Just a tad softer than the Instinct, Scarpa tune up the slipper design with a single strap and Vibram XS Edge rubber to resist deformation when standing on micro-flakes and edges. The Instinct VS spans the performance arc from slabby boulder problems to overhanging gym routes. Sensitivity, with just enough power from the Bi-Tension randing for standing on dimes; these do it all. Bi-TensionBasically, a reverse slingshot rand that's anchored under the critical toe area and connects directly to the heel rand, only there's nothing basic about it. The patent-pending system actively pulls power from the toes, rather than cramming your toes painfully forward, giving immediate performance with less tension. And that means less rubber, making your shoes lighter, more sensitive and more reactive. Vibram XS EdgeDeveloped to provide maximum edging support, the VIBRAM XS Edge compound delivers excellent pure grip while adding improved firmness for the most challenging edging moves. Thanks to an improved resistance to plastic distortion, it keeps its shape even after hours of use, maintains consistent feel in both hot and cold temperatures, and is formulated for improved durability. Vibram XS Grip² This sole is used where pure grip is needed! Shoes with this sole are therefore indispensable for competitions or in overhanging routes.
Just a tad softer than the Instinct, Scarpa tune up the slipper design with a single strap and Vibram XS Edge rubber to resist deformation when standing on micro-flakes and edges. The Instinct VS spans the performance arc from slabby boulder problems to overhanging gym routes. Sensitivity, with just enough power from the Bi-Tension randing for standing on dimes; these do it all. Bi-TensionBasically, a reverse slingshot rand that's anchored under the critical toe area and connects directly to the heel rand, only there's nothing basic about it. The patent-pending system actively pulls power from the toes, rather than cramming your toes painfully forward, giving immediate performance with less tension. And that means less rubber, making your shoes lighter, more sensitive and more reactive. Vibram XS EdgeDeveloped to provide maximum edging support, the VIBRAM XS Edge compound delivers excellent pure grip while adding improved firmness for the most challenging edging moves. Thanks to an improved resistance to plastic distortion, it keeps its shape even after hours of use, maintains consistent feel in both hot and cold temperatures, and is formulated for improved durability. Vibram XS Grip² This sole is used where pure grip is needed! Shoes with this sole are therefore indispensable for competitions or in overhanging routes.
Just a tad softer than the Instinct, Scarpa tune up the slipper design with a single strap and Vibram XS Edge rubber to resist deformation when standing on micro-flakes and edges. The Instinct VS spans the performance arc from slabby boulder problems to overhanging gym routes. Sensitivity, with just enough power from the Bi-Tension randing for standing on dimes; these do it all. Bi-TensionBasically, a reverse slingshot rand that's anchored under the critical toe area and connects directly to the heel rand, only there's nothing basic about it. The patent-pending system actively pulls power from the toes, rather than cramming your toes painfully forward, giving immediate performance with less tension. And that means less rubber, making your shoes lighter, more sensitive and more reactive. Vibram XS EdgeDeveloped to provide maximum edging support, the VIBRAM XS Edge compound delivers excellent pure grip while adding improved firmness for the most challenging edging moves. Thanks to an improved resistance to plastic distortion, it keeps its shape even after hours of use, maintains consistent feel in both hot and cold temperatures, and is formulated for improved durability. Vibram XS Grip² This sole is used where pure grip is needed! Shoes with this sole are therefore indispensable for competitions or in overhanging routes.
Just a tad softer than the Instinct, Scarpa tune up the slipper design with a single strap and Vibram XS Edge rubber to resist deformation when standing on micro-flakes and edges. The Instinct VS spans the performance arc from slabby boulder problems to overhanging gym routes. Sensitivity, with just enough power from the Bi-Tension randing for standing on dimes; these do it all. Bi-TensionBasically, a reverse slingshot rand that's anchored under the critical toe area and connects directly to the heel rand, only there's nothing basic about it. The patent-pending system actively pulls power from the toes, rather than cramming your toes painfully forward, giving immediate performance with less tension. And that means less rubber, making your shoes lighter, more sensitive and more reactive. Vibram XS EdgeDeveloped to provide maximum edging support, the VIBRAM XS Edge compound delivers excellent pure grip while adding improved firmness for the most challenging edging moves. Thanks to an improved resistance to plastic distortion, it keeps its shape even after hours of use, maintains consistent feel in both hot and cold temperatures, and is formulated for improved durability. Vibram XS Grip² This sole is used where pure grip is needed! Shoes with this sole are therefore indispensable for competitions or in overhanging routes.
