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Evolv Bandit Climbing Shoe

Men's Footwear > ClimbingRated: **** by 15 reviews.

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

The Evolv® Bandit Climbing Shoes are multipurpose lace-up performance shoes that help you excel at micro-edging, smearing, and crack climbing. Get all-around performance indoors and outdoors. This is the ideal shoe for intermediate to advanced climbers who like precision edging power.

Features:

  • Full-length speed-lacing design provides a precision-molded fit
  • Integrity webs on the side provide lateral support and resist stretch
  • Microfiber lining and padded tongue transports moisture and feels more comfortable
  • Synthratek™ synthetic leather upper is vegan friendly and won't stretchT.2 mm TRAX® XT-5 high-friction rubber sole; great traction, excellent durability, superior gripR.2mm TRAX® duro-rand ties the sole to the shoe for sensitivity and power
  • Teardrop-shaped MX-2 half-midsole adds edging power without sacrificing flexibility in the midsection
  • These shoes will not stretch; order a size that fits snugly, but not too tight; EVOLV shoes are scaled so your U.S. street shoe size will usually give a snug fit

Altrec

Built as the perfect multi-purpose performance lace-up shoe, the Evolv Bandit Climbing Shoe allows you to excel at micro-edging, smearing, and crack climbing. The full length speed-lacing design provides a precision molded fit with a quick pull of the laces. The integrity webs on the side provide better lateral support and a consistent non-stretch fit over time and the microfiber lining provides a comfortable feel and proves that performance shoes can feel great to climb in. The teardrop shaped MX-2 stiff half midsole of the Bandit adds edging power without sacrificing flexibility in the midsection. The Bandit is the ideal lace-up performance shoe for intermediate to advanced climbers who like precision edging power.

Features:

  • LINING: Microfiber lining
  • MIDSOLE: MX-2 2mm stiff teardrop shape half-length midsole
  • PROFILE:Asymmetrical toe profile (KA-1 last)
  • RAND: 2.2mm TRAX duro-rand
  • SOLE: 4.2 mm TRAX XT-5 high friction rubber
  • UPPER: Non-stretch Synthratek synthetic upper

Mountain Gear

Redesigned from its earlier iterations Evolv's Bandit Rock Shoe sports a double-layer, perforated upper that provides a super-strong structure while a close-fitting heel cup ensures a good fit. Climb cracks, smear, and micro-edge with ease with the 4.2 mm high friction rubber sole and Trax duro-rand, all while you enjoy the precision-fit created by the full-length speed lacing system.

Features:

  • Edge and smear comfortably with the additional 2.2 mm of TRAX duro-rand
  • Keep your feet comfortable in the soft, microfiber lining while an improved heel cup provides a better fit
  • Lace up quickly with the full-length speed-lacing design that gives you a precisely molded fit
  • Protect your toes with the MX-2 2 mm stiff teardrop shape half-length midsole, 4.2 mm high friction rubber sole
  • Support your feet with double-layer, non-stretch Synthratek uppers that are perforated for added ventilation - super-strong, this upper doesn't wear out quickly

Rock/Creek Outfitters

Evolve's Bandit climbing shoe is the perfect specimen as a multi-purpose performance lace-up shoe that allows you to excel at micro-edging, smearing, and crack climbing. The full length speed-lacing design provides a precision molded fit with a quick pull of the laces. The integrity webs on the side provide better lateral support and a consistent non-stretch fit over time and the microfiber lining provides a comfortable feel and proves that performance shoes can feel great to climb in.
The teardrop shaped MX-2 stiff half midsole adds edging power without sacrificing flexibility in the midsection. This is the ideal lace-up performance shoe for intermediate to advanced climbers who like precision edging power.

Features:

  • Comes in a cool RED color now
  • Midsole MX-2 2mm stiff teardrop shape half-length midsole
  • Profile Asymmetrical toe profile (KA-1 last)

Backcountry.com

From dime-sized edges to splitter cracks to high-angle jug hauls, the Evolv Bandit Climbing Shoe can do it all. The Bandit features a full-length speed lace that gives you a precise fit with a single pull. Webbed side panels help reduce excessive stretch and provide added lateral support. A stiff, half midsole gives you edging power while allowing mid-section flex for delicate smearing, and the ultra-sticky TRAX rubber sole ensures your forearms will blow out before your footing.

