UKC

I constantly see reference to "big boots" on the forum - usually in reference to what someone was wearing when they climbed something they're embarrassed to admit to without further qualification.

A genuine question - what are big boots specifically, and how do they differ from small or normal boots?

In reply to wayno265: It generally means B-rated mountain boots that you'd normally go Alpine climbing, winter climbing or walking in rather than rock climbing.

In reply to wayno265:

So walking boots, rather than climbing boots...

In reply to tlm:

Surely the term 'big boot' simply refers to a stiff climbing boot which you can stand on an edge with and fit a crampon to.

My pair of Sportiva Makalus would seem to fit the description.

Matt

In reply to wayno265: You occasionally see references to "bendy boots" - this is for routes the climber would be embarassed to even wear "big boots" on. Probably around the same level as trainers, one down from flipflops.

I just put "wasn't even trying" when I want to make it clear that I can do far better. Alas I'm sh1t at climbing so this doesn't happen very often. Never, in fact. Oh well!

In reply to wayno265: Big boots used to refer to ALL stiff and flexible boots that were not dedicated rock boots. Indeed we sometimes referred to walking/flexible boots as bendy boots. As in "we did such and such a route in bendy boots"

See you in a couple of hours.

Al

In reply to wayno265:

You do occasionally see this, and it always makes me smile. It's a form of snobbishness. However, I do sometimes note that I have climbed a route in 'big boots' (my B3s, or sometimes my B1 walking boots) because it does result in a different climbing experience, and sometimes requires different techniques.

As a general rule, for routes well within my ability I will tend to prefer climbing in 'big boots' or approach shoes simply because you can also walk in them as well.


Traditionally the distinction meant nailed mountain boots vs. tennis shoes, pumps or the like. It has evolved into its current meaning of B3 mountain boots vs. rock shoes over the years. Nowadays the difference in technique is narrower, as all mountain footwear regardless of design or weight have rubber soles.

In reply to wayno265: There is apparently a boulder problem somewhere that is far easier in big boots due to their hard plasticy edges.

In reply to wayno265:

ive always thought it meant BIG boots - high altitude things like olympus mons etc.

In reply to wayno265:
It would be a great username, but you'd have to be very big or very small to make it work.

In reply to Roberttaylor:

There is a route at Peel Crag,Fissure -Le-Boot, which is described in the Northumberland guidebook as
A 20ft crack,seven inches in width, the crack is easier if done in boots. Vs 4c.
David