Climbing Footwear Showdown: La Sportiva Futura Vs Katana
As a rock climber, you know that choosing the right pair of climbing shoes can make all the difference. Footwear can be the difference between success and failure, so it’s essential that you get the right pair. Two of the most popular climbing shoes on the market today are La Sportiva’s Futura and the Katana. Let’s take a look at how they compare.
| Feature | La Sportiva Futura | La Sportiva Katana |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Flat | Flat |
| Type of Climbing | All-around | All-around |
| Sole Stiffness | Medium | Medium |
| Shape | Moderate asymmetry | Moderate asymmetry |
| Closure System | Laces | Laces |
| Materials | Leather & Vibram | Leather & Vibram |
| Price | High | High |
| Personal Preference | Dependent | Dependent |
| Toe Box Shape | Pointy | Pointy |
| Heel Cup | Moderate | Moderate |
| Weight | Light | Light |
| Level of Ventilation | Low | Low |
Fit
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana both have a flat fit, which means they are designed to fit the natural shape of your foot. This makes the shoes comfortable to wear for long periods of time and can help prevent blisters. The shoes also have a moderate level of asymmetry, which means they have a slightly downturned shape. This gives the climber more control over their feet when climbing.
The Futura and Katana both have a moderate toe-box shape and heel cup. This provides a snug fit while still allowing your feet to breathe. The shoes use lacing systems to keep your feet firmly in place and provide a secure fit.
Type of Climbing
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana are both designed for all-around climbing. This means they can be used for any type of climbing, from bouldering to sport and trad. The shoes are designed to provide the perfect balance of comfort and performance, so they can handle any type of terrain you throw at them.
The two shoes have different levels of sole stiffness. The Futura has a medium level of stiffness, which provides good edging performance without sacrificing comfort. The Katana has a slightly softer sole, which gives the climber more sensitivity, but can be less supportive on steep climbs.
Shape
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana both have a moderate asymmetry. This gives the climber more control over their feet when climbing. The shoes also have a pointy toe-box shape and moderate heel cup, which provides a snug fit.
The shape of the shoes also helps with edging, as the downturned shape gives the climber more leverage. The shoes also have a low profile, which helps minimize drag when climbing.
Closure System
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana both use laces to keep your feet firmly in place. The lacing system provides a secure fit while still allowing your feet to breathe. The shoes also use a tongue pull tab to make it easier to get them on and off.
Materials
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana both use leather and Vibram rubber in the construction of their shoes. The leather provides durability and breathability, while the Vibram rubber is used for the sole of the shoes. This combination of materials ensures that the shoes are lightweight and durable, and can handle any type of terrain.
Price
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana are both high-end climbing shoes. They are designed for the serious climber and come at a slightly higher price than other shoes on the market. However, the shoes are of high quality and are designed to last.Personal Preference
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana both have their pros and cons. Ultimately, it comes down to the individual climber’s personal preference. Some people may prefer the stiffness of the Futura, while others may prefer the sensitivity of the Katana. It’s important to try both shoes on and see which one works best for you.
Toe Box Shape
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana both have a pointy toe-box shape. This helps the climber maintain control over their feet while climbing. The toes can easily dig into small pockets and edges, which helps with edging and precision. The shape also helps with smearing and gives the climber more control over their feet.
Heel Cup
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana both have a moderate level of heel cup. This helps to keep your foot securely in place, so you don’t have to worry about your foot slipping or sliding out of the shoe. The heel cup also helps with edging, as it keeps your foot firmly in place.
Weight
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana are both lightweight shoes. This makes them comfortable to wear for long periods of time and helps to prevent fatigue. The shoes are also designed to be durable, so you don’t have to worry about them falling apart after a few uses.
Level of Ventilation
The La Sportiva Futura and Katana both have a low level of ventilation. This means that your feet won’t get too hot and sweaty when wearing them. The shoe’s leather and Vibram materials also provide breathability, so your feet stay dry and comfortable.
In conclusion, the La Sportiva Futura and Katana are both excellent all-around climbing shoes. They provide the perfect balance of comfort and performance, so they are suitable for all types of climbing. They also provide a secure fit and good levels of edging and precision. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and which shoe works best for you.