Comparison Table
| Feature | Evolv Defy | La Sportiva Tarantula |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Medium | Medium |
| Type of Climbing | Bouldering & Sport Climbing | All-around |
| Sole Stiffness | Soft & Flexible | Moderate |
| Shape | Flat | Flat & Slightly Curved |
| Closure System | Velcro & Lace-up | Velcro |
| Materials | Leather & Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Price | Moderate | Moderate |
| Personal Preference | Depends | Depends |
| Toe Box Shape | Round | Pointy |
| Heel Cup | Asymmetric | Asymmetric |
| Weight | Light | Light |
| Ventilation | Good | Good |
Fit
The Evolv Defy and the La Sportiva Tarantula both have a medium fit, which means they fit comfortably without being too snug or too loose. This medium fit allows the climber to have a good range of motion and also helps to provide support and balance during climbing. The Defy has an asymmetrical heel cup, which helps to keep the foot in place and provide a more secure fit. On the other hand, the Tarantula has a slightly curved shape, which helps to provide even better support and fit.
Type of Climbing
The Evolv Defy is designed for bouldering and sport climbing. Its soft and flexible sole makes it ideal for those who want to climb overhanging routes and tackle more technical movements. On the other hand, the La Sportiva Tarantula is more suitable for all-around climbing. Its moderate sole stiffness provides good support while still allowing the climber to move freely.
Sole Stiffness
The Evolv Defy has a soft and flexible sole that provides excellent grip and responsiveness. This makes it ideal for climbers who want to be able to move quickly and make dynamic movements. On the other hand, the La Sportiva Tarantula has a moderate sole stiffness that provides good support while still allowing the climber to move freely.
Shape
The Evolv Defy has a flat shape that helps to provide better stability. The flat shape also helps to provide more support for the foot. On the other hand, the La Sportiva Tarantula has a flat, but slightly curved shape that helps to provide even better support and fit.
Closure System
The Evolv Defy has a velcro closure system and a lace-up system that allows for a more secure fit and can be adjusted to fit different foot shapes. On the other hand, the La Sportiva Tarantula has a velcro closure system that can be adjusted for a more secure fit.
Materials
The Evolv Defy is made from a combination of leather and synthetic materials. The leather provides good durability and helps to keep the foot dry, while the synthetic material helps to provide good breathability. On the other hand, the La Sportiva Tarantula is made entirely of synthetic materials. The synthetic material helps to provide good breathability and durability.
Price
The Evolv Defy and the La Sportiva Tarantula are both available at a moderate price. This means that both shoes offer good value for money, and it comes down to personal preference which one is the better buy.Personal Preference
When it comes to deciding which shoe is better suited for you, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. The Evolv Defy and the La Sportiva Tarantula both have different features that make them suitable for different types of climbing, and it is up to the individual climber to decide which one is best for them.
Toe Box Shape
The Evolv Defy has a round toe box shape, which is ideal for climbing overhanging routes and tackling more technical movements. On the other hand, the La Sportiva Tarantula has a pointy toe box shape that helps to provide better grip and stability when climbing.
Heel Cup
Both the Evolv Defy and the La Sportiva Tarantula have an asymmetrical heel cup that helps to keep the foot in place and provide a more secure fit.
Weight
The Evolv Defy and the La Sportiva Tarantula are both quite lightweight. This makes them ideal for climbers who want to feel comfortable and light on their feet when climbing.
Ventilation
Both the Evolv Defy and the La Sportiva Tarantula are designed with good ventilation in mind. The leather and synthetic materials help to keep the foot cool and dry during long climbs.
In conclusion, the Evolv Defy and the La Sportiva Tarantula are both great shoes for climbers of all levels. Both shoes offer excellent features, such as their closure systems, materials, and shapes, that make them suitable for different types of climbing. But ultimately, it comes down to personal preference as to which one is best for you.