Boreal Joker
This medium-stiff, lined and padded shoe strikes a balance between being comfortably supportive, yet not so stiff it feels like an ironing board. It's a great everyman's shoe, one that forgives sloppy footwork and shores up feet that are too weak to optimize slippers or soft shoes.
Unlock this article and more benefits with 40% off.
Already have an Outside Account? Sign in
40% Off Outside+.
$4.99/month $2.99/month*
Get the one subscription to fuel all your adventures.
- Map your next adventure with our premium GPS apps: Gaia GPS Premium and Trailforks Pro.
- Read unlimited digital content from 15+ brands, including Outside Magazine, Triathlete, Ski, Trail Runner, and VeloNews.
- Watch 600+ hours of endurance challenges, cycling and skiing action, and travel documentaries.
- Learn from the pros with expert-led online courses.
*Outside memberships are billed annually. Print subscriptions available to U.S. residents only. You may cancel your membership at anytime, but no refunds will be issued for payments already made. Upon cancellation, you will have access to your membership through the end of your paid year. More Details
$96
This medium-stiff, lined and padded shoe strikes a balance between being comfortably supportive, yet not so stiff it feels like an ironing board. It’s a great everyman’s shoe, one that forgives sloppy footwork and shores up feet that are too weak to optimize slippers or soft shoes. The Boreal Joker is one of the top picks for multi-pitch face routes where you stand hard on your feet, such as those at Tuolumne or Red Rock, and vertical(ish) techy crags such as Smith, Shelf Road and the Gunks. A sliver of foam sandwiched in the heel takes the sting out of heel-first bouldering landings, and adds a smidge of comfort for hiking and descents. Fit is typical Boreal: wide throughout and high volume. The Joker debuts Boreal’s new FS-Quattro rubber, which they say, is the stickiest rubber ever produced by Boreal. Indeed, the new compound is stickier, gripping slightly better than the old in friction-board tests. e-boreal.com
BETA: Comfortable all-arounder that excels on edgy, technical face routes. Ideal for climbers with mediocre footwork or weak feet.