Adidas 5.10 Hiangles

 

Intro

Adidas’s Hiangles (2020) stands as the brand’s premium high-performance climbing shoes, favored by top athletes like Janja Garnbret, Will Bosi, and Giuliano Cameroni. These shoes have become a common sight on the feet of IFSC athletes, and their versatility and support make them a valuable addition to any climber’s shoe collection, be it for bouldering, sport climbing, indoor, or outdoor.

Design

The Hiangles feature an aggressively downturned and asymmetric design, with ample Stealth C4 rubber covering both the toe and heel sections. This shoe incorporates a slingshot rand, extending from the top of the heel to the bottom of the midsole, adding power and support to the otherwise flexible split sole construction. The 3.5 mm thick sole strikes a balance between sensitivity and support, similar to the Instinct VSRs (the blue ones).

Out of the Box

Fresh out of the box, these shoes exhibit a noticeable stiffness. The clean edge provides an excellent surface for precise footwork. Impressively, the break-in period for the Hiangles is relatively short, taking approximately three weeks to achieve a softer, more adhesive feel. Once broken in, they excel on volumes and smears, while still maintaining their edging capabilities. These shoes also prove their worth on steep overhangs that demand precise footwork.

 

Toe-box / Toe-hooking 

With extensive rubber coverage, the Hiangles offer a reliable grip for toe hooking and a bit of extra security for scums. The synthetic upper limits stretch compared to traditional leather shoes. This detail is essential to consider when selecting the right shoe size. The elastic slipper design with a velcro closure system, though slightly challenging when brand new, delivers a comfortable, sock-like feel once broken in.

Heel/Heel Hooking

The heel of the Hiangles is a standout feature, entirely covered in sticky rubber, except for two slots on either side. It excels both indoors and outdoors, providing exceptional grip and confidence on holds. This rubbery coverage ensures stability on various surfaces, from tiny screw-on crimps to sloping angles, making heel hooking a breeze.

 

Fit

Designed for performance, the Hiangles aren’t intended for all-day comfort. The pronounced downturn in the front may take some time to adapt to. While suitable for short bursts of wear, extended use can lead to discomfort. The toe box offers a snug fit, eliminating dead space, even for those with wider feet. The slightly aggressive heel design works well for climbers with narrower heels. When it comes to sizing, it’s advisable not to downsize excessively from your street shoe size, as 5.10 now aligns its sizing with street shoe measurements, and the synthetic material doesn’t stretch significantly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Hiangles stand as exceptional all-around climbing shoes. They excel on steep overhangs, deliver superb smearing capabilities, and empower climbers to maximize their footwork. While they may not be the ultimate choice for all situations, they certainly excel in their intended applications. Ideal for both indoor and outdoor climbing, the Hiangles warrant serious consideration for your next climbing shoe purchase.