Rock Climbing Shoes: Scarpa Instinct vs. X VSR
Comparison Table
| Feature | Scarpa Instinct | X VSR |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Slipper-like fit; adjustable velcro strap | Secure fit; adjustable lace-up closure |
| Type of Climbing | Technical, precise climbing | Casual climbing |
| Sole Stiffness | Stiff sole; aggressive downturned shape | Softer sole; more neutral shape |
| Shape | Asymmetric shape; downturned toe box | Symmetric shape; wider toe box |
| Closure System | Velcro strap | Lace-up closure |
| Materials | Synthetic upper with suede leather toe box | Synthetic upper with rubber rand |
| Price | Comparable | Comparable |
| Toe Box Shape | Downturned toe box | Wider toe box |
| Heel Cup | Aggressive heel cup | Softer heel cup |
| Weight | 8.5 ounces (size 40) | 8 ounces (size 40) |
| Level of Ventilation | Mesh and synthetic materials | Synthetic upper with rubber rand |
Fit
The Scarpa Instincts feature a slipper-like fit that is both comfortable and snug. The shoe shape is designed to wrap the foot comfortably and provide a precision fit. The X VSR shoes, on the other hand, provide a more secure fit. The heel has additional padding and the rubber rand around the edges of the shoe helps to provide a secure fit.
The shoes of both brands also feature an adjustable strap for a more precise fit. The Instincts have a velcro closure system, which gives them more adjustability and customization. The X VSR shoes, on the other hand, have a lace-up closure which provides a more secure and customizable fit.
The final fit of the shoes is determined by the type of sole that you choose. The Scarpa Instincts feature an aggressive downturned sole that is designed for edging, while the X VSR shoes feature a more neutral sole that is designed for comfort.
Type of Climbing
The Scarpa Instincts are designed for more technical and precise climbing. They feature an aggressive sole that offers great precision and power when edging on small footholds. The X VSR shoes, on the other hand, are designed for more casual climbing. The sole is a bit softer and the overall shoe design is more comfortable.
Sole Stiffness
The Scarpa Instincts feature a stiff sole that is designed for edging. The sole provides great precision and power when edging on small footholds. The X VSR shoes, on the other hand, feature a softer sole that is designed for comfort. The slightly softer sole provides additional cushioning when climbing on more comfortable surfaces.
Shape
The Scarpa Instincts feature an asymmetric shape that is designed to help support the natural shape of the foot. The toe box is slightly downturned, which gives the foot greater precision when edging. The X VSR shoes feature a more symmetric shape with a slightly wider toe box. The toe box is designed to provide additional comfort when climbing on more comfortable surfaces.
Closure System
The Instincts feature a velcro strap closure system that offers great adjustability and customization. The X VSR shoes have a lace-up closure system that provides a more secure and comfortable fit.
Materials
The Scarpa Instincts feature a combination of synthetic upper materials and suede leather on the toe box. The X VSR shoes feature a synthetic upper material with a rubber rand around the edges for durability.
Price
Personal Preference
At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference. Some climbers prefer the precision and power of the Scarpa Instincts, while others prefer the comfort and adjustability of the X VSR shoes. It really comes down to the type of climbing you plan to do and the features that you prefer.
Toe Box Shape
The Scarpa Instincts feature a slightly downturned toe box that provides greater precision when edging. The X VSR shoes feature a wider toe box that provides additional comfort when climbing on more comfortable surfaces.
Heel Cup
The Scarpa Instincts feature an aggressive heel cup that is designed to provide secure heel hooking. The X VSR shoes feature a softer heel cup that provides additional cushioning when climbing on more comfortable surfaces.
Weight
The Scarpa Instincts are slightly heavier than the X VSR shoes. The shoes weigh in at 8.5 ounces for a size 40 and the X VSR shoes weigh in at 8 ounces for a size 40.
Level of Ventilation
The Scarpa Instincts feature a combination of mesh and synthetic materials that provide great ventilation. The X VSR shoes feature a synthetic upper material and a rubber rand around the edges that helps to provide breathability and ventilation.
When it comes to choosing rock climbing shoes, it is essential to compare the features of different brands. The Scarpa Instincts and X VSR both offer great features, depending on the type of climbing you plan to do. The Scarpa Instincts feature a slipper-like fit with an adjustable velcro closure system and an aggressive sole that is designed for edging. The X VSR shoes provide a more secure fit with a lace-up closure system, a softer sole, and a wider toe box that provides comfort when climbing on more comfortable surfaces.
At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference. Both shoes offer great features and it is up to you to decide which shoes best suit your needs. Consider the type of climbing you plan to do, the features that you prefer, and the budget you have in mind when choosing between the Scarpa Instincts and the X VSR shoes.
No matter which shoes you choose, you can be sure that you are investing in a quality product from two of the leading brands in rock climbing shoes.