La Sportiva Skwama and Scarpa Chimera: A Comparison
When it comes to climbing shoes, the La Sportiva Skwama and the Scarpa Chimera are two of the most popular options on the market. Both shoes have their own unique features and advantages, so which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll explore the differences between the La Sportiva Skwama and the Scarpa Chimera, so you can make an informed decision when selecting your climbing shoes.
| Feature | La Sportiva Skwama | Scarpa Chimera |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Moderately Aggressive | Aggressive |
| Type of Climbing | Bouldering | Sport |
| Sole Stiffness | Medium | Medium |
| Shape | Curved | Flat |
| Closure System | Lace-up | Velcro |
| Materials | Synthetic | Leather |
| Price | Middle Range | High-end |
Fit
The La Sportiva Skwama is designed with a moderately aggressive fit, making it ideal for climbers who prefer a snug but comfortable fit in their shoes. On the other hand, the Scarpa Chimera has a much more aggressive fit, which is great for climbers who want a more precise fit. The Chimera also features a slightly lower-volume toe box, allowing for a more precise fit.
In terms of flexibility, the Skwama is slightly more flexible than the Chimera. The Skwama’s upper is made of a softer synthetic material that conforms to the foot and allows for greater flexibility. On the other hand, the Chimera’s upper is made of a stiffer leather, providing slightly more support and stability.
The Skwama and Chimera both feature a heel cup that is designed to provide a secure fit, but the Skwama’s heel cup is slightly wider and more comfortable than the Chimera’s.
Type of Climbing
The Skwama is designed for bouldering, which typically involves short, powerful moves and requires a shoe with a moderate level of stiffness. The Skwama’s medium stiffness sole and moderately aggressive fit makes it great for climbers who want a balance of precision and comfort.
On the other hand, the Chimera is designed for sport climbing, which can involve long periods of standing on small edges and requires a shoe with a higher level of stiffness. The Chimera’s medium stiffness sole and aggressive fit make it great for climbers who need a precise fit for long pitches.
Sole Stiffness
Both the Skwama and the Chimera feature a medium stiffness sole. This provides a good balance of support and sensitivity, allowing for a comfortable fit while still providing the precision needed to perform on technical routes. The Skwama’s sole is slightly smaller than the Chimera’s, making it slightly more sensitive.
Shape
The Skwama has a slightly curved shape, while the Chimera has a slightly flatter shape. This difference in shape affects the way that the shoe fits on the foot, with the Skwama providing a more comfortable fit and the Chimera providing a more precise fit.
Closure System
The Skwama features a lace-up closure system, which allows for a more customizable fit. On the other hand, the Chimera features a Velcro closure system, which provides a more secure fit but may not be as adjustable as the Skwama’s lace-up system.
Materials
The Skwama features a synthetic upper, which is designed to be both lightweight and durable. The Chimera features a leather upper, which is more durable than the Skwama’s but may not be as breathable.
Price
The Skwama is priced in the middle range, making it a great option for climbers who are looking for a quality shoe without breaking the bank. The Chimera is priced at the high-end, making it a great option for climbers who want a top-tier performance shoe.Personal Preference
When it comes down to it, choosing between the Skwama and the Chimera is really a matter of personal preference. It all depends on what type of climbing you prefer and what kind of fit works best for you.
Toe Box Shape
The Skwama is designed with a wider toe box shape, while the Chimera is designed with a slightly lower-volume toe box. The Skwama’s wider toe box allows for more wiggle room, while the Chimera’s lower-volume toe box provides a more precise fit.
Heel Cup
The Skwama features a wider heel cup than the Chimera, which provides more comfort and stability. The Chimera’s heel cup is slightly narrower, allowing for a more precise fit.
Weight
The Skwama is slightly heavier than the Chimera. The Skwama weighs in at 8.9 ounces, while the Chimera weighs in at 8.2 ounces. This difference may not be noticeable while climbing, but it can make a difference when carrying your shoes around.
Level of Ventilation
The Skwama’s synthetic upper is designed to be breathable, making it a great option for climbers who want a shoe that keeps their feet cool and comfortable. On the other hand, the Chimera’s leather upper is not as breathable, but it does provide more support and durability.
In conclusion, both the La Sportiva Skwama and the Scarpa Chimera are great options for climbers. The Skwama is designed for comfort and precision, while the Chimera is designed for precision and durability. It all comes down to personal preference and what type of climbing you prefer. No matter which shoe you choose, you can be sure that you’ll have a great experience.