Last updated at 05/15/2026 10:00:14
Scarpa Instinct VS - Black
Delivery $29.25
Scarpa Mens Instinct Velcro Rockshoe | Mens Rockclimbing Shoe NZ Black / EU 41.5
Delivery $28.63
Instinct VS 41½ / Black
Delivery $64.90
Scarpa 70013-000 Instinct Vs Climbing Shoes Black EU 41 1/2
Delivery $28.99
Scarpa Instinct VS - The Climbing Shop 41.5
Free delivery
Scarpa Instinct VS Mens Shoes - Black - EU41.5/US8.5
Free delivery
Scarpa Instinct VS Climbing Shoe - Black/Orange
Free delivery between Tue – Thu
Scarpa Instinct VS Climbing Shoe (EU Size: 41.5)
Free delivery between 18–25 May
originally posted on backcountry.com
When shopping for my next pair of aggressive bouldering shoes, I found that my heel would slip slightly out of the shoe when aggressively pointing my toes. the instinct is the first and only shoe I found that didnt do this.I also have extremely wide feet, and these do not bind my toes together like I found that many other shoes did. however, they are slightly shallow in height, so every once in a while I have to pop my heel out because I felt pressure from the toe rubber pushing down right on top of the knuckle of my big toe.they are decently stiff, which is good for me because I weigh ~190 pounds. BUT, dont let the sx edge rubber scare you; I have not noticed that they are slippery when smearing on volumes. They still grip quite well for heavier climbers, while ... MoreWhen shopping for my next pair of aggressive bouldering shoes, I found that my heel would slip slightly out of the shoe when aggressively pointing my toes. the instinct is the first and only shoe I found that didnt do this.I also have extremely wide feet, and these do not bind my toes together like I found that many other shoes did. however, they are slightly shallow in height, so every once in a while I have to pop my heel out because I felt pressure from the toe rubber pushing down right on top of the knuckle of my big toe.they are decently stiff, which is good for me because I weigh ~190 pounds. BUT, dont let the sx edge rubber scare you; I have not noticed that they are slippery when smearing on volumes. They still grip quite well for heavier climbers, while still being sensitive enough for overhangs and roof problems. the toe is very pointed and quite precise, which is good for improving your footwork.I've come to realize I prefer one big velcro strap over more intricate lacing systems, like the la sportiva solution lace or the evolv phantom lacing system. I feel like a big strong velcro strap locks my heel down into the shoe better than thinner laces. That's just my opinion though; I know that others disagree.Now for sizing: take this with a grain of salt, since I have quite wide feet and I have never been able to downsize aggressively like other people on forums say they do. My street shoe is US 11 (sometimes 11.5). I got the instinct in EU 43.5, which equals US 10 1/3. I could probably size down to a 10 for ULTIMATE tightness, but im sorta a baby and dont like cramming my feet into super tight shoes. With the 43.5, my toes are slightly curled, toes touching the front, but do not feel like theyre suffocating. Good mix of performance and comfort, and I can wear them for several attempts before popping them off.For other reference, I tried the Evolv Phantom in size US 11.5, which was my comfort fit where I could where them for longer periods of time without having to take them off, and in size US 11, where I pretty much had to take them off after every boulder problem I tried, because they were too tight.Sizing was a huge problem when I was shopping for new shoes, so hopefully this helps anyone that is interested in the instincts!
