Month: July 2020

La Sportiva Mythos Review- Climber’s Favorite or Not?

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la sportiva mythos review

Fiveten Hiangle Review: Is It The Perfect Men’s Climbing Shoe?

Peformance Breakdown

Comfort 95%
crack 90%
edging 85%
sensitivity 80%
pocket 65%
EDITORS RATING
☆☆☆☆☆ 4.3/5
CHECK PRICE

Intro

Nothing beats the feeling of a refreshing climb out in nature but that amazing experience can quickly fade away when your legs start to hurt. 

Uncomfortable climbing shoes not only cause minor discomforts but prolonged use can even cause permanent injuries.

For climbing long hours outdoors, you will need a sturdy yet comfortable pair of climbing shoes fit for all terrains.

That is exactly what the iconic la sportiva mythos climbing shoe promises and in terms of comfort, it sticks true to its promise.

Why not go through our la Sportiva Mythos Review to know exactly why so many climbers love it

Product Specification

  • Model: La Sportiva Mythos
  • User Specifier: Men
  • Profile: Flat
  • Outsole: Vibram XS Edge (4 mm)
  • Midsole: 1.1mm LaspoFlex
  • Upper sole: Suede leather
  • Closure System: Lace
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Product Overview

The Mythos has been a trademark shoe for La Sportiva since the 90s. Their iconic purple-colored shoe is all sold out. But the new earthly colored shoe presents a more rugged look and certainly matches the outdoor nature vibe. 

There is more to it than just the rugged and rustic look. The Mythos was designed as a climbing competition shoe and the latest Mythos for men’s stays true to its nature.

Despite the rugged looks, the shoes are actually one of the most comfortable climbing shoes currently available. The soft leather upper perfectly adapts to your foot size and still offers room for breathability so you can climb for long hours even on hot days.

While comfort is one of the key selling points, the mythos is also ideal for crack climbing. The Vibram XS edge further complements it’s crack climbing ability.

The mythos comes packed with some impressive, all of which we are going to cover in our la sportiva mythos  review

What We Like

  • Laced system offers more control
  • Cushioned paddings provide maximum comfort
  • Narrow front excels when used on cracks
  • Slip lasted construction offer flexibility
  • Rubber rand provides a sticky guard
  • Entire upper is made out of leather
  • Padded tongue absorbs sweat

What We Dont Like

  • The shoe stretches over time
  • Does not edge well

Feature & Benefit

Lacing system allows customized fit

You will find two types of closure systems in climbing shoes. One is the velcro and another is the lacing system. The mythos is equipped with a lacing system. 

While velcros are easy to put on and off the lacing system has its own benefits. The two the toe lacing system of the mythos goes all the way down to the front of the shoe which gives you full control of customizing and fine-tuning the fit.

The laces are also looped all the way around the heel. So, when you cinch up the laces you also are able to adjust the tension of the heel and keep it nice, secured, and firmly attached.

Narrow front enhances crack climbing

In order to efficiently climb cracks, the shoes must have a flat profile, and having an extended frontal makes things easier.

With the mythos, you will find the combination of both. The flat profile provides the right amount of downturn and the narrow structure along with the durable and lowered volume frontal allows you to jam your foot in the cracks and still leaves room to wiggle your toes and get a better grip. 

This makes it perfect for crack climbing and even dessert climbing but if you compare it with a finale in a la sportiva finale vs mythos the finale will be a better option for edging because of its more aggressive shape.

Maximum comfort in
every way

When you are out for a long day of climbing you would want your shoes to be as comfortable as possible. Climbing steep terrain alone is difficult but having a stiff shoe makes it extra hard.

With the mythos, you would not have to worry about it. The cushioned tongue absorbs sweat and keeps the shoe fresh. The inner leather upper along with the laspo flex midsole all connect with it narrow frame to provide a cocoon-like snugness,

If you want a shoe that you can wear all day long without any sort of discomfort then the mythos should be your ideal choice. People with any foot injuries or bone spurs are especially encouraged to try out the mythos.

Flexibility makes it
best for smearing

Another great quality of the mythos is its flexibility. The flexibility of this shoe allows it to create a large surface area when it is in contact with rocks and others alike. Because of the flexibility it easily connects with the different shapes. 

