

Cons

1. Challenges with Toeing on Steep Walls: Climbers may find it less effective for toeing in on steep walls, especially on larger holds, due to its flat profile and stiff sole.
2. Not Suitable for Higher Arches: Those with higher arches may not find the Crawe to be the best fit, as it lacks the necessary arch support.
3. Thick Rubber Heel and Stiff Sole: Some climbers may perceive the heel and sole as somewhat clunky, impacting sensitivity on certain holds.
4. Less Ideal for Narrow Feet: Climbers with narrower feet may struggle to find the perfect fit, as the Crawe tends to cater to wider-footed individuals.
5. Mid-Tier Price Range: While not exorbitantly priced, the Crawe falls into a mid-tier price range, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious climbers.

Our Thoughts on the Five Ten Crawe Climbing Shoes

Designed primarily for bouldering and sport climbing, the Five Ten Crawe climbing shoes are a solid choice for gym climbers seeking versatility. Here’s our take on their performance in different scenarios:

Indoor Climbing

The Crawe is particularly attractive to gym climbers who want a shoe that can handle sub-vertical volumes, steep board climbs, and occasional autobelays. Its sensitivity, support, and comfortable fit make it an excellent companion for indoor climbing sessions.

Outdoor Climbing

Outdoors, the Crawe performs adequately but truly shines on high-volume climbing days at locations like the Red River Gorge. While it can handle a variety of terrains, it may not be the go-to choice for precision-demanding granite bouldering.

Sizing and Shape Considerations

Choosing the right size for climbing shoes is crucial for a comfortable and effective climbing experience. Here are some insights into sizing and shape considerations for the Crawe:

• Sizing can vary among climbers. Some prefer to match their street shoe size, while others opt for a slightly smaller size for a snug fit.
• The Crawe accommodates a relatively wide toe box, making it suitable for climbers with wider forefeet.
• Climbers with narrow feet may need to explore other shoe options or consider sizing down for a better fit.

Conclusion

In summary, the Five Ten Crawe climbing shoes offer a balanced blend of features suitable for a wide range of climbing styles. While they may not be the top choice for highly specialized climbers, they perform admirably in both indoor and outdoor settings. Gym climbers, in particular, will appreciate the Crawe’s ability to tackle various challenges with ease.

Ultimately, the choice of climbing shoes depends on your specific preferences and needs. The Crawe can serve as a reliable training shoe and a versatile option for those looking to conquer a variety of climbing routes. So, whether you’re scaling indoor walls or exploring the great outdoors, the Five Ten Crawe climbing shoes could be a valuable addition to your climbing gear collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are the Five Ten Crawe climbing shoes suitable for beginners? The Crawe’s versatility makes it suitable for climbers of various skill levels, including beginners. Its comfortable fit and performance on different terrains make it a solid choice for those starting their climbing journey.
2. Can the Crawe climbing shoes be used for traditional (trad) climbing? While the Crawe is designed primarily for bouldering and sport climbing, some climbers may find it adequate for trad climbing, especially on less technical routes. However, it may not be the best option for demanding trad climbs.
3. Do the Crawe climbing shoes require a lengthy break-in period? No, the Crawe climbing shoes are known for their comfort right out of the box. They require minimal break-in time, allowing you to enjoy your climbing sessions without discomfort.
4. What is the price range of the Five Ten Crawe climbing shoes? The Crawe falls into the mid-tier price range for climbing shoes. While not the most expensive option on the market, it offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
5. Are there any specific care instructions for maintaining the Crawe climbing shoes? To prolong the life of your Crawe climbing shoes, it’s essential to keep them clean and dry after each use. Avoid exposing them to excessive heat or direct sunlight, as this can damage the rubber and materials. Regularly inspect the shoes for any signs of wear or damage and address them promptly to ensure optimal performance.