originally posted on altitude-sports.com
I got the instincts recently in both the men’s and women’s versions (I wanted the men’s for outdoors because they have the harder XS Edge rubber and the women’s for indoor because of the softer XS Grip 2 rubber).I wear a size 8 (41) street shoe and got the men’s in 41 and the women’s in 41.5 since they’re lower volume (and in case anyone is interested in sizing between men’s and women’s, that half size difference seems to make them fit very similarly). The fit is pretty good, though definitely snug, and there is some pain through the break in period.So far, they seem like a good shoe, but the break in period is long. After probably 5-7 indoor climbing days, I still get pain on my big toes and have to tape them to be able to wear the shoes with reasonable comfort. ... MoreI got the instincts recently in both the men’s and women’s versions (I wanted the men’s for outdoors because they have the harder XS Edge rubber and the women’s for indoor because of the softer XS Grip 2 rubber).I wear a size 8 (41) street shoe and got the men’s in 41 and the women’s in 41.5 since they’re lower volume (and in case anyone is interested in sizing between men’s and women’s, that half size difference seems to make them fit very similarly). The fit is pretty good, though definitely snug, and there is some pain through the break in period.So far, they seem like a good shoe, but the break in period is long. After probably 5-7 indoor climbing days, I still get pain on my big toes and have to tape them to be able to wear the shoes with reasonable comfort. From the reviews I’ve read online, apparently it will get better, but some people said it takes as many as 20 wears to get a true break in.Other than that, I find I get pretty good performance from the shoe. Good edging and pretty good grip (probably slightly better with the women’s version), thought my feet feel a little clumsy as I wait for the shoes to break in more. Smearing isn’t great, but I suppose that’s expected in a shoe that is a bit more aggressive.Overall, I’m pretty happy with the shoe, and hoping they break in a bit better.
originally posted on mec.ca
These were my first pair of shoes after my beginner shoes so I haven't tried many different shoes yet but I love these shoes. The toebox gives me a lot more confidence so I can "trust my feet" on small little holds. With them being an aggressive shoe they do great on overhang stuff as well. The only thing currently I've found where they don't excel is on volumes with dynamic jumping, which is just due to them being aggressive so you don't have as much of your foot on the volume/hold.Be warned though if you're going from a beginner shoe to these be ready for your feet to hurt. Mine killed me the first few times. They still hurt when wearing them now that they're broken in but it's much more managable. As others have said the shoes don't stretch due to their ... MoreThese were my first pair of shoes after my beginner shoes so I haven't tried many different shoes yet but I love these shoes. The toebox gives me a lot more confidence so I can "trust my feet" on small little holds. With them being an aggressive shoe they do great on overhang stuff as well. The only thing currently I've found where they don't excel is on volumes with dynamic jumping, which is just due to them being aggressive so you don't have as much of your foot on the volume/hold.Be warned though if you're going from a beginner shoe to these be ready for your feet to hurt. Mine killed me the first few times. They still hurt when wearing them now that they're broken in but it's much more managable. As others have said the shoes don't stretch due to their material so I would suggest trying them on first.
| Closing System | Velcro |
| Climbing Shoe Use | Boulder, Crag, Gym |
| Climbing Shoe Sole Type | Half Sole |
| Climbing Shoe Technology | Bi-Tension |
| Shoe Downturn | Aggressive |
Scarpa Instinct VS - Black
Delivery $29.25
Scarpa Mens Instinct Velcro Rockshoe | Mens Rockclimbing Shoe NZ Black / EU 41.5
Delivery $28.63
Instinct VS 41½ / Black
Delivery $64.90
Scarpa 70013-000 Instinct Vs Climbing Shoes Black EU 41 1/2
Delivery $28.99
Scarpa Instinct VS - The Climbing Shop 41.5
Free delivery
When shopping for my next pair of aggressive bouldering shoes, I found that my heel would slip slightly out of the shoe when aggressively pointing my toes. the instinct is the first and only shoe I found that didnt do this.I also have extremely wide feet, and these do not bind my toes together like I found that many other shoes did. however, they are slightly shallow in height, so every once in a while I have to pop my heel out because I felt pressure from the toe rubber pushing down right on top of the knuckle of my big toe.they are decently stiff, which is good for me because I weigh ~190 pounds. BUT, dont let the sx edge rubber scare you; I have not noticed that they are slippery when smearing on volumes. They still grip quite well for heavier climbers, while ... MoreWhen shopping for my next pair of aggressive bouldering shoes, I found that my heel would slip slightly out of the shoe when aggressively pointing my toes. the instinct is the first and only shoe I found that didnt do this.I also have extremely wide feet, and these do not bind my toes together like I found that many other shoes did. however, they are slightly shallow in height, so every once in a while I have to pop my heel out because I felt pressure from the