The Five Ten Team climbing shoes are customized for only one purpose, to conquer steep boulders.
It has a design that prioritizes areas that enhance its performance.
However, this comes at the expense of comfort, and the soft rubber affects the shoes’ lifespan.
It is the perfect shoe for someone looking for elite performance.
The Five Ten Team (5.10) climbing shoe birders on the extremes and is full of superlatives in every aspect.
It replaces the previous holder of the position, the classic Blues as Teams’ premier shoe at the highest level of bouldering.
That shoe which had built a cultic following has undergone upgrading, and its latest iteration is the 5.10 team.
With its slick and professional black looks, the 5.10 Team has emerged to be the yardstick of elite-level bouldering activity.
Of course, it suffers from the shortcomings any shoe built with such specialization would suffer from.
Yet, it was only ever meant to be a performance bouldering shoe, and in that, it does not disappoint.
There are four aspects that are at the center of its performance, and we will look into them in more detail.
This Five Ten Team review looks at how the shoe performs in all these metrics.
What we like about Five Ten Team climbing shoes:
- Excellent toe-hooking ability
- Classy design
- Excellent smearing ability
- Ultra-thin STEALTH HF rubber
- Increased elasticity of the entry, so that the shoe slides on for a performance fit
- Closure: Velcro Brand Strap/ Elastic
- Mi6 rubber provides exceptional sensitivity and a glove-like fit
- Fish hook midsole delivers edging power
- Velcro closure system makes the shoe easy to put on, or to take off between sends
Last update on 2023-09-25 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
What we don’t like about Five Ten Team climbing shoes:
- Not comfortable
- Can suffer from deformation
- Steep bouldering and sport climbing
Five Ten Team Feature Highlights
This “secret weapon” of a shoe features ultra-thin STEALTH HF™ rubber that lets you feel the rock like never before.
Five Ten Team Feature Toe Box
The Five Ten Team has the most aesthetic toe box of any climbing shoe.
It is only befitting then that this is one area that significantly adds to the shoe’s performance.
First, the toe has a pointed but broad, almost spade-like profile.
It also has a minor bump feature under the toes.
These two features add intensity to the smearing ability on the show, especially on the low-angle volumes.
There is also an improvement in the shoe’s edging ability, especially where diving in the rocks will not be forthcoming.
Since the shoe does not have an aggressive downturn, the small bump augments its hooking ability.
This extra hooking ability allows you to gain footholds, especially when handling overhanging bouldering.
Once the shoe is broken in, you also can generate movement from the foot with minimal contact.
Another feature is the Stealth rubber which wraps the shoe from the toe box up to the mid-section of the shoe.
The result is a glove effect that enhances toe hooking in all kinds of environments giving that extra bit of rubber contact that helps you attain controlled movement.
- Ultra-thin STEALTH HF rubber
- Increased elasticity of the entry, so that the shoe slides on for a performance fit
- Closure: Velcro Brand Strap/ Elastic
- Mi6 rubber provides exceptional sensitivity and a glove-like fit
- Fish hook midsole delivers edging power
- Velcro closure system makes the shoe easy to put on, or to take off between sends
Last update on 2023-09-25 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
Five Ten Team Feature Heel
Unlike its toe box, the heel of the five-ten assumes a compact and slim profile.
This aspect has both its positives and its setbacks.
The main positive is that the slip size allows you to fit your foot in slots and pockets that otherwise chunkier shoes would not fit.
On the flip side, some user reviews point to a tendency for the shoe to be deformed, especially when you use the shoes sideways.
Some find this design to be a bit frustrating.
The heel, however, proves effective in most circumstances.
Further, the aggressive design and size maintain the tension between the shoe and foot, so it doesn’t need much tightening of the Velcro strap to secure the heel.
While there may be misgivings regarding the suitability of the heel, it still carries its weight in ensuring the shoe performs well even in hard bouldering environments.
- Ultra-thin STEALTH HF rubber
- Increased elasticity of the entry, so that the shoe slides on for a performance fit
- Closure: Velcro Brand Strap/ Elastic
- Mi6 rubber provides exceptional sensitivity and a glove-like fit
- Fish hook midsole delivers edging power
- Velcro closure system makes the shoe easy to put on, or to take off between sends
Last update on 2023-09-25 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
Five Ten Team Feature Rubber
After the toe box, the rubber on the 5.10 Team is the next star performer in terms of impact on performance.
The shoe uses C4 stealth rubber, and this gives it an edge over other competing shoes.
The rubber is excellently grippy; it may even be a tad too much.
Such is the sticking power that if you are in the habit of dragging the back foot up a wall, it will attach to things.
Another good quality of the rubber is that it breaks in after a fairly short duration.
Even then, it does prove to be quite tight and even pinchy, but in due time it shows its excellent sensitivity.
The only downside with such attributes of soft rubber is that it cuts down on the shoe’s lifespan.
- Ultra-thin STEALTH HF rubber
- Increased elasticity of the entry, so that the shoe slides on for a performance fit
- Closure: Velcro Brand Strap/ Elastic
- Mi6 rubber provides exceptional sensitivity and a glove-like fit
- Fish hook midsole delivers edging power
- Velcro closure system makes the shoe easy to put on, or to take off between sends
Last update on 2023-09-25 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
Five Ten Team Feature Comfort and Fit
From the outset, you should know that this is not a comfortable shoe.
