Good beginner shoe. I use them in the gym and outdoors. I don't have much to compare them to, because I am a new climber but I will say that the velcro straps have caused me problems. I have wide feet and still the straps would hang off the sides of the shoes, they were so long that they actually interfered with my climbing so I cut them. Also, I don't think I will be buying velcro shoes again, sometimes they loosen up during climbing and im always affraid that the rock is going to lift up one of my straps in the middle of the climb. Also, the heel cup doesn't grip very tight. Other than that they are comfortable and seem durable, sticky rubber. I should have gotten them tighter.