toe rubber pushing down right on top of the knuckle of my big toe.they are decently stiff, which is good for me because I weigh ~190 pounds. BUT, dont let the sx edge rubber scare you; I have not noticed that they are slippery when smearing on volumes. They still grip quite well for heavier climbers, while still being sensitive enough for overhangs and roof problems. the toe is very pointed and quite precise, which is good for improving your footwork.I've come to realize I prefer one big velcro strap over more intricate lacing systems, like the la sportiva solution lace or the evolv phantom lacing system. I feel like a big strong velcro strap locks my heel down into the shoe better than thinner laces. That's just my opinion though; I know that others disagree.Now for sizing: take this with a grain of salt, since I have quite wide feet and I have never been able to downsize aggressively like other people on forums say they do. My street shoe is US 11 (sometimes 11.5). I got the instinct in EU 43.5, which equals US 10 1/3. I could probably size down to a 10 for ULTIMATE tightness, but im sorta a baby and dont like cramming my feet into super tight shoes. With the 43.5, my toes are slightly curled, toes touching the front, but do not feel like theyre suffocating. Good mix of performance and comfort, and I can wear them for several attempts before popping them off.For other reference, I tried the Evolv Phantom in size US 11.5, which was my comfort fit where I could where them for longer periods of time without having to take them off, and in size US 11, where I pretty much had to take them off after every boulder problem I tried, because they were too tight.Sizing was a huge problem when I was shopping for new shoes, so hopefully this helps anyone that is interested in the instincts!
I got the instincts recently in both the men’s and women’s versions (I wanted the men’s for outdoors because they have the harder XS Edge rubber and the women’s for indoor because of the softer XS Grip 2 rubber).I wear a size 8 (41) street shoe and got the men’s in 41 and the women’s in 41.5 since they’re lower volume (and in case anyone is interested in sizing between men’s and women’s, that half size difference seems to make them fit very similarly). The fit is pretty good, though definitely snug, and there is some pain through the break in period.So far, they seem like a good shoe, but the break in period is long. After probably 5-7 indoor climbing days, I still get pain on my big toes and have to tape them to be able to wear the shoes with reasonable comfort. ... MoreI got the instincts recently in both the men’s and women’s versions (I wanted the men’s for outdoors because they have the harder XS Edge rubber and the women’s for indoor because of the softer XS Grip 2 rubber).I wear a size 8 (41) street shoe and got the men’s in 41 and the women’s in 41.5 since they’re lower volume (and in case anyone is interested in sizing between men’s and women’s, that half size difference seems to make them fit very similarly). The fit is pretty good, though definitely snug, and there is some pain through the break in period.So far, they seem like a good shoe, but the break in period is long. After probably 5-7 indoor climbing days, I still get pain on my big toes and have to tape them to be able to wear the shoes with reasonable comfort. From the reviews I’ve read online, apparently it will get better, but some people said it takes as many as 20 wears to get a true break in.Other than that, I find I get pretty good performance from the shoe. Good edging and pretty good grip (probably slightly better with the women’s version), thought my feet feel a little clumsy as I wait for the shoes to break in more. Smearing isn’t great, but I suppose that’s expected in a shoe that is a bit more aggressive.Overall, I’m pretty happy with the shoe, and hoping they break in a bit better.
These were my first pair of shoes after my beginner shoes so I haven't tried many different shoes yet but I love these shoes. The toebox gives me a lot more confidence so I can "trust my feet" on small little holds. With them being an aggressive shoe they do great on overhang stuff as well. The only thing currently I've found where they don't excel is on volumes with dynamic jumping, which is just due to them being aggressive so you don't have as much of your foot on the volume/hold.Be warned though if you're going from a beginner shoe to these be ready for your feet to hurt. Mine killed me the first few times. They still hurt when wearing them now that they're broken in but it's much more managable. As others have said the shoes don't stretch due to their ... MoreThese were my first pair of shoes after my beginner shoes so I haven't tried many different shoes yet but I love these shoes. The toebox gives me a lot more confidence so I can "trust my feet" on small little holds. With them being an aggressive shoe they do great on overhang stuff as well. The only thing currently I've found where they don't excel is on volumes with dynamic jumping, which is just due to them being aggressive so you don't have as much of your foot on the volume/hold.Be warned though if you're going from a beginner shoe to these be ready for your feet to hurt. Mine killed me the first few times. They still hurt when wearing them now that they're broken in but it's much more managable. As others have said the shoes don't stretch due to their material so I would suggest trying them on first.
