So iLL Start
So iLL
The Start is a firm, slightly downturned velcro shoe from So iLL for sport climbing and bouldering. So iLL lists it as medium-width with a medium heel.
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.
Among the 469 adult climbing shoes we track, the Start ranks in the top 42% for comfort, the top 46% for edging and the top 46% for crack climbing.
Strengths & Trade-offs
Start 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
Start trade-offs
- Synthetic upper traps more heat and moisture
- Stiff platform sacrifices sensitivity for support
How the Start fits
Fit profile: medium width, standard forefoot volume, medium heel, suits roman and egyptian toe shapes.
Minimal stretch expected; minimal break-in; manufacturer suggests street size to one and a half sizes up.
How it fit climbers with your foot shape: fit reports from feet like yours.
Stiffness
Measured stiffness: 0.55 on our 0-1 scale (0 = softest). Among slightly downturned shoes it sits between the Scarpa Vapor LV (0.51, softer) and the La Sportiva Skwama Lite (0.64, stiffer).
Start specifications
| Brand | So iLL |
| Model | Start |
| Closure | Velcro |
| Downturn | Slight |
| Asymmetry | Slight |
| Toe Patch | Medium |
| Heel Rubber | Partial |
| Ankle Protection | None |
| Midsole | Full |
| Midsole Stiffness | Medium hard |
| Rand | Relaxed |
| Upper Material | Synthetic |
| Weight (pair) | 386 g (13.6 oz) |
| Break-in | Minimal |
| Rubber | So iLL Proprietary |
| Rubber Thickness | 3mm |
| Rubber Hardness | Medium |
| Durability | High |
| Vegan | Yes |
| Resoleable | Yes |
| Kids | No |
What the Start costs
No shop in the EU pool lists the Start in stock right now.
Similar Climbing Shoes
Prices, stock and owner fit data on this page update daily. You are welcome to cite these figures if you name climbing-gear.com and link to this page - see our data terms.