Ocún uses three types of high-performance rubber in their climbing shoes, each designed for different needs and skill levels:

• CAT rubber μ 1.1 – High friction & durable

This compound offers a good balance of grip and durability. It’s designed for beginner models, focusing on abrasion resistance while still providing reliable friction for both rock and indoor climbing.

• CAT rubber μ 1.5 – Super sticky & precise

This is Ocún’s super sticky rubber, engineered for maximum grip and precision. It enhances friction between the sole and the surface, even on tiny footholds and edges. It’s used in mid-range to high-performance shoes and is great for technical climbing.

• VIBRAM XS Grip – Sticky + stiff

This trusted Vibram compound blends stickiness with stiffness, making it excellent for demanding routes that require precision and stability on small edges. It’s used on shoes designed for advanced and performance-focused climbers.

CAT (Climbing Adhesion Technology) rubber is a high-performance climbing rubber developed by Ocún to deliver exceptional grip on rock and indoor surfaces. Its effectiveness is measured using the μ (mu) friction coefficient, which shows how well the rubber resists slipping when pressure is applied.

To measure this, Ocún uses a custom test that simulates real climbing conditions—pressing the rubber onto a surface with a known force and measuring how much it resists sliding.

CAT rubber starts at a μ value of 1.1, with higher numbers meaning more friction:

• μ ≤ 0.9: Standard rubber
• μ = 1.1 – 1.4: High friction rubber
• μ ≥ 1.5: Super sticky rubber
  

CAT rubber bonds to the surface through macro-scale grip (rubber sticking to rough rock texture) and micro-scale adhesion (rubber molecules interacting with the surface), giving climbers reliable traction even in demanding conditions.

A "last" is the mold that shapes a climbing shoe—it defines the fit, profile, and performance. Because no two feet (or climbs) are the same, different lasts are created to match various foot shapes, climbing styles, and comfort needs. For example, some are built for narrow feet and precise edging, while others offer more volume and all-day comfort. More lasts = better fit for more climbers

You can check the full range of lasts and how they differ here.

The patented 3 Force System (3FS) used in the Ozone, Ozone HV and Fury provides precise pressure distribution contributing to a higher torsional stiffness and resulting in perfect balance on the tiniest footholds and edges.

In short it ensures no rotation on the foot, better stability, and great support on small footholds

The midsole affects how a climbing shoe balances support and sensitivity. 3D midsoles are anatomically shaped to match the human foot, offering better toe support and power transfer. They come in different stiffness levels, from 3D Fit Hard (more support, less sensitivity) to 3D Fit Middle (a balance of both).

2D midsoles are flatter and come in varying stiffness too, like 2D Toe Soft for maximum sensitivity, or 2D Fit Hard for more structured support.

Choosing the right one depends on whether you prioritise feeling the rock (sensitivity) or edging power (hardness).

Absolutely. We’ve wrapped up all the key info—models, fits, midsoles, lasts, and more—into one clean, scroll-stopping chart. Whether you’re chasing performance or prioritising comfort, it’s the quickest way to line up your options and find the perfect match without getting buried in the details.

Check out the Complete Shoe Comparison to make choosing your next pair a breeze.