Versatile, comfortable, sustainable, high-performing footwear
In life, just like climbing, versatility is the key to overcoming whatever obstacles or challenges the terrain throws at you. The La Sportiva Katana Lace, priced at $219, is a testament to this principle. This all-rounder shoe is a faithful companion, from navigating the finicky crevices of a steep single-pitch route to smearing on granite slabs, these shoes won't let you down.
The design aesthetics and features of the Katana Lace spell out its purpose: elite performance without compromising on comfort. Its mildly aggressive shape and the subtly asymmetric profile lend themselves well to precision maneuvers. Whether it's hooking into pockets, exploiting tiny edges, or twisting into thin cracks, this pair thrives in a variety of demanding situations.
What sets these shoes apart is the P3 tension rand and the full-length outsole design that supports climbers of all weights and sizes. This pair's slightly downturned toes, combined with a narrow heel design, facilitates precise heel hooking while maintaining a fit and feel that's familiar and comfortable.
The Katana Lace is not just about performance, it's about endurance and the ability to maintain top-tier functionality over time. This is evident in its superior lacing system and its robust 4mm Vibram XS Edge rubber outsoles that offer unmatched friction and stability. With the potential to be resoled, this investment will be your climbing companion for a long time.
In terms of size, if you go slightly larger, the Katana Lace proves to be an excellent multipitch shoe, boosting your confidence way off the deck. Opting for a slightly smaller size means the Katana will channel power to your big toe, enabling you to thrive on diminutive edges.
An additional highlight is the shoe's commitment to sustainability, coming from a Climate Neutral Certified brand. This is a nod to all those climbers who understand that our love for the rocks should also translate into respect for the environment.
In conclusion, the La Sportiva Katana Lace is a climbing shoe for those who value performance, comfort, and versatility. Whether you're an experienced climber looking to push your limits or an enthusiast looking to improve your skills, this shoe is a worthwhile investment. After all, a good journey starts with a solid step. And the Katana Lace is exactly that.
Pros:
- Versatility: The shoe excels in various climbing styles and types of rock. It's a great choice for steep single-pitch routes, smearing on granite slabs, and toeing in on small cracks.
- Performance and Comfort: Despite its aggressive design, the shoe is exceptionally comfortable and performs well in demanding climbing conditions.
- Size Adaptability: Sized slightly larger, it serves as an excellent multipitch shoe. When sized smaller, it channels power to the big toe, aiding climbers on smaller edges.
- P3 Tension Rand: This feature provides excellent comfort and performance.
- High-Quality Materials: Made with 4mm Vibram XS Edge rubber and full-length LaspoFlex with the P3 system, the shoe provides superior friction and stability.
- Sustainability: The shoes come from a Climate Neutral Certified brand, appealing to environmentally-conscious climbers.
Cons:
- Price: At $219, the shoe is on the higher end of the price spectrum, which might be a barrier for climbers on a tight budget.
- Narrow Fit: The Katana Lace is best suited for slightly narrow feet, potentially making it less comfortable for those with wider feet.
- Specialized Design: Its mildly aggressive shape and subtle asymmetry might take some time to get used to for beginners.
- Weight: Weighing 1 lb. 1.6 oz., it might be considered slightly heavy for climbers who prefer featherweight footwear.
$219