Asymmetrical Curvature:Medium
Avg. Weight (Pair):15 oz.
Lacing:Standard
Last:Slip
Lined:yes
Lining:Microfiber
Manufacturer Warranty:1 Year
Material:Synthratek synthetic
Recommended Use:All-around climbing
Sole:4.2 mm TRAX® XT-5 high friction rubber
Upper:Non-stretch Synthratek synthetic upper

View other products from Evolv classified in Men's Footwear > Climbing.

View all products from Evolv.
View other products classified in Men's Footwear > Climbing.

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Option Availability:

Use this chart to find which retailer offers this product in the size, color or other options that you desire. Click on the price to purchase.

SizeColor
Bandit Red / Bandit Grey
Bandit Red / Bandit Grey
Red
Red
Red / Black
Red / Black
N/A
4  98.9599.00 
4.5  98.9599.00 
5  98.9599.0059.98
5.5  98.9599.00 
698.95 98.9599.00 
6.598.95 98.9599.00 
798.9568.9598.9599.00 
7.598.9568.9598.9599.00 
898.9568.9598.9599.00 
8.598.95 98.9599.00 
9 68.9598.9599.00 
9.598.9568.9598.9599.00 
1098.9568.9598.9599.00 
10.598.9568.9598.9599.00 
1198.9568.9598.9599.00 
11.598.9568.9598.9599.00 
1298.95 98.9599.00 
12.598.95 98.9599.00 
13  98.9599.00 
13.5  99.00 

Legend

  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Rock/Creek Outfitters
  •     - Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - Altrec

Evolv Bandit Climbing Shoe Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****5
****7
***2
**1
*0
To see how this product compares to others view Men's Climbing Shoe Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

solid all-around performance

Rating:****
it seems a lot of the review here already addressed my main issue which is uncomfortability. Yes, this shoe tortured me for the first 3 mos. My street size is 9.5 and I got same exact 9.5 for the bandit but it feels like half size smaller. My toes were jammed up and under the heat and pressure from climbing i often give up and take it off. Now I've worn it for a year and - surprise, not only is it bearable but I'm actually really loving the surgical precision this shoe afforded. It's so perfect for micro edges as it sticks to the tiniest holds while the stiffness supports technical maneuvers. Although it doesnt stretch, it does mold to your feet after enough sweat permeated it. If you're a tech climber this shoe will keep up with you. If you're beginner you'd want to buy half size bigger than your street size. If you want performance stick with street size. My rand (toe) blew at around 11th month. I use this for bouldering and big walls both indoor and outdoor about 4 x / wk. At [$] this is a very good deal. Resole at evolv headquarter yosemitebum[@]
roksteddy at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 08/07/2008

I really like this shoe

Rating:*****
I have only been indoor climbing with this shoe so far, but I can't wait to get it outdoors. I switched from a pair of 5.10 coyote's. Initially I was scared to step away from the 5.10 rubber, but this shoe has exceeded expectations and the rubber is just as good if not better than the stealth c4 rubber. For me they are just a touch uncomfortable but I wanted to make sure that they were snug because my 5.10's were a little too big. These shoes work great for me smearing and edging, and I like the snugness. I wear a 12 in a New Balance sneaker and I ordered a 12 and it's great. I feel confident on tiny holds and I can't wait to get them in a crack. I have only climbed in them twice and I can already see an improvement. This is a great shoe.
Chalbert at Rock/Creek Outfitters on 04/06/2009

Best climbing shoes ever used

Rating:*****
About my fourth pair of shoes tried, was looking for a good overall shoe that can edge and smear well, work for sport / trad / bouldering. For me this is it, handles everything I've thrown at it. I got my normal street shoe size and after about 15 hours in them I'd say it's broken in slightly but not much. It may be my feet, for me the toe pinches slightly I can't leave them on too long before having to take off, but consider it an acceptable compromise given their performance. A performance shoe can only be worn so long anyway, I hope eventually I can wear for up to six hours.
Anonymous at Altrec on 08/18/2009