This gives you a good grip despite not having the best gripping soles. The XS grip would have been better in this case. The XS edge does have a sticky guard but would have been better off with an XS grip sole.

When it comes to sizing la sportiva mythos it is best to wear and get the shoe that perfectly wraps around your feet because the shoes stretch a little over time. As for how to size la sportiva mythos?

It is recommended to fit the trad shoe about two sizes under the user’s street shoe to perfectly compensate for the stretching factor.

Neutral Last Eases Sensitivity

With a lot of climbing shoes, you will see an aggressive curved shape from heel to toe. Those shoes will give you more downturn but it is a relatively uncomfortable feel and takes time to get used to the shape.

The mythos, especially the la sportiva mythos men’s comes with a more rounded or neutral last, and a wider fit. The shape is also pretty straight from heel to toe. This allows you to easily insert your feet and have maximum sensitivity throughout your whole feet.

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Bottom Line

That’s all about our la Sportiva Mythos Review. With its amazing features, it does prove to be a very and if not the most comfortable shoe out there.

Despite its amazing crack climbing ability, it does lack features when it comes to edging. If you are however looking for a climbing shoe that you can easily wear for long hours and then the mythos is definitely an ideal choice.

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Scarpa Vapor V Review- Is It Worth The Money?

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scarpa vapour v climbing shoes for sport climbing and bouldering

Peformance Breakdown

Comfort 90%
Durability 85%
crack 80%
edging 75%
pocket 70%
EDITORS RATING
☆☆☆☆☆ 4.3/5
Check Latest Price

After you are done with the basics of climbing you might be willing to go into slightly steeper terrain. In that case, you would definitely want a pair of climbing shoes that are able to claw down into edges and give you a much-secured grip.

If you are in this intermediary stage then the Scarpa Vapor V might just be the shoe to boost your climbing skills.

This updated Vapor V holds true to its origin and has implemented some cool new features. 

Why not stick with us and take a look at our Scarpa Vapor V Review as we give you a run down show what this climbing shoe is all about.

scarva vapor v climbing shoes

Product Specification

  • Model: Vapor V
  • User Specifier: Men
  • Profile: Curved and slightly downturned
  • Outsole: XS Edge (3.5 mm)
  • Midsole: Flexan 1.0mm
  • Upper: Micro Suede leather
  • Closure System: Strap
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Product Overview

This Scarpa Vapor V is the second edition in the vapor line. While having some new features installed, the Vapor V does not lose any of its previous best characteristics which are durability and comfort.

With a combination of both durability and comfort, the vapor V seems promising for improving climbers who are ready to move on to the next level.  

This Vapor V comes with a curved, slightly downturned profile and a lower volume fit which allows the user’s feet to get used to different climbing styles and terrains.

The bi-tension rands decrease tension around your feet and instead go beneath the toes and pull the heel backward. This gives you the right amount of support and lessens and lessens any chance of toe pain. 

The cushioned paddings on the inside and microsuede outer make sure the shoes last a long time and allow you to wear them all day. 

There are so many other features that we will be discussing in this scarpa vapor v mens review down below

scarpa vapour v shoe reviews

What We Like

  • The curved, downturn shape is ideal for edging
  • Inner suede foot bases are extremely comfortable
  • Bottom ridges provide friction
  • Bi-tension rand offers amazing support
  • Padded tongue absorbs sweat
  • The inner foot base does not get discolored easily
  • Lightweight toe patch is great for hooking and cycling

What We Dont Like

  • Not pointy enough to fit in small pockets
Read Customer Review

Feature & Benefit of SCARPA V

Extended Toe Positioning For Crack Climbing

When you are ready to move into steeper terrain make sure your climbing shoes are up to the task. For improving climbers the shoes need to be able to perform crack climbing and edging smoothly.

When it comes to crack climbing the Vapor V does not disappoint. Whether it be difficult granite cracks or sandstones the curved and extended point of the shoe creates enough wiggle room or shoves in the cracks to balance out your weight.

