Andrea Boldrini Apache Light Plus
Andrea Boldrini
The Apache Light Plus is a soft, aggressively downturned velcro shoe from Andrea Boldrini for sport climbing and trad and multi-pitch. Andrea Boldrini lists it as medium-width with a medium heel.
The aggressive sibling of the classic Apache Light, the Light Plus is built on a steeply downturned last for pulling on small holds on overhanging routes and roofs. It's the only shoe in Andrea Boldrini's range fitted with a Vibram Grip outsole - a soft, high-friction compound that bites on steep limestone pockets and granite crystals alike. X-tension rubber wraps over the toe for hooking power and lateral support, while a zig-zag velcro strap locks the foot in place for quick transitions between burns. The 100% microfiber upper resists stretch, so the fit stays precise over time. Handmade in France.
Best For
Best for sport climbing and trad multipitch on slab and vertical terrain. Aimed at intermediate to advanced climbers.
Among the 469 adult climbing shoes we track, the Apache Light Plus ranks in the top 7% for smearing, the top 26% for pocket climbing and the top 31% for sensitivity.
Strengths & Trade-offs
Apache Light Plus strengths
- Shape adapts to the angles you see on most sport climbs
- Velcro makes shoe changes quick between routes
- Flex handles the transition from edging to smearing
- Send it to a cobbler when the rand thins out
Apache Light Plus trade-offs
- Upper does not stretch, so a tight first fit stays tight
How the Apache Light Plus fits
Expect minimal stretch: the microfiber upper does not give, and Andrea Boldrini says to wear this model snug. Its size chart puts the F6 last about two sizes below your street size; for more room, the maker suggests the next size up.
Fit profile: medium width, standard forefoot volume, medium heel, suits egyptian toe shapes.
Minimal stretch expected; minimal break-in; manufacturer suggests two sizes down from street size.
How it fit climbers with your foot shape: fit reports from feet like yours.
Stiffness
Measured stiffness: 0.36 on our 0-1 scale (0 = softest). Among aggressive shoes it sits between the La Sportiva Skwama (0.33, softer) and the La Sportiva Solution (0.43, stiffer).
Apache Light Plus specifications
| Brand | Andrea Boldrini |
| Model | Apache Light Plus |
| Closure | Velcro |
| Downturn | Aggressive |
| Asymmetry | Strong |
| Toe Patch | Medium |
| Heel Rubber | Full |
| Ankle Protection | None |
| Midsole | Forefoot |
| Midsole Stiffness | Soft |
| Rand | Tensioned |
| Upper Material | Synthetic |
| Weight (pair) | 455 g (16.0 oz) |
| Break-in | Minimal |
| Rubber | Vibram Grip |
| Rubber Thickness | 4.5mm |
| Rubber Hardness | Soft |
| Durability | High |
| Vegan | Yes |
| Resoleable | Yes |
| Kids | No |
What the Apache Light Plus costs
No shop in the EU pool lists the Apache Light Plus in stock right now.
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- EB Balboa
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- Evolv Shaman Pro
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