
SCARPA Arpia: new climbing shoe summer 2019
The climbing shoe SCARPA Arpia arrives as a promise: versatility, comfort, and precision. Designed in the "Balance Performance" line, it combines a soft microfiber upper that feels good against the skin and a semi-rigid construction to hold the line between comfort and technicality. We speak the truth: this tool is meant for climbers who want a shoe capable of handling bouldering, crag, and gym sessions without sacrificing comfort.
The teams at AlpinStore, a group of athletes who test everything in the field, have put the SCARPA Arpia to the test. The result: a shoe that transitions from technical overhangs to micro-footholds thanks to a thin yet sufficient sole and a rethought heel for more precise grip. If you're looking for gear to progress without breaking the bank, our range also includes affordable climbing equipment to start seriously.
The 3.5 mm Vibram XS Grip2 sole provides the right amount of grip and sensitivity. The fully rubber-covered front area extends the lifespan and allows for solid placements on small footholds. The heel volume has been reduced: more precision on hooks and heel placements. All these details are designed for demanding climbers.
- upper: microfiber, comfort in wear
- sole: Vibram XS Grip2 3.5 mm
- closure: velcro for quick adjustment
- volumes: adapted for a slightly low fit
We tested it in bouldering and on routes: it surprises with its balance. It is not an overly aggressive shoe, but for those who want high-performance climbing shoes that are versatile, the Arpia finds its place. Long sessions remain bearable thanks to the soft inner finish that avoids excessive friction.
For female climbers, SCARPA offers the Arpia Wmn version, adjusted to the female morphology. Half sizes are available, and to help you choose, below is a summary table of sizes provided by the manufacturer.
| Men's sizes | 34 - 46 (half sizes available) |
| Women's sizes | 34 - 43 (half sizes available) |
At AlpinStore, we don't sell promises: we offer a selection of hiking and trail shoes to complete your adventure kit, and we assist in choosing shoes based on your playground. Do you boulder? Do you want to set up for long cliffs? We help you decide.
Let's talk closures: the Arpia relies on velcro. Advantages: quick adjustment, constant support, and easy on-off between routes. If you prefer laces for a progressive tightening and a more enveloping shape, check out our selection of lace-up climbing shoes. And for those who want the speed of velcro, check the selection of velcro climbing shoes: we explain the trade-offs so you can choose according to your practice.
Expert advice: the shoe doesn't do it all. Knowing how to choose your climbing anchor and mastering some technical basics will bring you more safety and pleasure than changing shoes every month. Anchoring, fall management, and route reading remain essential.
Do you want to complete your gear? We offer climbing accessories tested by our team: bags, tapes, brushes, and chalk, selected for their reliability. For those who are raising their standards in terms of gear, the possibility to buy reliable and high-performance climbing gear is also at the heart of our offer: we prioritize products tested in real conditions.
Why choose the Arpia if you're hesitating between several models? Because it holds up as soon as you ask for versatility: technical bouldering, short routes, well-equipped gyms. The optimized heel facilitates aggressive placements, and the sole maintains good grip on small footholds. If you want a shoe to progress without torturing yourself at every session, the Arpia is a serious option.
For tight budgets, we also think of you: in addition to our premium models, the store offers options for affordable climbing equipment and occasional deals. Beware: cheaper doesn't mean dangerous. We maintain a quality filter: everything we sell must remain safe and durable.
Maintenance and practical advice: avoid machine washing, air dry, remove chalk after each session, and alternate several pairs if you climb often. A well-loved shoe lasts longer. And if you want to progress further, come see us for a custom fitting or a technical discussion with a team member.
If you want to compare: here are some uses to help you decide in one sentence: explosive bouldering = tighter fit and sensitive sole; long routes = comfort and support; gym = versatility and ease of putting on. The Arpia checks many boxes without excelling only in one extreme niche.
Finally, customer experience matters: we are a young, committed team, we test, we eliminate what doesn't hold up, and we only sell what we use. If you want to buy reliable and high-performance climbing gear (reminder: available in our selection), or simply discuss the ideal size, we are here, direct and without bullshit. Do you also want offers for trekking or hiking? Our selection of hiking and trail shoes completes your outdoor wardrobe for sessions where you walk before climbing.
In conclusion: the SCARPA Arpia is a well-designed shoe, made for climbers seeking a rare compromise between comfort and technicality. Tested by enthusiasts, it is one of the models we recommend when you want to level up without sacrificing your feet. We advise you to try it in-store when possible, or contact us for personalized advice.


































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