La Sportiva Skwama vs. Futura Climbing Shoes
When it comes to choosing the right climbing shoe, the decision can be difficult, as there are so many options available. The La Sportiva Skwama and Futura are two popular shoes among climbers, and with good reason. By comparing the fit, type of climbing, sole stiffness, shape, closure system, materials, and other features, climbers will be able to make the best decision for their needs.
| La Sportiva Skwama | Futura | |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Secure, snug | Secure, snug |
| Type of Climbing | Technical edging, hard overhangs | Strong and powerful routes |
| Sole Stiffness | Stiffer | Softer |
| Shape | Downturned with asymmetrical toe box | Neutral toe box |
| Closure System | Slip-on with velcro | Lacing system |
| Materials | Lorica, leather, synthetic | Synthetic and leather |
| Price | Cheaper | Similar |
| Toe Box | Asymmetrical | Neutral |
| Heel Cup | Anatomically shaped | Neutral |
| Weight | Lighter | Similar |
| Level of Ventilation | Excellent | Good |
Fit
The La Sportiva Skwama and Futura both provide an incredibly secure and snug fit. The Skwama is designed to fit like a glove and provide support while climbing. Its Sensitive Fit System (SFS) is designed to wrap around your foot evenly and hug your foot in all the right places. The Futura also provides an incredibly snug fit and is designed to increase sensitivity. The anatomically shaped heel cup and lace-up closure system ensure that the shoe fits perfectly against your foot.
Type of Climbing
The type of climbing you’ll be doing will play an important role in choosing the right shoe. The Skwama is designed for technical edging and hard overhangs, while the Futura is designed for steep and powerful routes. With the Skwama, you’ll get the support you need for precise and precise footwork, while with the Futura, you’ll get the extra power you need to push yourself on difficult routes.
Sole Stiffness
The stiffness of the sole plays an important role in the performance of the shoe. The Skwama has a slightly stiffer sole than the Futura, which is perfect for edging and technical routes. The Futura has a slightly softer sole, which is better suited for smearing and powerful routes.
Shape
The Skwama has a downturned shape with an asymmetrical toe box, while the Futura has a more neutral shape with a slightly downturned toe box. The Skwama is designed for technical routes and offers maximum control, while the Futura has a more neutral shape for smearing and powerful routes.
Closure System
The closure system of a shoe can also play an important role in the performance of the shoe. The Skwama has a slip-on design with a velcro closure system, while the Futura has a lacing system for a secure fit. The slip-on design of the Skwama makes it easy to get on and off, while the lacing system of the Futura allows for a secure and snug fit.
Materials
The Skwama is made from a blend of Lorica, leather, and a synthetic upper, while the Futura is made from a blend of synthetic and leather. The materials used in the Skwama provide excellent durability, while the materials used in the Futura provide a comfortable and breathable fit.
Price
The price of the two shoes is similar, but the Skwama tends to be a bit cheaper.Personal Preference
The right climbing shoe will depend on the climber’s preferences and the type of climbing they will be doing.
Toe Box Shape
The toe box shape is also an important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. The Skwama has an asymmetrical toe box, which is designed for technical routes, while the Futura has a slightly more neutral toe box, which is better suited for smearing and powerful routes.
Heel Cup
The heel cup is also important when choosing the right shoe. The Skwama has an anatomically shaped heel cup for support and a snug fit, while the Futura has a slightly more neutral heel cup for increased comfort.
Weight
The Skwama is slightly lighter than the Futura, making it a great choice for long routes.
Level of Ventilation
The level of ventilation is also an important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. The Skwama has excellent breathability, while the Futura has slightly better ventilation.
Both the La Sportiva Skwama and Futura are great climbing shoes that offer an incredibly secure and snug fit. The type of climbing, sole stiffness, and other factors should be considered when choosing the right shoe. The Skwama is designed for technical routes and offers maximum control, while the Futura is designed for smearing and powerful routes. Ultimately, the right climbing shoe will depend on the climber’s preferences and the type of climbing they will be doing.