So iLL Start
So iLL
A rental that's too good to be a rental. Designed with Fred Nicole on a flat last with a slightly downturned toe, Start is a shoe for beginners built to last. Features a full toe-to-heel midsole, single z-strap velcro closure, and durable proprietary rubber. Perfect for gym climbing and learning the basics.
Best For
Best for sport climbing and bouldering on slab, vertical and overhang terrain. Aimed at hobby to intermediate climbers.
Strengths & Trade-offs
Strengths
- Dial the fit tighter as needed during the session
- Rubber grips consistently across surfaces
- Board-y feel lets you stand on nothing for ages
- One of the lighter options at 386g pair weight
Trade-offs
- Synthetic upper traps more heat and moisture
- Stiff platform sacrifices sensitivity for support
Sizing & Fit
Fit profile: medium width, standard forefoot volume, medium heel, suits roman and egyptian toe shapes.
Minimal stretch expected; minimal break-in.
Stiffness
Measured stiffness: 0.55 on our 0-1 scale (0 = softest). Among slightly downturned shoes it sits between the Tenaya Ra (0.51, softer) and the La Sportiva Aragon (0.65, stiffer).
Specifications
| Brand | So iLL |
| Model | Start |
| Closure | Velcro |
| Feel | Stiff-Moderate |
| Downturn | Slight |
| Asymmetry | Slight |
| Rubber | So iLL Proprietary |
| Rubber Thickness | 3mm |
| Weight (pair) | 386g |
| Vegan | Yes |
| Kids | No |