Our verdict

90
Great!

The Black Diamond Aspect a slab- and edge-master in this crack-efficient piece. Despite its excellence, its lackluster surface traction sticks out like a sore thumb. In conclusion, this climbing shoe shines in the areas advertised by BD.

Pros

  • Black Diamond climbing shoes
  • Excellent edging performance and durable
  • Laser precision
  • Long-wearing and prevents backward stretch
  • The Aspect is a low-top shoe while the TC Pro is a mid-top one

Cons

  • Comfortable climbing shoe
  • Questionable durability

Excellent edging performance and durable

Buyers who are looking for a climbing shoe that balances comfort and performance might find one in the Black Diamond Aspect. It is a solid option if you:

  • Prefer a climbing shoe that is great for all-day use, cracks, slabs, and edging. 
  • Excellent performance on cracks.

Black Diamond Aspect logo

Lack of stickiness

The outsole unit of this Black Diamond climbing shoe is a 4.3 mm NeoFriction Edge rubber. Designers specifically built this for edging. This component is molded, making the shoe durable.

Black Diamond Aspect outsole

Flexible cushioning

The Aspect climbing shoe from BD features a medium-stiff midsole. This flexibility allows the user to jam the foot into cracks. 

Black Diamond Aspect midsole

Black Diamond Aspect

It also provides a kind of underfoot support that doesn’t compromise sensitivity.

Black Diamond Aspect arch support

Effective slab performance

Black Diamond’s Aspect is made of high-grade European leather to make the shoe long-wearing. At the heel is a rand that maintains the structure of the shoe by preventing a backward stretch. At the same time, it pushes the foot forward so that the force is kept on the toes (useful for tackling cracks). 

Black Diamond Aspect upper 

Black Diamond Aspect upper 1

Eastern Mountain Sports

The tongue of this shoe features Engineered Knit Technology for breathability. It also serves as an additional layer of protection when jamming. Another shield from jamming is the Internal Lace Protection system. The upper covers a portion of the closure so that the lace won’t get damaged during crack climbs.

Black Diamond Aspect upper 3

Secure fit

Black Diamond Aspect.

Black Diamond Aspect laces

Long-wearing and prevents backward stretch

Users have often compared the Aspect to the TC Pro because both provide edging performance and components for crack climbing. Below are some of the differences between the two:

Construction. The Aspect is a low-top shoe while the TC Pro is a mid-top one.

Outsole. Black Diamond’s offering uses the brand’s proprietary rubber. On the other hand, La Sportiva uses the Vibram XS Edge. Both provide edging performance.