This also allows you to put less stress on your hands and arms so you can enjoy climbing for a longer time.

scarpa vapour v features extended toe positioning for climbers

Vibram XS rubber Increases Edging Performance

The Vibram XS edge rubber has a little bit more firmness and grip than the XS grip which means when comparing the scarpa arpia vs vapor v, the Vapor V will last longer when it comes to the outer sole. The XS edge rubber as the name suggests is specially made for edging. The rubber allows a firm grip even on dime edges.

However, it may take a little time to get used to edging with these shoes because for new users it is difficult to understand the accurate extent of the narrow front kicker.

But that’s not all you will find a half rand at the bottom and on the backside, you will find some ridges that provide a little extra friction for heel hooking.

Upper Suede Enhances Durability

The scarpa vapor v climbing shoes have been handcrafted with a fully microsuede upper. The previous version had less synthetic material but with this one, you will have synthetic microsuede on both sides with leather at the bottom. This upper makes the shoe softer and lightweight but it is also very durable. The offset stitch pattern on the top also prevents offset stitch lines from putting pressure on top of the foot and toes.

scarpa vapor climbing shoes handcrafted with microsuede upper

Dual Velcro Straps Makes Easier Adjustability

The dual velcro straps allow you to fine-tune the shoe very easily. Because of its curved shape and double straps, it offers a nice snug fit. 

If you compare the scarpa instinct vs scarpa vapor v you will find the Vapor V has a much smarter velcro strap design. The top strap velcros on the inside of your big toe whereas, the bottom one velcros in reverse. 

The reason why it is smart is that whenever you are going on a really technical route and have to pop your feet up the route slowly, the front strap if it is not reversed like the Vapor V will blow it very quickly because of the force. 

Having it reversed makes it able to support your movements and keep the shoe perfectly attached as well.

Talyn Midsole Gradually Enhances Sensitivity

Right out of the box the shoe feels pretty stiff but you will get used to it. This is why it’s best to first use it for a few practice climbs so you can accurately measure the edges of the shoe.

The Talyn midsole is also a bit stiffer than the previous flexan midsole. The midsole is also stretched to the back of the shoe and offsets the upper. 

The shoe might feel a bit clunky but will provide the perfect amount of sensitivity and comfort after the initial scarpa vapor v break-in period.

scarpa vapor talyn midsole enhances durability

XS Heels Provide Superior Fit

The double inlay XS heel is complemented by both the XS rubber edge and the bi-tension rand. The heel locks around your feet quite nicely. The band goes around the heel to provide a tighter fit.

The women’s Vapor V has a narrower heel compared to the men’s Vapor V. The heels are made of M70 rubber which makes it sturdy, lightweight, and durable. 

As for the scarpa vapor v size guide, you will find sizes from 38-49 and it is best to pick up the actual size because they will never stretch out more than half a size.

scarpa vapor v shoes xs heel gives superior fit to climbers

Bottom Line

That’s all about the scarpa vapor v climbing shoes review and in the end, we can say one thing for sure. The Vapor V is probably one of the best-looking shoes out there, design-wise.

But it is so much more than just looks and it is worth the money if you are in an improving climber who is in that developing stage.

We do hope our Scarpa Vapor V Review has helped you learn all about this product so you can decide and compare yourself with other products out there.

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The Complete Scarpa Origin review- Is It The Best Climbing Shoes?

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scarpa origin climbing shoe review

Peformance Breakdown

Comfort 93%
Durability 89%
Sensitivity 83%
Crack 80%
EDITORS RATING
☆☆☆☆☆ 4.8/5
CHECK LATEST PRICE

Learning to climb can be a difficult task especially if you don’t have the right climbing shoes. You definitely do not want to slip and fall on the first go.

As a beginner, you would want shoes that give the right amount of adjustability, grip, and comfort.

In terms of comfort and adjustability, the SCARPA origin sounds very promising. The origin also comes with many other features that make it an ideal choice for beginner climbers.

So, stick with us as we go in-depth in our Scarpa origin review so you can decide whether you want this pair for your next climbing adventure.

Product Specification

  • Model: ORIGIN Climbing Shoe-U
  • User Specifier: Men
  • Outsole: Scarpa vision rubber (5mm)
  • Midsole: Flexan 1.9mm
  • Upper: Suede leather
  • Closure System: Dual opposing velcro straps
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Product Overview

The Italian manufacturing company, SCARPA has always come up with reliable climbing shoes. Even the Scarpa climbing boots got a lot of love because of their premium quality.