Once you understand that, then everything else is perfect, and you can easily appreciate the qualities of the shoe.
The primary purpose of the shoe’s design is to be able to stick at non-existent hooks, especially on steep boulders.
The demands of such a performance-centered design mean some areas will lose out, and, in this case, comfort was the sacrifice.
So aggressive are the shoes that you will even struggle with getting your feet inside the first time.
The shoes run small, so finding a shoe size can be tricky and will also depend on your preferences.
If you are to pick a shoe size, plan to scale up from your street shoe size to 1 size up.
Ladies can easily opt for men’s shoes with half a size up.
If you prefer your climbing shoes to have an aggressive fit, then you can go only half a size up or even work with your street size.
However, if you want a slightly comfortable fit, then consider going at least a full-size up.
Even with your preferences, you still must factor in the breaking-in period of the 5.10 Team shoe.
The break-in period for these shoes will be the most discomforting you have ever had.
If you do not have experience breaking in aggressive shoes, you should go for a larger size to lessen the pain.
It will take time before you can even spend three hours with the shoe at home.
The good thing, though, is that once they break in, you can enjoy these shoes’ superb performance, especially their hypersensitivity.
In the beginning, it may be hard to pick on this quality as your toes are in pain.
Unparalleled Control for Microscopic Edges and Invisible Smears
The Five Ten Team is a high-end bouldering and sport climbing shoe capable of handling a variety of angles and rock types, ranging from granite boulders and steep limestone sport routes to more technical, vertical climbs.
With the modified entry in the new black model, any intermediate or advanced sport climber or boulderer looking for a well-rounded performance shoe geared for precision footwork—or one specifically for toe hooking—should definitely check out the Team 5.10.
Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes FAQ
What makes Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes stand out compared to other climbing shoes on the market?
Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes are known for their superior grip and edging capabilities due to their Stealth rubber sole.
They also have a tight and precise fit, making them ideal for technical climbing.
Additionally, the shoes have a durable and breathable design, making them comfortable for extended use.
Overall, the combination of grip, fit, and durability sets Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes apart from other climbing shoes on the market.
Can the Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes be used for both indoor and outdoor climbing?
Yes, the Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes can be used for both indoor and outdoor climbing.
They are designed to provide excellent grip and traction on various surfaces, including both artificial and natural climbing walls.
How do the Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes fit compared to other Five Ten models?
According to Five Ten’s website, the Team Climbing Shoes have a similar fit to the Anasazi and Hiangle models, with a snug and precise fit.
However, some reviews suggest that the Team Climbing Shoes may run slightly smaller than other Five Ten models, so it is recommended to go half a size up.
It is always best to try on climbing shoes before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
Are the Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes suitable for beginners, or are they designed for more advanced climbers?
The Five Ten Team climbing shoes are designed for more advanced climbers who need high-performance shoes for technical climbing.
They may not be suitable for beginners who are still working on technique and building strength in their feet and legs.
What is the price range for Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes, and are they worth the investment for serious climbers?
The price range for Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes varies depending on the specific model and size but typically ranges from $150 to $200.
As for whether they’re worth the investment for serious climbers ultimately depends on personal preference and needs.
Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes are known for their superior grip and performance on steep and technical routes, so if that’s a priority for a serious climber, then they may be worth the investment.
However, there are many other high-quality climbing shoe brands and models on the market that may also be suitable for serious climbers, so it’s important to research and try on different options before making a decision.
How does the fit of Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes compare to other brands?
According to various customer reviews and feedback, the fit of Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes is generally considered to be true to size, with a snug and precise fit.
Some users have reported that Five Ten shoes tend to have a narrower toe box compared to other brands, so it’s recommended to try them on before purchasing.
What type of climbing are Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes best suited for?
Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes are best suited for sport climbing and bouldering.
Can Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes be resoled, and if so, how many times?
Yes, Five Ten Team Climbing Shoes can be resolved.
The number of times they can be resoled depends on how often they are used and the extent of the wear and tear on the sole.
Generally, they can be resoled multiple times before the upper of the shoe begins to break down.
It is recommended to consult a professional cobbler or the manufacturer for specific guidance on resoling.
To Summarize: Five Ten Team Review
The Five Ten Team climbing shoes are not for anyone, especially those to whom supreme comfort is necessary for climbing shoes.
However, for that person seeking a step up in climbing performance, they are a perfect choice.
There is a reason why elite sport climbers choose them both in competition and outdoor environments; they are genuine difference-maker.
- Ultra-thin STEALTH HF rubber
- Increased elasticity of the entry, so that the shoe slides on for a performance fit
- Closure: Velcro Brand Strap/ Elastic
- Mi6 rubber provides exceptional sensitivity and a glove-like fit
- Fish hook midsole delivers edging power
- Velcro closure system makes the shoe easy to put on, or to take off between sends
Last update on 2023-09-25 // Source: Amazon Affiliates
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Last Updated on March 23, 2023 by Roger
