Our verdict
Climb fans needing a shoe that clings superbly to most surfaces can pretty much bank on the Drone LV. Those desperate for a super-sensitive smearing genius with tons of comfort can also rely on this Mad Rock product. All that goodness, however, may only be experienced past its rather demanding price tag. Nonetheless, the Drone LV is nothing short of excellent, what with its short-but-sweet list of climb-worthy traits.
Pros
- Amazing surface grip
- Aggressive
- Impressive sensitivity
- Astonishingly comfortable
- Excellent in edging
Cons
- Expensive
- Stretches too much
Who should buy the Mad Rock Drone LV
Mad Rock Drone LV:
- You are looking for a shoe grippy enough to prevent slips and falls.
- A climbing companion that could adequately hold narrow rock edges is what you prefer.
Mad Rock climbing shoes
The Mad Rock Drone LV might not be ideal for Climbers on a tight budget. Its price tag might come as a shock for budget-conscious wearers. Also, folks who prefer a climbing companion that offers a skin-like hug might not like its stretchability. They may have a look at some of the best climbing shoes instead.
Mad Rock Drone LV's notable features
The Mad Rock Drone LV, the low-volume counterpart of the Drone HV, is great for edging precision, thanks to its medium stiffness and sufficiently pointed toe zone. The breathable construction of its stretchy tongue delivers an airy kind of comfort.
It comes with two brand-exclusive technologies: Science Friction 3.0 and Science Friction R2. The former is the Drone LV’s grippy outsole, while the latter is the shoe’s sticky rand.
This Mad Rock climbing shoe is a vegan-friendly product. This means that all of its components are free of any animal substance.
Profile
Downturn. The Drone LV by Mad Rock comes with an acutely downward camber. Climbers can tiptoe with it on edge-type projections with enough purchase and security. Comfort-wise, kicks of this type are ideal for single-pitch ascents or climbing in short bursts.
Applications. Bouldering and sports routes are the types of climbs for which the Drone LV is suitable. It can be used to scale steep overhangs, whether indoors or outdoors.
Fit and more
Mad Rock’s Drone LV is a below-the-ankle rock climbing shoe for men. Its low-volume construction leaves it with a smaller-than-usual heel zone and a narrow toe space. It has a highly asymmetric build, which forces the foot to lie bent (inward) within its confines. This purely synthetic shoe might stretch a little with use.
It has a pair of fit-specific technologies: Arch Flex and an expandable heel. The former adds extra snugness and support around the arch. The latter, on the other hand, promotes fit versatility within the shoe’s heel cup.
The Drone LV’s hook-and-loop closure provides lockdown security. The strap may be attached to either of its two attach points for fit personalization.
Performance
Midsole. The Mad Rock Drone LV’s provision of support comes mainly from its polyester midsole. 1.8 mm is its overall thickness.
Outsole. Drone LV is furnished with the Science Friction 3.0 rubber outsole that has multi-directional traction. It comes at a thickness of 4.2 mm.
Upper
The low-cut upper of the Drone LV is called Syn Flex—an enclosure made primarily of microfiber. Three synthetic pull tabs are stitched securely around its opening for easy on and off. Both sides of its lower perimeter are amply randed (courtesy of Science Friction R2), giving users a lateral smearing grip. The shoe’s front end comes built with a rubber patch, which provides climbing security where toe hooks and similar maneuvers are required. Its fit management system is comprised of a highly adjustable Velcro strap and two-loop pads (a.k.a attach points).
