The Boreal Dharma - Stiff enough for small edges and soft enough for steep routes.
If the Satori is Boreal’s top-end soft shoe for steeper terrain, then the Dharma is targeted at anyone looking for a similar level of performance, but with a bit more support when climbing on small edges.
The Boreal Dharma Climbing Shoe
The Dharma uses the same comfy and snug-fitting asymmetric downturned last as well as the same performance-increasing tensioned rand system. The similarities continue with the gently- tensioned, sticky-rubber toe patch and the exceptionally grippy Zenith rubber. The heel cup features a nicely contoured shape (without the Satori’s hooking rib) and provides solid heel hooking. The two areas where the Dharma differs from the Satori are in its midsole construction and closure system. The Dharma has a slightly stiffer and more supportive midsole, which allows it to better transition to more vertical edging-oriented climbing. While it’s still an incredibly sensitive shoe that can easily play on steep cave-like terrain, it’s simply not as biased towards steeper rock.
The Dharma also eschews the Satori’s single-pull closure system for a more conventional three-strap Velcro affair. But unlike other strap-closure systems that may not evenly secure and tension the upper, the Dharma’s setup provides a locked-in fit that rivals any lace-up closure. On routes, the Dharma exhibited excellent control on small edges and smears and was unfazed when transitioning to steeper terrain.
With it’s great fit, control, precision and sensitivity, the Dharma is an exceptional and versatile high performance slipper. Highly recommended.
You can check out the Dharma and other Boreal shoes at www.e-boreal.com.
The Dharma also eschews the Satori’s single-pull closure system for a more conventional three-strap Velcro affair. But unlike other strap-closure systems that may not evenly secure and tension the upper, the Dharma’s setup provides a locked-in fit that rivals any lace-up closure. On routes, the Dharma exhibited excellent control on small edges and smears and was unfazed when transitioning to steeper terrain.
With it’s great fit, control, precision and sensitivity, the Dharma is an exceptional and versatile high performance slipper. Highly recommended.
You can check out the Dharma and other Boreal shoes at www.e-boreal.com.
