SCARPA introduces BLACKBIRD: the new climbing shoe that redefines precision and support on the smallest footholds.
A project developed for technical rock climbing that introduces a 3D-printed Pebax® midsole reinforced with carbon fibre, the beginning of a new frontier in vertical performance.
Asolo, 16 April 2026 – SCARPA introduces BLACKBIRD, a revolutionary high-performance climbing shoe designed for technical rock routes that require the highest level of precision and control. The result of six years of research and development led by climbing legend Heinz Mariacher alongside the SCARPA climbing R&D team, BLACKBIRD includes a brand new 3D-printed Pebax® midsole reinforced with carbon fibre, a solution designed to redefine support on micro footholds.
BLACKBIRD was developed to overcome the traditional dichotomy between stiff climbing shoes and softer, more sensitive models. The result is a product that delivers the stability and precision typical of structured shoes, while maintaining greater adaptability and sensitivity on the rock, allowing for longer sessions and reduced foot fatigue—even on demanding routes.
At the heart of the project is the Carbon-Enhanced 3D Molded Pebax® midsole, made from Pebax® Rnew combined with carbon fibre. This allows a more efficient distribution of forces across the forefoot, improving support on minimal footholds and increases precision in the most technical movements.
Integrating a carbon structure inside a shoe designed to retain a certain degree of softness represented one of the main design challenges during development. The objective? To introduce a new category of performance based on intelligent support and energy efficiency.
Thanks to its structural architecture, BLACKBIRD allows for less aggressive downsizing compared to traditional performance climbing shoes. This enables climbers to opt for a more comfortable fit without sacrificing precision and control, improving fatigue management during long routes and extended climbing sessions.
This makes BLACKBIRD particularly effective for technical routes with minimal footholds, sport climbing projects on vertical walls, long multi-pitch routes and bouldering problems that require power and stability on extended footholds.
The BLACKBIRD project involved a complete overhaul of climbing shoe construction, from redefining the tension system to developing new material blends and designing a new heel architecture. The double-layer microfibre upper, combined with an Alcantara® forefoot lining, enhances precision and comfort during technical moves. The full-wrapping closure system and highly enveloping tension system ensure a direct connection between foot and rock, while the internal side stabiliser improves security during the most demanding movements.
The heel, featuring new Alcantara® padding on the Achilles tendon and a high-precision IHC (Integrated Heel Catch) construction, contributes to increased control and comfort during prolonged use.
- Carbon-Enhanced 3D Molded Pebax® midsole
- Double-layer microfibre upper
- Alcantara® forefoot lining
- Vibram® XS Grip 2 sole
- Heel with Alcantara® padding and high-precision IHC (Integrated Heel Catch) construction
- Full-wrapping closure system
- Highly enveloping tension system
- Internal side stabiliser
More information: https://scarpa.com/en-ce/pages/black-bird-climbing-shoe
Link to images: download (PW: Blackbird_26)
SCARPA was founded on the belief that No Place Too Far exists to be explored. A vision that reflects a deep respect for the mountains, and one that supports those who aim to turn every limit into a new benchmark. Craftsmanship and innovation come together to create footwear for every path, from everyday challenges to the most demanding peaks.
Grounded in a family-owned Italian heritage and a direct production chain, SCARPA has always invested in human relationships built on trust and mutual understanding. Every product is born from a real world need, interpreted with expertise to create high-performance, durable footwear. Authenticity, mountain culture and conscious innovation guide every decision—yesterday as much as tomorrow.
Founded in 1938 in Asolo, in the heart of Italy’s Veneto footwear district, SCARPA is an international company specializing in footwear for mountaineering, climbing, trail running, trekking, hiking, outdoor lifestyle, ski mountaineering, and telemark. With offices in Italy, Germany, the United States, and China, and production facilities in Italy, Romania, and Serbia, SCARPA remains a reference point for those who experience nature as a source of freedom and adventure.