Consider the shape of your foot

Rating:****
I am still breaking these in, so nothing I say is my final word on this product. I would say, however, that I got a half size bigger than my street size, which works out well for most evolvs I've tried before. This is definitely a shoe more suited for someone whose big toe is smaller than their second toe. My big toes are by far bigger, and they are totally crushed, while my other toes come just up to the end. Still, it's a great improvement over my last shoes, and I've heard they might stretch a little, so I remain hopeful.
jrocket at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 01/02/2008

new shoes

Rating:****
i climb a lot indoors and only occasionally outdoors but these have done great bouldering indoors. the toe is aggressive enough for for some holes and cracks but they also allow me to smear it up. i am definitely happy with these shoes as these are the first ones i have purchased my first pair were hand me downs. i would recommend these. also i went to the rockcreek by greenlife and the staff there was super helpful, knowledgeable and nice. nathan did a good job helping me out and you guys matched the internet price. thanks for a positive buying experience.
palmer at Rock/Creek Outfitters on 10/13/2009

Great shoe

Rating:*****

These shoes smear and edge like nobody's bussiness, yet they are still aggressive and stiff enough to be able to hold a toe on small holds. I have mine sized very aggressively. I wear a size 12 street shoe and i have these in an 11. They hurt the first time i put them on, but after that they have performed very well and I can climb almost anything in them. I do however prefer a more aggressive shoe for anything more than a 60 degree overhang or roof.

elliott.grissom2289272 at Backcountry.com on 05/28/2009

new look, relaxed fit, still great shoe :)

Rating:*****
I've always liked the Bandit's all around performance and edging and now it's got a new hot look to it...perfect! I did notice the heel cup fits differently than the older one but that's not a bad thing at all. I really like it actually!
Anonymous at Altrec on 05/21/2009

Love these guys

Rating:*****

These shoes are great. They smear well, edge well, and can climb cracks. I would call them a proformance crack shoe. The lace up is also great, its fast and you can get the tightness you need.

I will for sure get these resoled.

Andrew Krosbakken at Backcountry.com on 03/04/2009

Great all-around shoe

Rating:****
These were an upgrade from my 5.10 coyotes. Much better edging, more aggressive shoe. Not as comfortable, but they break in quickly. I had to exchange for a 1/2 size larger bacause they were way too tight.
Jay at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 04/09/2009

Just starting out.

Rating:****
I am just starting out and this is the first pair of climbing shoes I've ever owned. I think they are great but I don't have any other shoe to compare them to.
TheBeginner at Rock/Creek Outfitters on 05/05/2009

Negative Reviews:

Good performance at quality's expense

Rating:**
I really wanted to enjoy these climbing shoes, which were my first pair of Evolv's. The performance aspect was great until the toe-rand just fell apart after a month of weekend outdoor climbing and some sessions in the gym. Granted my technique is not perfect, I expect climbing shoes to last at least a season. In this aspect I was quite disappointed.
Serge V. at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 06/08/2009

Neutral Reviews:

Smell Horrible

Rating:***

These were my first rock shoes (actually, the model before this--the black/gray ones). They perform fine; my problem is stink-retention. I don't have smelly fit. Never did. I was genetically spared from that curse. But these shoes...there's something about that eco-friendly suede they use that just retains food odor like none other. Even after airing out for a few days, it's still possible to smell the odor if you get close enough. I know I'm not alone on this. Other reviews of Evolv climbing shoes have noted the exact same stink issue.

Jesse Lind at Backcountry.com on 10/08/2009

Uncomfortable

Rating:***
I agree with a previous reviewer about the big toe being crushed. I have had these shoes for a year now and they are just recently getting more comfortable. I wear them indoors, mostly bouldering, for as long as I can stand the pain in my big toes, then I switch to a more comfortable shoe. Yesterday was the best they have felt, but now the toes are starting to wear thin. On the positive side, they edge very well.
Lean old man at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 07/09/2008