The ACE is a fully lined, medium stiff, all-around, low cut shoe equally competent climbing micro-edges, cracks and friction slabs. The ACE has probably been used to put up more hard crack climbs in Yosemite, Indian Creek and Joshua Tree than any other shoe - except maybe the BALLET GOLD. It's a favorite of trad climbers for its versatility and comfort - on routes ranging from one pitch crag climbs to do-it-in-a-day Grade V's and VI's. This model is board lasted for super support and durability and canvas lined for dependable fit and predictable performance.. year after year. Niceties include a foam padded tongue, leatherboard footbed - which improves with age, a lined back stay to protect your Achilles and graduated slab of firm & sticky FS Quattro Rubber. The ACE can be resoled numerous times by your favorite rock shoe cobbler to give you years of great climbing - and value. Fitting tip: if you wear a men's 10.5 US street shoe (UK9.5) order this size for comforatable crack climbing and long routes. I you want the ACE to be "stiffer" for standing on knobs and thin edges go down 1/2 size to a UK9. Made in Spain, shipped world-wide.