For every adventure, a specially designed pair

If there's a sport, there's a shoe specifically made to help you do it better — even if you seldom need to touch the pavement. Here are a few examples of highly functional footwear for some of the most popular off-asphalt pastimes.

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Climbing soles that grip

Five-Ten Gambit: The rock-climbing shoe Spider-Man would love.

Likes: Has a super-grippy sole due to use of innovative Stealth Onyx, claimed to be the industry's "stickiest" climbing rubber (the soles literally stuck together after I rubbed them against each other for a few seconds). The comfy synthetic upper stretches to fit, while the toe rand provides a snug fit in the toe box without hot spots. Effective for beginners through experts.

Dislikes: None.

Price: $115. (Siren, the female counterpart, is $109.) (909) 798-4222; http://www.fiveten.com .

Support for water adventurers

Chaco USA Z-2: Kayaking-rafting sandal that fits like a second skin.

Likes: Comfort, fit and control. Big-toe loop keeps forefoot firmly in place. Foot is locked in by the design's single, continuous strap, which eliminates all slack. Durable; avoids use of Velcro, which can fray over time. Pronounced arch and thick, heavy sole provides good support and grip when hiking and portaging (carrying the boat over land). Can be re-soled for $30.

Dislikes: No toe guards to protect against rocks in white water spills. The arch support may initially irritate those with flat feet.

Price: $95. (970) 527-4990; http://www.chacousa.com .

Stretch and tone in style

Reebok Zanchi Zen 06: Minimalist shoe for yoga and Pilates.

Likes: Provides good grip and antibacterial protection. Folds up for traveling. Includes stylish leather upper, elastic straps and tactile rubber bumps on the bottom for support and comfort.

Dislikes: No corresponding men's shoe available.

Price: $64.99. (800) 228-7867; http://www.rbk.com .



Biker-hiker combo that stands up

Pearl Izumi X-Alp Mid: Mountain-bike shoe for tough, biker-hiker adventures.