Comparing the Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor
| Scarpa Quantic | Scarpa Vapor | |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Aggressive | Aggressive |
| Type of Climbing | All-around | Bouldering |
| Sole Stiffness | Medium | Medium-Soft |
| Shape | Low-volume asymmetric | Low-volume asymmetric |
| Closure System | Velcro | Velcro |
| Materials | Microsuede, Lorica | Microsuede |
| Price | $140 | $170 |
| Personal Preference | Personal Preference | Personal Preference |
| Toe Box Shape | Low-volume, low-curve | Low-volume, low-curve |
| Heel Cup | Aggressive, downturned | Aggressive, downturned |
| Weight | ~9.2 oz | ~9.6 oz |
| Level of Ventilation | Good | Poor |
Fit
The fit is one of the most important aspects of any climbing shoe. The Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor both feature an aggressive fit, meaning they provide a secure and snug fit. The heel cup and toe box shape of the two shoes are quite similar, and both are low-volume and low-curve. The Quantic is slightly more comfortable, as it has a slightly higher volume in the toe box, making it ideal for climbers with wider feet.
The Quantic also has an adjustable closure system, allowing you to customize the fit according to your needs. The Vapor, on the other hand, has a fixed closure system, which can be less comfortable for those with wider feet. Both shoes offer a secure fit, but the Quantic’s adjustable closure system gives it the edge.
Type of Climbing
The type of climbing the shoe is intended for is an important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. The Scarpa Quantic is an all-around shoe, suitable for all types of climbing. It offers a good balance between edging and smearing, making it a great choice for both sport and trad climbing. The Vapor, on the other hand, is a bouldering-specific shoe. It is designed with a slightly softer sole, making it ideal for pushing hard on small edges and smearing on steep terrain.
Sole Stiffness
The stiffness of the sole is another important factor to consider when choosing the right climbing shoe. The Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor both feature a medium sole stiffness, making them suitable for a wide range of climbing. The Quantic offers a slightly stiffer sole, which is ideal for edging, while the Vapor’s slightly softer sole is better suited for smearing.
Shape
The shape of the shoe is an important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. Both the Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor feature a low-volume asymmetric shape, which is designed to provide a secure and precise fit. The Quantic’s shape is slightly more aggressive, providing a secure fit for those with narrow feet. The Vapor’s shape is slightly less aggressive, making it a great choice for those with wider feet.
Closure System
The closure system is another important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. The Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor both feature a velcro closure system, which offers a secure and adjustable fit. The Quantic’s adjustable closure system allows you to customize the fit according to your needs, while the Vapor’s fixed closure system is less customizable.
Materials
The materials used in the construction of the shoe are also an important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. The Scarpa Quantic is constructed with a combination of microsuede and Lorica, while the Vapor is constructed with microsuede. Both materials are lightweight and breathable, making them ideal for climbing. The Quantic’s Lorica material is slightly more durable, making it a better choice for those who are looking for a long-lasting shoe.
Price
Personal Preference
When it comes to choosing the right climbing shoe, personal preference is key. You should consider your needs and the type of climbing you do before deciding which shoe is right for you. The Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor are both excellent shoes, but the Quantic is better suited for those who prefer a secure fit. The Vapor is better suited for those who prefer a slightly softer sole.
Toe Box Shape
The toe box shape is an important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. Both the Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor feature a low-volume, low-curve toe box shape. This shape is designed to provide a precise and secure fit, allowing you to push hard on small edges and smearing. The Quantic’s toe box shape is slightly more aggressive, providing a better fit for those with narrow feet.
Heel Cup
The heel cup is another important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. Both the Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor feature an aggressive, downturned heel cup. This shape provides a secure and precise fit, allowing you to push hard on small edges without slipping. The Quantic’s heel cup is slightly more aggressive, providing a better fit for those with narrow feet.
Weight
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. The Scarpa Quantic weighs ~9.2 oz, while the Vapor weighs ~9.6 oz. The Quantic is slightly lighter, making it a better choice for those who prefer a light and nimble shoe.
Level of Ventilation
The level of ventilation is an important factor to consider when choosing the right shoe. The Scarpa Quantic offers good ventilation, thanks to its breathable materials and adjustable closure system. The Vapor, on the other hand, offers poor ventilation, as its fixed closure system and breathable materials do not provide enough airflow.
After looking at the features of each shoe side by side, it is clear that the Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor are both great climbing shoes. The Quantic is better suited for those who prefer a secure and adjustable fit, while the Vapor is better suited for those who prefer a slightly softer sole and a focus on bouldering. Ultimately, the choice of which shoe is right for you comes down to personal preference.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Scarpa Quantic and the Vapor are both excellent climbing shoes. The Quantic is better suited for those who prefer a secure and adjustable fit, while the Vapor is better suited for those who prefer a slightly softer sole and a focus on bouldering. Ultimately, the choice of which shoe is right for you comes down to personal preference.