The origin is stated to be a part of their all-day performance category.

This flat profile shoe is amazing for getting beginners ease into the whole climbing routine. Perfect for a bouldering gym this pair easily fits even the larger feet and comfortably stays on the entire time.

Despite having a lot of cool features the origin comes at a very. decent price range. However, we do not recommend the origin for advanced climbers since it’s features are primarily ideal for the beginners.

What We Like

  • Flatter construction offers enough downturn for climbing
  • Suede upper makes sure the pair lasts
  • Velcro straps allow a snug fit
  • Wider & taller heel cuff allows for bigger size fits
  • Padded tongue provide extra comfort
  • Ultrathin plastic midsole provides maximum support

What We Dont Like

  • Not robust enough for advanced climbing
Read Customer Review

Feature & Benefit Of Scarpa Origin

To help you understand better, we are going to break down all of the cool features in our scarpa origin shoe review

Better Soles for Better Sensitivity:

Soles are one of the first things you will be looking for in a climbing shoe. You would want something that lasts long and provides a strong grip.

The SCARPA origin climbing shoes provide some amazing material when it comes to soles. The full outer sole is made of SCARPA’s very own 5mm thick proprietary vision rubber.

The ultra-thin 1.9mm flexan midsole is embedded in the shoe to provide support for the full foot without compromising any sensitivity.

The two soles create a perfect blend of durability and comfort for every beginner level climber.

Suede Upper for Enhanced Durability:

You would want your climbing shoes to last a long time and take a beating while at it. 

It is true that The scarpa origin rock shoes are specialized for beginner climbers but the shoe is on par with advanced climbing shoes when it’s about durability.

The plus suede leather upper provides a long term fit and a velvety comfort.

Flat Profile For Enhanced Performance:

A flat or neutral shoe will definitely feel nice and comfortable on the feet. This also makes the shoe a bit stiffer but very supportive. 

This feature comes especially handy for new climbers to get their feet used to climbing.The Origin-U’s flat profile provides all that and enough downturn to add precision to your climbing. 

The flat design also allows the feet to stay in a relaxed position so new climbers stay uncomfortable while climbing. The specialized  5mm thick vision rubber sole beneath the shoe is also there to handle any sort of discomfort.

Comfortable build with No Air Pockets:

Some people climb all day long. For that, the shoe has to be specially made to provide comfort. The Origin-U is part of SCARPA’s all-day performance category and it does not disappoint in terms of comfortability.

The Origin features a padded aero mesh tongue to provide all-day cushioning. On the outside, the shoe has passively charged rand ensures a cocoon-like snugness around your feet, so you can wear them all day and keep your feet relaxed.

Straps and Heels for an Adjustable Fit :

Whether you are climbing, running, or walking the one thing that can ruin the entire experience is adjustability. This counts especially when it’s time for climbing. You don’t want to be adjusting or tuning your shoes in the middle of your climb.

Thanks to the velcro straps you wouldn’t have to worry about the adjustability. The Origin-U comes with two hook and loop straps which are also wide, so you can fine-tune your fit. 

Velcro straps are also super easy on and off which is especially great in a bouldering gym.

In the back, you will also find wider and taller heels that allow you to fit larger feet and still be easily adjustable.

La Sportiva Finale

FAQ

Most frequent questions and answers

It is not that is why it is recommended that you buy the right size and not a smaller size with hopes that it will eventually stretch out. When it comes to the scarpa origin sizing it is best to downsize 0.5-1 size from the user’s street shoe size for better comfort.

Bottom Line

If you are a beginner and don’t want to spend a lot of money on your first pair of climbing shoes then the SCARPA origin might just be the best budget climbing shoe for you. 

Aside from the budget the hefty features we talked about earlier will also help you in your climbing endeavors. 

We do hope we were able to give you all the information you needed through our Scarpa origin review. Now, remember whatever brand or model you choose, make sure you look out for adjustability, grip, comfort, and durability. The right climbing shoe will truly make things much easier and enjoyable.

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