Has the new Zenist and finds it great, though sometimes a bit soft; would like a stiffer toe with the same sensitivity.
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climbing shoe
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Picked up the 2026 Zenist on sale: the softest shoe they've tried and planned as an indoor shoe, but the heel is loose and baggy.
Their new 2026 Zenist arrived with a burnt-rubber smell inside, unlike any La Sportiva or Scarpa they've had.
The 2026 Zenist has more tension through the upper and stretches even less; the heel feels more secure and the toe more tensioned.
Has had two pairs of Zenists in street size; both quite tight, hurting while breaking in and always a bit uncomfortable, but used as their indoor bouldering shoe.
Enjoying their Evolv Zenists (not the Pro): pretty sensitive, good wide toe box, decent heel, and no downsizing needed.