Top Advanced Climbing Shoes: Push Your Limits with So iLL, Tenaya, and Evolv

Once you’ve outgrown intermediate shoes and are chasing harder boulder problems, technical sport projects, or competition-level precision, advanced climbing shoes give you the edge. These shoes trade some comfort for extreme sensitivity, power, and control — helping you stick micro-edges, toe-hook confidently, and smear with maximum feedback.

Below are three advanced models available at Boulder Planet Showroom, each representing a different approach to high-performance climbing footwear from So iLL, Tenaya, and Evolv.

What Makes a Climbing Shoe “Advanced”

Advanced shoes share a few defining traits:

• Aggressive downturn or asymmetry to focus power on the toes.
• High tension systems or stiff midsoles to transfer force efficiently.
• Sticky, high-friction rubber and extensive toe/heel coverage for hooks and smears.
• Performance fit — snug, precise, and often less forgiving for long periods.

These shoes are purpose-built for pushing limits: steep boulders, tiny edges, and technical sequences where every millimetre of contact matters.

So iLL Roam Soft – Sensitivity Meets Aggression

The So iLL Roam Soft blends a downturned profile with a softer construction to prioritise sensitivity without losing aggression. It’s ideal for modern bouldering and competition-style climbing where feeling the volume or subtle texture of a hold is crucial.

Key perks: a responsive, flexible sole for feedback on friction and volumes; full rubber coverage for secure toe and heel hooks; and a shape that channels power to the big toe while remaining forgiving enough for dynamic movement. Choose the Roam Soft if you want to feel every nuance underfoot while still getting the drive needed on steep terrain.

So iLL Roam Soft: Soft, sensitive, and aggressive — built for modern bouldering and comp-style movement.

Tenaya Mastia – Precision Without Compromise

The Tenaya Mastia is built for razor-sharp edging and delicate footwork. Its sensitive construction and asymmetric last push power toward the big toe, making it excellent for technical sport routes and comp-style problems that demand tiny, confident placements.

Expect excellent feedback on small edges and the ability to stand on minimal contact. The Mastia also provides surprising comfort for an advanced shoe, so you can work projects longer without losing performance on micro-moves.

Tenaya Mastia: A master of precision and control, perfect for tiny edges and technical routes.

Evolv Phantom – Power for Steep Terrain

The Evolv Phantom focuses on maximum toe power and structured support for overhangs and hard boulder problems. With a pronounced downturn and a dual-tension system, it keeps your foot locked and the toes engaged when you need forceful precision.

Designed with elite input for extreme performance, the Phantom shines on steep, powerful sequences — think long heel/toe hook sets and aggressive compression moves. If you’re pushing V8+ or projecting steep sport routes, this is a shoe that turns intent into holds that stick.

Evolv Phantom: Engineered for steep terrain, delivering power and tension when every move counts.

How to Choose the Right Advanced Shoe

Match the shoe to your goals and preferences:

• Climbing focus: soft, sensitive shoes (Roam Soft) for volumes and friction; precise edge-focused models (Mastia) for tiny footholds; stiff, powerful options (Phantom) for overhangs and power moves.
• Fit preference: advanced shoes will fit snug — aim for a performance fit that’s tight but not painfully crippling.
• Break-in: some advanced shoes need minimal break-in, others will conform slightly with wear. Expect little stretch compared to beginner shoes.

Take Your Performance Further at Boulder Planet Showroom

All three models are available to try at Boulder Planet Showroom. The best way to pick an advanced shoe is to try them on and test a few moves — fit and feel are everything at this level. Our staff can help you compare sizing, tension, and style so you leave with the shoe that matches your project.

Ready to climb harder? Visit Boulder Planet Showroom and find the shoe that pushes your limits.