Our verdict
That sense of being able to take on various beginner-level climbing challenges is quite apparent in the Tarantula Boulder from La Sportiva. Called "solid for the price" by a seasoned sender, this neutral climbing kick is big on control, as well as comfort. While it takes time to conform to the contours of the foot, once broken in, the Tarantula Boulder feels custom-made.
Pros
- May 31, 2023
- Remarkably comfortable
- Becomes glove-like after a day of use
- Excellent Velcro adjustability
- Gives a very secure feeling
- Astonishing craftsmanship
- Convenient on and off
Cons
- With break-in
- No short-cuts taken in its creation
Loose heel fit initially
The La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder is a highly capable all-rounder at a fair price. Buy it if:
- You want something that eliminates dead zones with every climb.
- Well-made entry-level climbing shoes are what you're after.
- You're looking for a shoe that allows for a precise fit in two different zones.
Becomes glove-like after a day of use
Skip the Tarantula Boulder for the La Sportiva Zenit if you prefer a pair with zero break-in time. And if you need something with a spot-on fit straight from the box, check out the Origin from Scarpa.
Comfort that makes you go gaga
Senders are floored by the enchantingly supple interior of the La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder. The comments "felt bad a$ on my feet" and "They are surprisingly comfortable" support their observation.
entry-level climbing shoes
Based on reviews, the featured climbing shoe from La Sportiva envelops the foot just right. A climber says that it fits "like a glove." Another climber has this in their review: "Toes are perfectly crammed without them being uncomfortable."
That said, it appears the shoe's incredible fit is not a day-one affair. A sender reported that the Tarantula Boulder's heel zone was somewhat loose at first. "There was a periodic fart sound as I walked," said he. Fortunately, the issue went away after using the shoe for a day or two.
Fantastic for the freshman climber
Its combination of pampering fit and well-rounded performance makes the Tarantula Boulder a shoo-in for new climbers. A commenter says, "I would greatly recommend them for beginners who don't want to spend too much on high-level shoes." Another one says that it's a "good option for beginners."
Be victorious with Velcro
The La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder's closure is quite impressive, and ascenders agree. One of them says that it's "surprisingly easy to tighten." "The Velcro strap pieces have plenty of room to adjust tightness," says another. Yet one more reviewer says, "I feel secure in these."
are what youre after
Getting in and out of the Tarantula Boulder is super fast. A non-professional tester says that it's "easy to get on with the pull straps in the back," while another says that it's "quick and easy to take off/on."
No short-cuts taken in its creation
When it comes to finish, the La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder is the one to beat. Backing this statement are the comments "really solid" and "definitely quality material."
