The Ultimate Guide to Mad Rock Drone Resole for Peak Climbing Performance
Greetings, Readers!
Welcome to the ultimate guide to Mad Rock Drone resole. If you’re an avid climber, you know the importance of having high-quality shoes that can withstand the rigors of your adventures. The Mad Rock Drone is an excellent climbing shoe, and with a proper resole, it can breathe new life into your old pair.
Exploring the Anatomy of a Mad Rock Drone Resole
Choosing the Right Rubber
The rubber compound you choose for your resole will significantly impact the performance of your shoes. Softer rubber provides better friction on smooth surfaces, while harder rubber offers more durability. For the Mad Rock Drone, we recommend the following:
- Vibram XS Grip2: A high-friction rubber ideal for indoor and outdoor climbing on smooth surfaces
- Vibram Megagrip: A versatile rubber with excellent friction and durability for a wide range of climbing styles
Adhesive Options
Adhesives play a crucial role in ensuring the longevity of your resole. Two primary adhesives are commonly used:
- Barge Cement: A solvent-based adhesive that provides a strong bond but requires proper ventilation due to its fumes
- Shoe Goo: A water-based adhesive that is less fumes but may be less durable
Step-by-Step Mad Rock Drone Resole Guide
Materials and Tools
- New rubber sheet (Vibram XS Grip2 or Megagrip)
- Adhesive (Barge Cement or Shoe Goo)
- Wire brush or sandpaper
- Clean rag
- Rubber cement brush
- Safety glasses
Instructions
- Remove the Old Rubber: Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove the old rubber from the shoe. Be careful not to damage the leather upper.
- Clean the Surface: Wipe the surface of the shoe with a clean rag to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply Adhesive: Apply a thin layer of adhesive to both the shoe and the new rubber. Allow the adhesive to dry for 5-10 minutes.
- Warm the Rubber: Use a heat gun or hairdryer to warm the new rubber sheet. This will make it more pliable and easier to mold.
- Attach the Rubber: Press the new rubber onto the shoe, starting from the toe and working your way to the heel. Smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles.
- Clamp or Weight Down: Clamp the shoe with a vise or use weights to hold the rubber in place while the adhesive cures.
- Trim the Rubber: Once the adhesive has cured, trim any excess rubber around the edges of the shoe.
Comparison of Resole Options
| Resole Type | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Vibram XS Grip2 | Excellent friction on smooth surfaces | Less durable than Megagrip |
| Vibram Megagrip | Good friction and durability | May not be as grippy on smooth surfaces |
| Barge Cement | Strong bond | Requires proper ventilation due to fumes |
| Shoe Goo | Less fumes | May be less durable |
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Air bubbles: If you see air bubbles in the rubber, use a pin or syringe to release the air.
- Wrinkles: If the rubber wrinkles during application, warm the rubber and smooth it out.
- Poor adhesion: If the rubber peels off, ensure you used the correct adhesive and followed the instructions carefully.
Conclusion
Resoling your Mad Rock Drone climbing shoes is a straightforward process that can extend the life of your shoes and improve their performance. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a successful resole that will keep you climbing at your best.
While you’re here, be sure to check out our other articles on climbing gear and techniques. We have everything you need to know about choosing the right shoes, mastering your belay, and pushing your limits on the rock!
FAQ about Mad Rock Drone Resole
What is a Mad Rock Drone resoled?
A resoled climbing shoe is one that has had its original rubber replaced with new rubber. Mad Rock Drone resoled is a resoled climbing shoe that uses Mad Rock’s proprietary rubber compound.
Why would I need to resole my Mad Rock Drones?
Climbing shoes wear down over time, and the rubber on the sole can become smooth or worn away. This can make it difficult to climb effectively, and can also lead to injuries. Resoling your shoes can help to extend their lifespan and improve your climbing performance.
What are the benefits of using Mad Rock Drone resole?
Mad Rock Drone resoled offers several benefits over other resoled climbing shoes. Mad Rock’s proprietary rubber compound is very sticky and durable so it lasts longer and provides more friction. Mad Rock Drone resoled also have a more aggressive profile than the original shoes, which can help you to climb more difficult routes. They are also handmade in the USA by skilled craftspeople, so you can be sure that they are of the highest quality.
How much does it cost to resole my Mad Rock Drones?
The cost of a Mad Rock Drone resole will vary depending on the size of your shoes and the type of rubber you choose. However, you can expect to pay around $120-$160 for a resole.
How long does it take to resole my Mad Rock Drones?
The turnaround time for a Mad Rock Drone resole is typically 2-3 weeks. However, this can vary depending on the time of year and the workload of the resoler.
Can I resole my Mad Rock Drones myself?
It is not recommended to resole your Mad Rock Drones yourself unless you have experience in shoemaking. Resoling climbing shoes is a complex process that requires specialized tools and materials. If you attempt to resole your shoes yourself, you could damage them or make them unsafe to climb in.
Where can I get my Mad Rock Drones resoled?
There are several companies that offer Mad Rock Drone resolings. You can find a list of authorized resellers on the Mad Rock website.
What is the warranty on Mad Rock Drone resoled?
Mad Rock Drone resolings come with a 6-month warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Can I resole my Mad Rock Drones more than once?
Yes, you can resole your Mad Rock Drones multiple times. However, each resole will weaken the shoe, so it is not recommended to resole your shoes more than 2-3 times.
What type of rubber should I choose for my Mad Rock Drone resole?
The type of rubber you choose for your Mad Rock Drone resole will depend on your climbing style and the type of terrain you climb on. Mad Rock offers a variety of rubber compounds to choose from, each with its own unique properties.
