CLIMBING SHOES - EDGE SOFT WHITE/BLACK

In 2023, we designed a version of the EDGE Soft shoe specifically for Mickael Mawen (bouldering world champion - 2023) to meet his needs as a top-level athlete.The design of the EDGE soft shoe (the commercial version) incorporates many of the tried and tested construction elements of Michael Mawen's shoe. These range from elements of the upper or footbed to certain details such as the closure system or laser cuts in the rubber.

To be precise on small holds, this shoe has an asymmetrical, arched and pointed shape.A pre-tensioned rear elastomer tensioner pushes the foot continuously forward. This allows the force to be concentrated on the toes (especially the big toe) for greater precision.The design of the elastomer tightener has been designed so that the footbed is pressed under the arch of the foot for even greater strength and precision.

Flexibility maximises grip, particularly on large surfaces.But to maintain edge strength (for example, when pushing against small holds), our designers have developed a specific polymer element to provide extra rigidity on the edges of the shoe.

For the outsole, we've selected XS GRIP Vibram® 4 mm rubber, renowned for its high-performance grip and abrasion resistance.Our designers have worked on a number of construction elements (bi-sole, V-notch under the metatarsals, thin, flexible midsole) to encourage the rubber to crush against the grip. This maximises grip.Lastly, rubber sections on the heel and top of the shoe provide excellent grip for heel and toe hooks.

To be effective, the upper of the shoe must fit snugly around the foot without causing pain.We have selected a synthetic microfibre with a brushed reverse side (PA/PU) that’s 1.8 mm thick and very slightly elastic to adapt to the volume of the foot. Although we use flat seams, we have limited their number during assembly.We created laser cut-outs on the rand rubber. This adds volume to the top of the foot if necessary, without creating pressure points.

Our designers have linked the closure system to the shoe's heel rand. This ensures a snug fit around the foot.A large, powerful hook and loop fastener locks the foot in place when you close it.

Is your sole worn out?Our Decathlon workshops offer a resoling service that is among the best on the market. We resole to the original shape of the shoe to guarantee its performance.With your sole replaced, you can climb once again with the shoe already moulded to your feet.Please note: when you see synthetic leather through the rubber, you should stop using it and get the sole repaired. If you pierce the upper, resoling will not be possible.

If you are an intermediate climber, we recommend selecting a shoe size a little tighter than your everyday shoes (e.g. 1/2-1 size smaller) but it's important they don't hurt, so that your foot can develop mobility, proprioception, and strength.If you are an advanced climber, we suggest you take the time to try different sizes (1 to 2 sizes below normal) to find the best compromise between comfort and compression for more force when pushing off.