Climbing Shoe Comparison: La Sportiva Theory Vs Futura
The world of climbing shoes is vast and varied, with so many different models and styles to choose from. But two of the most popular climbing shoes are the La Sportiva Theory and the Futura. To help you decide which one is best for you, here is a comparison of the two shoes.
| La Sportiva Theory | Futura | |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Medium | Medium/Aggressive |
| Type of Climbing | All-around | Sport/Bouldering |
| Sole Stiffness | Medium | Medium/Stiff |
| Shape | Curved | Straight |
| Closure System | Laces | Laces and Velcro |
| Materials | Leather/Synthetic | Leather/Synthetic |
| Price | Moderate | Moderate |
Fit
The La Sportiva Theory and the Futura both offer a medium fit. The Theory has a slightly wider toe box that allows for a more comfortable fit, while the Futura has a more precise, performance-oriented fit. Both shoes are designed to offer good foot support during climbing sessions, but the Theory has a bit more room for those who want a relaxed fit.
The Theory also has an upper that is slightly more flexible than the Futura. This allows the shoe to adjust to the shape of your foot more easily, providing a better fit. However, the Futura has an aggressive fit that can offer more support and stability when climbing.
The last difference in fit between the Theory and the Futura is the heel cup. The Theory has a slightly stiffer heel cup that can provide a more secure fit, while the Futura has a softer heel cup that is more comfortable.
Type of Climbing
The La Sportiva Theory is an all-around climbing shoe that is suitable for a variety of climbing styles. It is designed for long routes and multi-pitch climbs as well as bouldering and sport climbing. The Theory is also a great shoe for beginner climbers who want to get accustomed to the different climbing styles.
The Futura, on the other hand, is designed for sport and bouldering. It is a performance-oriented shoe that offers excellent edging capabilities and heel hooking power. The Futura is also great for overhangs and steep terrain, thanks to its aggressive fit and stiff sole.
Sole Stiffness
The La Sportiva Theory has a medium-stiff sole that provides good edging and support while climbing. The midsole is made from a combination of EVA and P3 technology that gives the shoe good shock absorption and support.
The Futura also has a medium-stiff sole, but it is slightly stiffer than the Theory. This makes the Futura a great shoe for support on overhangs and steep terrain, as well as for edging on more technical routes.
Shape
The La Sportiva Theory has a curved shape, which allows the shoe to fit the shape of your foot and provide more comfort. The curve helps to provide more support and stability while climbing.
The Futura has a straight shape, which offers more precision and power. The straight shape helps to distribute weight more evenly across the shoe, which helps with edging and heel hooking.
Closure System
The La Sportiva Theory has a traditional lacing system, which provides a good, secure fit. The laces are made from a durable material, making them great for long-term use.
The Futura has a combination lacing and Velcro system, which allows for a more precise fit. The laces provide a secure fit, and the Velcro closure helps to keep the laces in place and keep the heel of the shoe secure.
Materials
Both the La Sportiva Theory and the Futura are made from a combination of leather and synthetic materials. The leather upper provides durability and breathability. The synthetic materials help to provide support, while also adding durability and water resistance.
Price
The La Sportiva Theory and the Futura are both priced moderately. The Theory has a slightly higher price tag, but the price difference is not much. Both shoes are great value for their price, so you won’t have to break the bank to get a good pair of climbing shoes.Personal Preference
Ultimately, the decision of which shoe to buy comes down to personal preference. The La Sportiva Theory and the Futura are both great climbing shoes that offer good performance, so it’s up to you to decide which one is best for you.
Toe Box Shape
The La Sportiva Theory has a slightly wider toe box than the Futura, which allows for a more comfortable fit. The wider toe box also helps to reduce foot fatigue when climbing.
The Futura has a more precise toe box shape, which helps to provide a better performance fit. The precision fit also helps to provide more support when climbing on overhangs and technical terrain.
Heel Cup
The La Sportiva Theory has a slightly stiffer heel cup than the Futura. This helps to provide a more secure fit and better support when climbing.
The Futura has a softer heel cup that is more comfortable. The softer heel cup helps to reduce heel slippage when climbing.
Weight
The La Sportiva Theory and the Futura both weigh in at around 8.8 ounces. The Theory is slightly heavier than the Futura, but the difference is not too noticeable.
Level of Ventilation
The La Sportiva Theory has good ventilation thanks to its leather upper and perforated footbed. The perforations help to keep your feet cool and dry during long climbing sessions.
The Futura also has good ventilation thanks to its leather upper and perforated footbed. The perforations help to keep your feet cool and dry when climbing.
In conclusion, the La Sportiva Theory and the Futura are both great shoes for climbing. Both shoes offer good performance and value for their price. The Theory has a slightly more comfortable fit, while the Futura has a more performance-oriented fit. So, when it comes to deciding which one is best for you, it really comes down to personal preference.