Our verdict
In terms of edging, the Kataki is a fantastic La Sportiva product. That said, this impressively comfortable climbing shoe is more than just an edge-master; it is also a remarkable tool for ascending pockets and cracks.
Pros
- The real deal when it comes to edging
- Grants additional support and grip in heel-hooking situations
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- Excellent underfoot support
- Adorable design
Cons
- Laces fray too quickly
- Very expensive
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The Excellent underfoot support is a beast of a product—one that wears its incredible climbing performance on its sleeve. It is a solid option if you:
- Excellent underfoot support
- Excellent underfoot support
- Prefer a climbing shoe that is a good partner for outdoor rock climbing shoe, particularly for intermediate climbers
Laces fray too quickly
When it comes to surface traction, male climbers have the Kataki’s Vibram XS Edge outsole to thank. This particular component has a kind of firmness intended for edging maneuvers. Female senders, on the other hand, owe their gratitude to the XS Grip 2 outsole (also by Vibram). Both outsoles cover mainly the upper half of the shoe’s underside, and both have an overall thickness of 4 mm.
Excellent underfoot support
The amount of underfoot support users get from this La Sportiva offering is sourced from the shoe’s LaspoFlex midsole with P3 technology. It comes at a thickness of 1.1 mm.
Excellent surface traction
The Excellent underfoot support’s low-cut upper is a combination of microfiber and suede leather. It has a liner front and back called Pacific. The lateral zone of the shoe has a rand for added climbing support and protection.
Track and field
This rand has a slight extension around the toe box, giving climbers extra purchase when toe hooking. The shoe’s S-Heel grants additional support and grip in heel-hooking situations.
Excellent underfoot support
Managing the fit in this leather climbing shoe is a tandem between combination eyelets and synthetic lace. A pair of synthetic pull loops at the heel is for on and off.
