Overview
If you’re looking for the perfect climbing shoe to meet your needs, the Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro are two great options to consider. Both shoes are designed to provide the performance and comfort needed for long days out on the rocks. But these two shoes have some important differences that you should be aware of before making a purchase. In this article, we’ll compare the features of the Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro so you can make an informed decision about which shoe is right for you.
| Scarpa Instinct VSR | Evolv Agro | |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Moderate, semi-aggressive | Moderate, semi-aggressive |
| Type of Climbing | All-around | All-around |
| Sole Stiffness | Medium-stiff | Medium-stiff |
| Shape | Slightly down-turned | Slightly down-turned |
| Closure System | Velcro straps | Lace |
| Materials | Leather and synthetic upper, Vibram XS Edge sole | Leather and synthetic upper, TRAX SAS sole |
| Price | $185 | $160 |
Fit
When it comes to fit, both the Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro offer a moderately-aggressive, semi-asymmetric shape that provides a comfortable fit while still allowing you to perform advanced maneuvers on the wall. The Instinct VSR has a slightly more precise fit, while the Agro offers a slightly more relaxed fit.
In terms of closure systems, the Instinct VSR uses three velcro straps for a secure fit, while the Agro features a traditional lace-up closure system. Both systems provide a good fit, but the three velcro straps of the Instinct VSR offer more adjustability and a more secure fit.
Finally, both shoes feature a slightly down-turned shape that makes them well-suited for steep terrain and overhanging routes. The Instinct VSR has a slightly more pronounced downturn than the Agro, which makes it better suited for more advanced climbing.
Type of Climbing
The Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro are both designed for all-around climbing, making them great choices for everything from bouldering to sport climbing. The Instinct VSR is slightly better suited for steep climbing, while the Agro is a bit more versatile and can be used for a variety of climbing styles.
Both shoes feature a medium-stiff sole that provides enough support for long days on the wall without sacrificing sensitivity. The Instinct VSR has a slightly stiffer sole than the Agro, which gives it a slightly more precise feel on the wall.
Sole Stiffness
When it comes to sole stiffness, both the Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro feature a medium-stiff sole that provides the support needed for long days out on the wall without sacrificing sensitivity. The Instinct VSR has a slightly stiffer sole than the Agro, which gives it a slightly more precise feel on the wall.
The sole of the Instinct VSR is made from Vibram XS Edge rubber, which is a highly durable rubber compound that provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces. The Agro’s sole is made from TRAX SAS rubber, which is slightly softer than the Vibram XS Edge rubber but still provides great traction.
Shape
Both the Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro feature a slightly down-turned shape that makes them well-suited for steep terrain and overhanging routes. The Instinct VSR has a slightly more pronounced downturn than the Agro, which makes it better suited for more advanced climbing.
In terms of toe boxes, the Instinct VSR has a slightly more pointed toe box than the Agro, which enhances precision when toe-hooking. The Agro has a slightly rounded toe box, which provides more comfort when smearing.
Closure System
When it comes to closure systems, the Instinct VSR uses three velcro straps for a secure fit, while the Agro features a traditional lace-up closure system. Both systems provide a good fit, but the three velcro straps of the Instinct VSR offer more adjustability and a more secure fit.
The Instinct VSR also features a heel tab that makes it easier to get the shoe on and off. The Agro does not feature a heel tab, but its lace-up closure system makes it easier to adjust the fit for a more comfortable experience.
Materials
The Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro are both constructed with a combination of leather and synthetic materials. The Instinct VSR features a leather upper that provides superior breathability and durability, while the Agro has a synthetic upper that is lightweight and comfortable.
The sole of the Instinct VSR is made from Vibram XS Edge rubber, which is a highly durable rubber compound that provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces. The Agro’s sole is made from TRAX SAS rubber, which is slightly softer than the Vibram XS Edge rubber but still provides great traction.
Price
The Scarpa Instinct VSR retails for around $185, while the Evolv Agro retails for around $160. This makes the Agro a more affordable option, but the Instinct VSR offers slightly better performance and features.Personal Preference
Ultimately, the decision between the Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro comes down to personal preference. Both shoes offer a modern design and excellent performance, but the Instinct VSR is slightly more precise and better suited for advanced climbers. The Agro is a more affordable option and can be used for a variety of climbing styles.
Toe Box Shape
The Scarpa Instinct VSR has a slightly more pointed toe box than the Evolv Agro, which enhances precision when toe-hooking. The Agro has a slightly rounded toe box, which provides more comfort when smearing.
Heel Cup
Both the Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro feature a slightly downturned shape that is ideal for steep climbing. The Instinct VSR has a slightly more downturned shape than the Agro, which makes it better suited for more advanced climbing.
The Instinct VSR also features a slightly more precise heel cup that gives the shoe a more secure fit. The Agro’s heel cup is slightly less precise, but still provides a comfortable fit.
Weight
The Scarpa Instinct VSR weighs 10.1 ounces (286 grams), while the Evolv Agro weighs 8.8 ounces (250 grams). This makes the Agro a slightly lighter option, but the Instinct VSR offers better performance and features.
Level of Ventilation
Both the Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro feature a leather upper that provides superior breathability. The Instinct VSR has a slightly more breathable upper than the Agro, which makes it better suited for hot days on the wall.
In conclusion, the Scarpa Instinct VSR and the Evolv Agro are both excellent climbing shoes that will provide the performance and comfort you need for long days out on the rocks. The Instinct VSR is slightly better suited for advanced climbing and features a slightly more precise fit, while the Agro is a more affordable option and can be used for a variety of climbing styles. Ultimately, the decision between these two shoes comes down to personal preference, so make sure to try on both shoes and find the one that fits your needs the best.