These are my first intermediate shoe and they are incredibly capable. Was climbing on a pair of trantulace’s and it is night and day. These are great shoes for a wider foot with bunions. Preforms great on overhangs and edges in the gym and bouldering. I wear a size 42.5 street and sized down to 42. Going to try a size 41.5 to see if the heel will fit better. Heel is pretty loose after breakin. The breakin takes a while, about maybe 10-15 sessions. Pain is manageable but needs to be noted. Just slip out of them when you’re not on the wall. I’ve gotten about 4 months out of them climbing 2-3 times a week before sending them in for a resole. Would be even better if the heel fit like a glove, just a little too loose for me. Great capable shoe for wider feet.
I upgraded to these from wearing la sportiva because I wanted something with better toeing and heel hooking as my climbing has become more intermediate. I've worn them about 5-6 times bouldering indoor and they are honestly more comfortable compared to what reviews had said to break in. These are the mens versions, but I'm a girl and just chose these over the girls version for convenience and they seem fine. I have not climbed in these outdoors so I can't speak on that. Overall pretty comfortable shoe that you will notice makes a difference in sending those more difficult problems you can't in more beginner shoes. A con I noticed is that my big toe seems to stab/bulge the top of the shoe, which hearing from someone else said the same. I sized down a half size.
I was a die-hard Solution fan. Wore several pair of the old Solution and a pair of the new. I had the Solutions straps keep breaking on me, so I switched to this shoe, the Scarpa Instinct VS and I'm very happy. Feel very similar to the Solution. Straps much better. This is my new go-to shoe. I use it for Bouldering and Sport.Old solution: 43New solution: 42.5Instinct VS: 43.5These loosen up quite a bit after just a session or 2. So I may try size 43 next time, but these are great, even if not super tight.
This is my favourite pair of climbing shoes. Got these on sale for when my current pair of instincts is finished.As a big guy I appreciate how rigid the soles are. Even at around 100kg I can use small foot holds without putting too much strain on my toes.The single strap design makes these the easiest shoes to get in and out of.Climbing shoes sizes are rarely realistic and these shoes are no exception. I find them about 2 sizes too small. On my 46 size feet I found the 48 to be the right fit.
I read reviews on this shoe and bought a pair to check out for bouldering and general purpose. I never got out of the house with them because they're super uncomfortable (for me at least). They're touted as "moderately aggressive", but they put my foot into an extreme arch and wouldn't be comfortable at all between climbs, that much I can say for sure. They may be great for advanced climbers, but this intermediate one thinks it would create an un-fun situation. YMMV!Note that backcountry.com got it right - aggressive. Scarpa themselves calls it "moderately downturned", as do most review sites. Bravo, backcountry.com!
These shoes are so good, I don't even mind that there's no room for my big toe. I typically go for 43.5 in climbing shoes, but since the reviews said they run large I went with a 43. That was probably a mistake, but they are slowly but surely stretching to my feet. It's really only in my left big toe that its a problem. Perhaps its just my cartoonishly large digits.the best feature is the large amounts of top rubber on the top of the toe. you'll break some beta with these. the kind of weird smearing you can do with softer shoes doesn't work so well, but they still do just fine in gyms on volumes etc. you just have to be more technique conscious.
Bouldering in these for a couple of months now, and love them. The heel is as bit large on me, as I have thin heels I guess, but it has never slipped off my foot or held me back from heel hooks. Fantastic for edging, toe hooks, and heel hooks. A dedicated soft shoe would be marginally better for smearing, but these perform extraordinarily well considering how good they are at everything else. Would recommend.
| Closing System | Velcro |
| Climbing Shoe Use | Boulder, Crag, Gym |
| Climbing Shoe Sole Type | Half Sole |
| Climbing Shoe Technology | Bi-Tension |
| Shoe Downturn | Aggressive |
