Our verdict
Extremely comfy and stylish—this is what many will likely call the Circuit once they put it on. Those who would take a chance on it might also hail it as a lightweight wonder with stellar surface traction. That said, some outdoorsy folks might find its arch support a little on the lacking side.
Pros
- Stupendously comfortable
- Super-fashionable design
- Superbly sticky outsole
- Lightweight
Cons
- Lack of arch support
- Poor underfoot cushioning
Shunky yet springy underfoot
The Circuit from Black Diamond is a gem, thanks to its head-turning looks and equally stunning approach performance. It is a solid option if you:
- Black Diamond Circuit.
- Prefer an approach shoe that has a collapsible heel that transforms the shoe into a slip-on.
- Prefer an approach shoe that delivers a cushioned and secure ride across rocky trails.
Excellent surface traction
The Circuit from Black Diamond provides ample slip resistance over different types of surfaces with its BlackLabel-Street outsole. Diamond-shaped low-profile lugs are scatted all around it, helping adventurers remain surefooted over tricky terrain.
Excellent edging performance
The smooth and lug-less construction of its front end (also known as the climbing zone) offers additional sticking power on edges.
Stable and comfortable cushioning
The BD Circuit comes with a hard-wearing molded midsole, giving sufficient terrain stability and comfort underfoot. It is made of EVA or ethylene-vinyl acetate, which means it can withstand a great deal of weight and stress, even with repeated use.
Shunky yet springy underfoot
It owes its ability to absorb and mitigate the shock to its chunky yet springy construction, especially with its cushy footbed.
Add a product
Premium knit fabric is the primary material used in the Black Diamond Circuit’s low-top upper. Both its mesh tongue and collapsible heel come with synthetic pull tabs, making getting in and out of the shoe that much quicker.
Provides adequate abrasion protection and light climbing grip
A heavy-duty rand, which is made of rubber, covers a good portion of the Circuit’s forefoot region, delivering adequate abrasion protection and light climbing grip at the same time. The shoe’s heel also has a similar coating for extra rearfoot support.
Prefer an approach shoe that has a collapsible heel that transforms the shoe into a slip-on
What rounds out all things upper in the Black Diamond Circuit is the hiker’s lockdown system. It consists of six pairs of plated eyelets and a hard-wearing lace made of interwoven synthetic cords.
Nice to know
-Approach hikers who are looking to pair the Circuit with a knit climbing shoe from the same brand might want to give the a try. La Sportiva also has a knit offering in the a try. La Sportiva also has a knit offering in the TX2.
-The Circuit is one of the first-ever approach shoes Black Diamond has released.
