Scarpa Eclipse ($109):
Lace up the right climbing shoe and you acquire Spider-Man's verve, able to find friction on featureless vertical and turn cracks into thoroughfares. While there are lots of deserved choices out there, the Scarpa Eclipse gets some serious nods—like, let's see, from the rock jocks at Rock & Ice magazine who voted the Eclipse "Best All Around Value" for footwear. This sticky specimen is impeccable for entry-level climbers, with a flat last that's supportive, flexible, and quite content on sport, trad, or gym climbs. The polypropylene midsole breaks in quickly, yet provides enough stability to keep your feet from flaking out on long climbs and edgy routes. For style mavens, it's worth noting that the Eclipse exudes a progressive form that doesn't shout "novice"—not a bad quality when the climbing gym is packed with hotshots half your age. At just over a C note, consider the Eclipse a "does-it-all" climber that's a steal. Contact 801-278-5533, www.blackdiamondequipment.com.
Climbing: The Shoes | 
