Climbing shoes built to improve edging performance and deliver all-day comfort on technical routes. La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder Climbing Shoes combine ventilation and padding so feet stay cooler and cushioned during long sessions. Are they the right choice for climbers who tackle sustained vertical edging and crack lines?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Wearing Comfort: Sustained support and cushioning designed for long crag days
- • Best for: Climbers focusing on vertical edging, crack climbing and extended sessions
- • Not ideal for: Climbers seeking highly aggressive performance for very steep overhangs
Engineered to help with vertical edging and crack climbing. Ventilation and padding aim to keep feet comfortable through long routes.
All-day comfort - thanks to a ventilated, well-padded tongue
A ventilated, well-padded tongue combines perforations with cushioned layers to encourage airflow and reduce pressure across the top of the foot. The padding smooths pressure points that appear during long standing or technical moves.
Reduced hotspots and better cushioning mean longer sessions with less discomfort, useful for multi-pitch or full-day crag outings.
Protection in cracks - with ankle padding
Targeted padding around the ankle adds a soft protective layer where the foot contacts crack edges and chimney placements. The extra padding helps spread impact and reduce abrasion during jamming or wide placements.
Greater confidence when placing feet in wider cracks, with less stinging and rubbing on prolonged climbs.
Breathability for long routes - thanks to a perforated leather upper
Perforated leather upper creates openings that allow air to pass through the shoe's surface, aiding moisture dispersion and reducing internal humidity. Combined with the ventilated tongue, airflow is encouraged during sustained activity.
Feet stay drier and fresher over long sessions, reducing discomfort from sweat and improving overall comfort on hot days or long approaches.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder Climbing Shoes
- Perforated leather upper - Keeps feet cooler during long multi-pitch or crag days
- Ventilated, well-padded tongue - Reduces hotspots and increases cushioning during long climbs
- Ankle padding - Added protection for foot placement in wider cracks and chimneys
- Designed for vertical edging - Stable support for standing on small edges and precise footwork
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Climbing shoes
- Model: Tarantula Boulder
- Brand: La Sportiva
- Intended use: Vertical edging, crack climbing, all-day support and comfort
- Upper: Perforated leather
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are these shoes suitable for crack climbing?
A: Yes. Designed specifically for vertical edging and crack climbing, with ankle padding intended to add protection during wider crack placements.
Q: Are the shoes breathable enough for long climbs?
A: Yes. A perforated leather upper combined with a ventilated, well-padded tongue increases airflow to help keep feet cooler during extended sessions.
Q: Do they offer extra protection around the ankle?
A: Yes. Ankle padding provides additional protection in wider cracks and reduces rubbing during sustained climbing.
🏆 Our Verdict
The Tarantula Boulder Climbing Shoes are well suited to climbers who prioritise edging precision, crack techniques and long-session comfort. Perforated leather, a ventilated padded tongue and ankle protection combine to keep feet cooler and reduce abrasion on extended routes. While likely positioned above basic gym shoes in cost, durable materials and comfort make them a sensible longer-term investment for regular outdoor climbers.
