Climbing Shoe Rubber Explained: Friction, Durability, and Care

When it comes to climbing shoes, the rubber on the sole is just as important as the shoe’s shape and fit. Rubber is what keeps you connected to the rock or wall, turning your footwork into precision and power. But not all rubber is created equal—understanding the differences can help you choose the right shoe and get the most out of your climbing.

Types of Rubber and Their Properties

Soft Rubber

• Grippy and sensitive, great for smearing and feeling footholds.
• Ideal for slab climbing or technical bouldering where precision matters.
• Downside: wears out faster.
• Example: Vibram XS Grip 2

Stiff Rubber

• Provides support and edging power, allowing you to stand on tiny holds with confidence.
• Excellent for vertical routes and edging-intensive climbs.
• Downside: less sensitivity compared to softer rubber.
• Example: Vibram XS Edge

Thickness

• Thinner rubber (3–4mm): more sensitivity, lighter feel, but less durable.
• Thicker rubber (4–5mm): more longevity and support, but can feel “numb” underfoot.

In short: softer, thinner rubber = more feel but less life. Stiffer, thicker rubber = more durability but less finesse.

The So iLL Stay is made with thin Vibram XS Grip rubber, making it very soft - ideal for smearing on the slab and long climbing routes.

Choosing Rubber for Different Climbing Styles

Different styles of climbing demand different rubber qualities:

• Slab climbing – Soft rubber shines here, letting you smear and stick to large features and volumes.
• Overhangs – Shoes with stiffer rubber support powerful toe hooks and edges, where raw pulling power is key.
• Vertical walls – Stiffer rubber offers stability and edging power for sustained face climbs.
• Bouldering – Many boulderers prefer softer rubber for sensitivity, since attempts are short and precise.
• Sport climbing – Depends on the route: softer for steep caves, stiffer for long technical routes.

Tip: Don’t downsize your shoes too much. Scrunched-up toes may give power on overhangs, but make it harder to smear on slabs and volumes.

Taking Care of Your Shoe Rubber

Climbing shoe rubber can last longer if you treat it right:

• Clean often – Brush off dust, chalk, or dirt that reduces friction. A damp cloth after sessions helps keep rubber sticky.
• Avoid heat – Don’t leave shoes in the sun or a hot car. Heat breaks down rubber faster.
• Use them for climbing only – Walking around in them on rough ground grinds the rubber away unnecessarily.
• Resole when needed – A good resole can give your shoes a second life. Don’t wait until you’ve worn a hole through the toe—resole when the rubber is thin but before the rand is damaged.

Final Thoughts

The right rubber can transform your climbing experience. Whether you need the sensitivity of soft rubber, the edging strength of stiff rubber, or something in between, knowing your options will help you make smarter shoe choices. Take care of your rubber, and it’ll take care of your climbing.

And if you’re ready to upgrade your climbing shoes, come by Boulder Planet Showroom to check out our range—your perfect pair might just be waiting for you.