Our verdict
Those who are looking for a pair of comfy, eco-friendly climbing shoes can enjoy the Cobra Eco from La Sportiva. The admirable traits of this product include a sufficient amount of sensitivity, out-of-the-box comfort, and a sticky outsole. Not to mention, it is also praised for its high-volume fit. However, stretch-wise, this climb-centric piece might be a tough sell for some.
Pros
- Exhilarating comfort
- Adorable sensitivity
- Zero break-in period
- A sturdy and sticky rubber wraps the upper, providing maximum performance on slabs and plastics
- Super sticky
- Accommodating fit
Cons
- Does not give much protection
- Too stretchy
Who should buy the Tongue Pull Loop Eco
The Tongue Pull Loop Eco provides more than enough reasons for climbers—whether newbies or advanced—to check it out. It is a solid option if you:
- Prefer a climbing shoe that delivers low environmental impact.
- Prefer a climbing shoe that optimizes excellent flexibility.
- Prefer a climbing shoe that yields grip without sacrificing comfort.
The Tongue Pull Loop Eco's Profile
Downturn. The Cobra Eco wears a moderately-downturned profile. The style of this slipper-type rock shoe allows climbers to handle almost all types of terrain.
Applications. Cobra Eco is a slip-on shoe ideal for speed climbers and indoor gym-goers. Also, it offers optimal flexibility for use in a variety of climbing disciplines.
Size and fit
La Sportiva’s Cobra Eco caters to the male audience. Due to its unlined leather upper, it can stretch to about a full size.
The RL 45 last used in this product provides a round toe zone. It accommodates a medium-sized foot, making it ideal for both narrow and wide widths.
Excellent grip on rocky surfaces
This La Sportiva offering uses a 3 mm FriXion Eco outsole. This unit is made from recycled compounds yielding an optimal level of grip on rocks.
High level of sensitivity
Provides maximum torsional rigidity.
Provides maximum torsional rigidity
The Cobra Eco carries a 0.8 mm LaSpoFlex midsole placed in the toe area only. This ultra-thin synthetic laminate provides maximum torsional rigidity, preventing unwanted twisting of the ankle.
Environment-friendly
The upper of this rock shoe from La Sportiva employs an unlined Eco Idro-Perwanger leather (the same element used in the Mythos Eco). This environmentally friendly material uses a metal-free eco-tanning construction technique.
Excellent slab and plastic performance
Prefer a climbing shoe that optimizes excellent flexibility.
Easy to wear
Facilitating easy on and off are the dual tabs at the back of the shoe and the closure system’s elastic band.
Tongue Pull Loop Eco vs. Five Ten Moccasym
Individuals who prefer slipper (or slip-on) climbing shoes may also be interested in the Moccasym from Five Ten. How does it differ from the Cobra Eco? Read on to find out.
Pricing. The La Sportiva product retails for $140. This amount is $15 more expensive than the 5.10 offering.
Weight. A plus point goes to the Cobra Eco as it weighs 38 grams less than the Moccasym’s weight of 253 grams.
Sole thickness. Those who prefer a much rigid underfoot feel should opt for the 5.10 Moccasym as it comes with a 4.2 mm-thick Stealth outsole. On the other hand, climbers seeking for a softer, more sensitive feel may enjoy La Sportiva’s Cobra Eco as it only wears a 3 mm FriXion sole.