Our verdict
Scarpa’s climbing shoe collection has been earning recognition from newbies and intermediate-to-advanced climbers, and the Chimera is one of the brand’s successful products. The shoe in question has a comfortable feel, grippy rubber outsole, and edging and smearing prowess. It is also quite a sensitive shoe.
Pros
- Lack of toe-hooking performance
- Surprisingly comfortable
- Impressive sensitivity
- Incredibly soft
- Uber-sticky rubber
- La Sportiva’s Tarantulace
- Excellent surface traction
Cons
- Add a product
- Lack of toe-hooking performance
- Want a reliable shoe that protects the foot while keeping its shape even after several uses.
Who should buy the Scarpa Chimera
The Scarpa Chimera is an astonishing sending tool, thanks to its collection of climb-centric qualities. It is a solid option if you:
- Scarpa Chimera vs. Drago.
- Want a reliable shoe that protects the foot while keeping its shape even after several uses.
- Provides magnificent toe-hooking support.
Track and field
The Chimera from Scarpa sports a 3.5 mm Vibram XS Grip 2 outsole. This sturdy material yields stickiness in almost all types of rock conditions.
Provides magnificent toe-hooking support
Scarpa Chimera features a 1 mm TPS midsole. It is a thermoshapable insert placed under the forefoot that provides enhanced support when toe-hooking.
Superb climbing shoe
When smearing, this midsole extends; thus, promoting movement and widening the surface area that is in contact with the ground.
Top 26% in
Performance is further enhanced by the Power Connection Band or PCB tension system. It transfers the power from the toe zone to the heel.
Durable and abrasion-resistant
This Scarpa product uses an unlined microsuede for its upper. This synthetic material protects the foot against abrasion from rough rock surfaces. The elongated rubber patch in the toe area amplifies its durability.
Easy to wear
The Chimera uses a vacuum-like lacing system for fit management. Additionally, pull loops assist the wearers in a smooth on and off.
La Sportiva’s Tarantulace
These two rock climbing shoes share a lot of features in common. The Chimera, as Scarpa advertised, is the lace-up version of the sought-after Drago. The Drago rock shoe is handcrafted in Italy and is designed by an Austrian climber and mountaineer, Heinz Mariacher. He was also the brain behind the design of the well-known La Sportiva’s Tarantulace. While the two may be similar in some aspects, both have features that make each one distinct. Its differences are discussed below.
Closure system. The Scarpa’s Chimera has a vacuum-like lace-up closure system that allows users to customize its fit. On the other hand, the Drago from Scarpa uses a hook-and-loop closure, foot wrap system offering a snug fit as well as the convenience of easy slip on and off.
Performance. The Chimera is optimized to perform in the most demanding projects and routes with its grippy Vibram outsole and enhanced support features. The Drago from Scarpa, meanwhile, yields heightened sensitivity and friction levels. Combined with a light microfiber upper, the climber’s performance when bouldering and sport climbing is enhanced.
Nice to know
- Track and field La Sportiva’s Tarantulace.
