Who should buy the Five Ten NIAD VCS

The Five Ten NIAD VCS is the latest evolution in climbing shoes built with Five Ten´s iconic heritage and legendary performance. Climbers stated that this climbing shoe helps them to push their limits. They mentioned that it offers sufficient power for edging and sensitivity for smears. Climbers were also amazed at its out-of-the-box, all-day comfort and standard-setting performance.

Five Ten NIAD VCS logo

Who should not buy the Five Ten NIAD VCS

Climbers stated that the rubber around the shoe’s big toe loses its pointiness easily and it is not great for overhung terrain. If you are looking for a climbing shoe that offers climbing precision without sacrificing comfort, you might want to check out the Evolv Rave.

Five Ten NIAD VCS logo 1

Notable Features

  • Tension transfer from the heel to the forefoot provides edging performance on even the smallest of holds.
  • Stealth® C4™ rubber offers a time-tested, high-friction grip for edging and hard friction.
  • Moderately stiff midsole supports all-purpose climbing while maintaining sensitivity.
  • Easy on and off with snug fit thanks to a dual hook-and-loop closure.

Excellent edging performance

Climbers mentioned that the tension transfer from the heel to the forefoot provides edging performance on even the smallest of holds.

Five Ten NIAD VCS outsole

High-Friction grip

Climbers see that it is grippy and durable. They mentioned that it provides plenty of grip on smears. They also stated that it provides awesome edging capabilities, so you'll be scaling any wall with confidence. 

Five Ten NIAD VCS grip

Incredible underfoot sensitivity

With its low-profile midsole, climbers commended this shoe because it offers greater sensitivity underfoot. They really 'feel' the rock underfoot, making for a better climb. They mentioned that it ensures your foot with enough support and in the right places.

Five Ten NIAD VCS midsole

Sticky toe rubber

Climbers stated that this shoe has a straight construction. It trades toeing power for enhanced smearing prowess. Also, climbers mentioned that the shoe's sticky toe rubber covers almost the entire forefoot and gives them more toe-hooking coverage. 

Five Ten NIAD VCS uper

Comfortable and snug fit

The Five Ten Niad VCS uses a synthetic upper which climbers mentioned that it provides comfort and support, wrapping around the foot nicely without slipping.

Five Ten NIAD VCS upper 2

Also, climbers stated that the textile lining wicks away moisture and evaporates it quickly to ensure the foot remains comfortable. 

Additional Info

  • NIAD actually stands for “Nose in a Day.” The nose is a popular big wall on El Capitan, which climbers all over the world attempt to send “in a day” as a rite of passage.
  • NIAD VCS is launched alongside two other kicks: The NIAD Moccasym and the NIAD Lace.

Facts / Specs

Weight: Men 9.1oz / Women 6.9oz
Closure: Velcro
Fit: Comfort fit
Downturn: Neutral
Environment: Indoor, Outdoor
Material: Fabric/Textile, Synthetic

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Author
Teddy Dondanville
Teddy Dondanville

Teddy is a professionally trained Apprentice Rock Guide with the American Mountain Guides Association and a Wilderness First Responder with the National Outdoor Leadership School. Besides guiding outdoor rock climbing, Teddy also has years of experience in route setting and coaching climbing indoors. Through his guiding, route setting, and coaching, Teddy has experimented with climbing shoes for over a decade.