B5 Approach Shoe

Sticky and Solid

By Weekend Climber

from Red River Gorge, KY on 8/24/2009

Pros:

Great Traction, Shock-Absorbent, Stabilizes Foot

Best Uses:

Mixed Terrain, Rocky/Unstable Terrain

Describe Yourself:

ROCK CLIMBER

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about La Sportiva B5:

The first thing I noticed is how sticky these shoes are. The tread is great and it shows in the improved traction while off the trail. I have been climbing up to 5.10 in these shoes as long as the feet are big and blocky. The shoes smear well but don't hold on small edges.
Have not had them long enough to rate how well they will hold up to abuse day after day.

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low durability

By K

from SLC, UT on 6/26/2009

Pros:

Arch Support, Breathable, Comfortable/No Break-In, Great Traction, Shock-Absorbent, Stabilizes Foot

Cons:

Not Durable/Wears Easily

Best Uses:

At The Gym

Bottom Line:

No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Comments about La Sportiva B5:

Performance is definitely there but durability is abysmal. My first pair -stitching and leather around second eyelet tore not 30 seconds into my first approach with the brand new shoe. My second pair (replacement)- sole delaminated at toe on day 1. I fixed with bargs. got a couple more weeks out of them then red rubber caps on sole lugs delaminated. Next to go was the mesh lining at about 6 weeks. In the time in between returns and repair I thought they climbed and hiked quite nice the reason for 2 stars. Unfortunately I cannot afford time or money for something that lacks durability. For someone that does not care and can afford a few pair a year then go for it they climb great.

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Awesome shoe.

By mlow

from Anchorage, AK on 4/1/2009

Pros:

Great Traction, Shock-Absorbent, Stabilizes Foot

Best Uses:

Mixed Terrain, Rocky/Unstable Terrain

Describe Yourself:

Competitive Athlete

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about La Sportiva B5:

The rubber on this shoe is amazing.. Unlike the Cirque Pro or other Sportiva approach shoes, the rubber on the B5 doesn't compromise durability for traction. Super comfy, has a nice stiff edge for climbing. Great shoe for route setting, if you're into that kinda thing.

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Great shoe

By Rav

from Idaho on 1/20/2009

Pros:

Durable, Great Traction

Best Uses:

Mixed Terrain, Muddy Conditions, Rocky/Unstable Terrain

Bottom Line:

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend

Comments about La Sportiva B5:

Great shoe, it's gotten me to the top of Kilimanjaro three times. Just got back from Aconcagua where I used it on the three day approach to base camp. They have been great, just starting to stink really bad. The Aconcagua trip did them in.

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[1 of 1 customers found this review helpful]

sole delaminated

By log

from Berkeley, CA on 10/3/2008

Sizing:

Feels true to size

Width:

Feels true to width

Pros:

Comfortable, Lightweight, Non-slip sole, Stable

Cons:

Sole Wears Out Quickly

Best Uses:

Day hikes, Everyday

Describe Yourself:

Avid Adventurer

Bottom Line:

No, I would not recommend this to a friend

Comments about La Sportiva B5:

I used these shoes mostly for just daily kicking around shoe. 1st the sole started to delaminate, then the internal lining stated to tear and has big holes now. I've had shoe for about 6 months and I think these LaSportiva's should have lasted longer, yet I got no love from M-Gear. I was informed their satisfaction guarantee is only good for 1 month on footwear. But I digress, the B5 was comfy to wear, I really want to like them more, but they just dont last. I'll try scarpa or asolo for my next approach shoe.

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B5 Approach Shoe - Men's