Comparison Table
| Feature | Otaki | Katana |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Narrow | Wide |
| Type of Climbing | Technical face climbing and long multi-pitch routes | Long, less technical routes |
| Sole Stiffness | Stiff | Soft |
| Shape | Asymmetrical | Symmetrical |
| Closure System | P3 | P3 |
| Materials | Synthetic leather, breathable mesh upper, EVA foam midsole, Vibram rubber outsole | Synthetic leather, breathable mesh upper, EVA foam midsole, XS Grip rubber outsole |
| Price | $140 | $120 |
Fit
The Otaki has an asymmetrical shape and is especially good for those with narrower feet. It has a fairly stiff midsole and a snug fit that keeps your feet in place. On the other hand, the Katana has a symmetrical shape and fits wider feet better. It also has a softer midsole and provides a comfortable and secure fit.
Type of Climbing
The Otaki is best suited for technical face climbing and long multi-pitch climbs. The shoe’s stiffness and narrow fit allows you to edge confidently on small holds. The Katana, on the other hand, is better for longer, less technical routes. Its soft midsole provides more comfort for those long days on the wall.
Sole Stiffness
The Otaki has a stiff midsole, which provides support and allows you to edge confidently. The Katana, however, has a softer midsole, which makes it more comfortable for long days of climbing.
Shape
The Otaki has an asymmetrical shape that is designed to fit narrow feet better. The heel is slightly downturned and the toe is slightly upturned. The Katana, on the other hand, has a symmetrical shape and fits wider feet better. The heel and toe are neither downturned nor upturned.
Closure System
Both the Otaki and the Katana use La Sportiva’s patented P3 closure system. This system consists of two velcro straps and a single hook-and-loop closure. The straps and closure are easy to adjust and provide a secure fit.
Materials
The Otaki is made of a synthetic leather and a breathable mesh upper. The midsole is made of a high-quality EVA foam and the outsole is made of Vibram rubber. The Katana is also made of synthetic leather and a breathable mesh upper. The midsole is made of a softer EVA foam and the outsole is made of XS Grip rubber.
Price
The Otaki retails for around $140, while the Katana retails for around $120.Personal Preference
Ultimately, the choice between the Otaki and the Katana comes down to personal preference. If you have narrow feet, the Otaki is a great choice for technical face climbing and long multi-pitch routes. The Katana is better for those with wider feet and for longer, less technical routes.
Toe Box Shape
The Otaki has an asymmetrical toe box shape that is designed to fit narrow feet better. The Katana, on the other hand, has a symmetrical toe box shape that fits wider feet better.
Heel Cup
The Otaki has a slightly downturned heel cup that provides support and helps keep your feet in place. The Katana has a slightly more relaxed heel cup that is comfortable for longer days on the wall.
Weight
The Otaki weighs 8.8 ounces, while the Katana weighs 8.2 ounces.
Level of Ventilation
Both shoes have a breathable mesh upper that provides excellent ventilation. There is no significant difference in the level of ventilation between the two shoes.
In conclusion, the La Sportiva Otaki and La Sportiva Katana are two excellent rock-climbing shoes. They offer a comfortable and secure fit, excellent construction and materials, and great performance. Which one is right for you? Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preference and your budget.