So ILL – Free Range Pro – Climbing Shoes

Those looking for a stylish performance climbing shoe without too many frills should take a closer look at the Free Range Pro by Southern Illinois (So iLL). Made in the USA is the motto here – which is evident not least in its strong similarity to Hiangle by Five Ten.

The Free Range Pro is the logical next step in the development of the popular Free Range. And that was already quite a beast on the climbing wall. In short: The Free Range Pro offers maximum traction thanks to its Dark Matter rubber blend. The two-part outsole ensures that it stays relatively soft in the midfoot area at the same time (compared to the heel and the forefoot – these are reinforced). This “extra” rubber not only ensures greater durability but also runs from the toes over the instep, ensuring wide traction when hooking. A certain rigidity of the toe box when hooking the toes on an overhang is of course a must.

As is evident already at first glance with the “”Free Range Pro”, it wants to play its part when it comes to high levels of difficulty. And it succeeds with flying colours. Its aggressive downturn applies significant pressure to small footholds and ledges. The heel tension therefore does not come as a surprise. Those who like setting hooks and planning difficult bouldering and therefore demand the greatest traction of their climbing shoes, are well served with the Free Range Pro by So iLL!

Note about sizing: The Free Range Pro comes as a unisex model. The manufacturer’s recommendation is orientated towards the degree of climbing difficulty.

• Men who are at a maximum of grade eight (UIAA) choose the shoes in their usual shoe size.
• Women who are at a maximum of grade eight (UIAA) choose the shoes in their usual shoe size.
• Men who are in upper grade eight (UIAA) and higher, choose the shoes half a size smaller than their usual shoe size.
• Women who are in upper grade eight (UIAA) and higher, choose the shoes half a size smaller than their usual shoe size.