Overview of the Scarpa Vapor V and Vapor V XS Edge
If you’re an avid climber, you’re probably very familiar with the Scarpa brand. For decades, Scarpa has produced high-quality climbing shoes that have been used by everyone from beginner climbers to professional mountaineers. Two of the most popular models from Scarpa are the Vapor V and the Vapor V XS Edge. Although both shoes are designed for performance climbing, there are some key differences between them. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between the two shoes, discuss their fit, review the type of climbing they’re best suited for, and look at the sole stiffness, shape, closure system, materials, price, level of ventilation, toe box shape and heel cup.
| Feature | Vapor V | Vapor V XS Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Aggressive | Moderate |
| Type of Climbing | Sport | All |
| Sole Stiffness | Stiff | Medium |
| Shape | Asymmetrical | Asymmetrical |
| Closure System | Laces | Velcro |
| Materials | Leather | Synthetic |
| Price | High | Moderate |
Fit
The Scarpa Vapor V is an aggressive climbing shoe designed for performance climbing. It has a snug fit with a curved shape that helps to wrap around your foot and provide a secure hold. This is great for advanced climbers who are looking for maximal support and power. On the other hand, the Vapor V XS Edge is a more moderate shoe that is designed for all-around climbing. It has a slightly roomier fit that is comfortable enough for long days at the crag, but still provides enough support for performance climbing.
Type of Climbing
The Vapor V is designed for sport climbing and is ideal for long routes that require precision and technical footwork. The snug fit allows you to edge and smear with confidence, while the stiff sole helps to transfer power from your feet to the holds. On the other hand, the Vapor V XS Edge is designed for all-around climbing, meaning it can handle everything from bouldering to trad climbing. The moderate fit provides enough comfort for long days at the crag, while the medium sole stiffness gives you enough support to climb with confidence.
Sole Stiffness
The Vapor V has a stiff sole that is designed to provide maximum power and support while edging. The stiff sole helps to transfer energy from your feet to the holds and helps to keep your feet in place while climbing. On the other hand, the Vapor V XS Edge has a medium sole stiffness that provides a balance between comfort and support. This is great for all-around climbing, as it gives you enough support to edging and smearing with confidence, while still providing enough comfort for long days at the crag.
Shape
Both the Vapor V and Vapor V XS Edge feature an asymmetrical shape that helps to wrap around your foot and provide a secure hold. The shape of the Vapor V is slightly more curved than the Vapor V XS Edge, making it more suitable for performance climbing. However, the Vapor V XS Edge still has an asymmetrical shape that gives you enough support for all-around climbing.
Closure System
The Vapor V features a lace-up closure system that helps to provide a secure fit. The laces are made from a durable material that is designed to resist stretching and fraying, while the metal eyelets help to keep the laces in place. On the other hand, the Vapor V XS Edge features a velcro closure system that is easy to use and helps to provide a snug and secure fit. The velcro straps are made from a durable material that resists stretching and fraying, while the buckle helps to keep the straps in place.
Materials
The Vapor V is made from a full leather upper that provides durability and comfort. The leather is treated with a water-resistant coating to help keep your feet dry, while the suede tongue helps to provide breathability. On the other hand, the Vapor V XS Edge is made from a combination of synthetic and leather materials. The synthetic material helps to provide durability and breathability, while the leather provides comfort and water resistance.
Price
The price of the Scarpa Vapor V is slightly higher than the Vapor V XS Edge. This is due to the higher quality materials used in the Vapor V, as well as the more advanced design. However, both shoes are relatively affordable and offer great value for money.Personal Preference
When it comes to choosing the right shoe, it’s important to take your personal preferences into account. If you’re a performance climber who is looking for maximum support and power, then the Vapor V might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an all-around shoe that provides comfort and support, then the Vapor V XS Edge might be the better choice.
Toe Box Shape
The toe box shape of the Vapor V is slightly more pointed than the Vapor V XS Edge. This helps to provide precision for edging, while the slightly curved shape helps to provide comfort for smearing. On the other hand, the Vapor V XS Edge has a more rounded toe box shape that is great for all-around climbing. The rounded shape helps to provide comfort and support, while still allowing you to edge and smear with confidence.
Heel Cup
The heel cup of the Vapor V is slightly more aggressive than the Vapor V XS Edge. This helps to provide a secure hold and helps to keep your feet in place while climbing. The heel cup of the Vapor V XS Edge is slightly more relaxed, which helps to provide comfort and support, while still giving you enough power to perform with confidence.
Weight
The Vapor V and Vapor V XS Edge both weigh in at 8.6 oz (size 7.5). This is relatively light for a climbing shoe and helps to provide comfort and support, while still allowing you to move quickly and efficiently.
Level of Ventilation
The Vapor V has a slightly higher level of ventilation than the Vapor V XS Edge. This is due to the mesh upper and breathable tongue, which helps to keep your feet cool and comfortable while climbing. On the other hand, the Vapor V XS Edge has a synthetic upper with a breathable tongue, which helps to provide a moderate level of ventilation.
Conclusion
Overall, the Scarpa Vapor V and Vapor V XS Edge are two of the most popular climbing shoes from the Scarpa brand. Both shoes are designed for performance climbing, but they have some key differences. The Vapor V is an aggressive shoe with a stiff sole and a lace-up closure system, while the Vapor V XS Edge is a more moderate shoe with a medium sole stiffness and a velcro closure system. Ultimately, the choice of which shoe to buy will depend on your personal preferences and the type of climbing you’re looking to do.