Our verdict
In terms of edging, it is safe to say that the Katana Lace is among La Sportiva’s finest climbing shoes. It delivers a multi-faceted performance, making it one of the brand’s most versatile offerings yet. Although this piece has some shortcomings, its combination of comfort and well-rounded utility speaks volumes. Its overall sticking prowess is also impressive.
Pros
- Edging genius
- Incredibly comfy
- Surface magnet
- Crack climber
- Ace durability
- Intimate confines
Cons
- Smearing issues
- Why trust us
Who should buy the La Sportiva Katana Lace
Top 20% in:
- With its breathable tongue and moisture-wicking liner, the shoe makes for sweat-free ascents.
- You are looking for climbing footwear that helps feet stay fresh and dry.
What the Katana Lace rock shoe brings to the table
One of La Sportiva’s time-tested climbing shoes, the Katana Lace comes with a set of features that translate to versatility, whether indoors or outdoors. What follows are some of its highlights.
The La Sportiva Katana Lace's sole unit
Unlike most climbing shoes, the Katana Lace has a full-length midsole at 1.1 mm thick. This stiff element makes the shoe even more supportive on edges, particularly crooked ones.
Droves of purchasers love how much the La Sportiva Katana Lace performs on the trickiest of edges.
Based on several reviews, the Katana Lace sticks to a variety of surfaces without fail.
A feature for fissures
Its middle-of-the-road downturn allows wearers to get into medium-size cracks with minimal effort.
Enhanced mobility
The holes on both sides of the Katana Lace’s randing give climbers improved sideways mobility.
Well-ventilated design
sports a highly curved toe zone.
Comfy confines
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La Sportiva Katana Lace vs. Kataki
The Katana Lace is often pitted against climbing shoes from other brands. In this head-to-head, however, its competitor is also part of La Sportiva’s lineup—the Kataki. The things that set them apart are as follows:
Downturn. The featured product has a moderate downturn, while the La Sportiva Kataki, which is part of our aggressive collection, La Sportiva Katana Lace.
Environment. The Katana Lace is engineered more versatile in this regard, as the Kataki is used almost exclusively outdoors.
Asking price. About $20 is the price difference between the two competing La Sportiva kicks, with the Katana Lace being the more expensive.
In conclusion, the Katana Lace and the Kataki are two completely different beasts. That said, if you do not mind spending extra and you value versatility above all else, the former is an easy pick. Choose the latter, however, if the routes you frequent require pinpoint toeing precision.
