Good News for Climbers: La Sportiva Skwama Vegan Review

In the world of climbing, gear plays a pivotal role in the success of every ascent. Climbing shoes, in particular, are an essential piece of equipment for any serious climber. La Sportiva, a renowned name in the climbing industry, has introduced a game-changer for climbers who also care about the environment. The La Sportiva Skwama Vegan, priced at $199, boasts all the remarkable features of the original Skwama model but with a significant twist—it’s completely free of animal-sourced materials.

The P3 Rand System: A Supportive Advantage

One of the standout features of the La Sportiva Skwama Vegan is its incorporation of the P3 rand system. This innovation not only enhances the shoe’s longevity but also provides essential support to its downturned shape. Climbers who are familiar with the original Skwama’s exceptional performance will appreciate the added value of this upgrade.

Split Sole Construction: Weight Redistribution

The split sole construction of the Skwama Vegan softens the midsole while effectively channeling weight into the big toe. This design is a game-changer for climbers seeking precision and control during their ascents. The split sole construction allows for increased sensitivity, making it an excellent choice for those looking to push their climbing boundaries.

Outstanding Toe Rubber Performance

The patterned swath of toe rubber on the La Sportiva Skwama Vegan is another noteworthy feature. Climbers will find that this shoe excels in toehooks and jams, providing confidence on challenging routes. The toe rubber’s performance on various terrains adds versatility to the Skwama Vegan, making it suitable for a wide range of climbing styles.

The S-Heel: A Perfect Balance

For climbers who appreciate sensitivity and comfort when side-heeling on sharp edges, the S-Heel on the Skwama Vegan is a true gem. It strikes the perfect balance between sensitivity and support, allowing climbers to confidently tackle demanding routes.

Going Beyond Leather: The SkinLike Insole

In a departure from the original Skwama, the Skwama Vegan incorporates a “SkinLike” insole. This insole offers the same level of comfort and foot-conforming properties as leather but with a key difference—it’s not made from animal-derived materials. Climbers who prioritize sustainability and ethical choices in their gear will appreciate this change.

Versatility in Performance

While the Skwama Vegan may be softer than the Solution line (both iterations), it doesn’t compromise on versatility. This shoe is equally at home on vertical basalt sport climbs, technical limestone cave boulders, and marathon gym training sessions. The adaptability of the Skwama Vegan makes it a valuable addition to any climber’s shoe collection.

Sizing for Comfort and Precision

Choosing the right size of climbing shoes can be a crucial decision. In the case of the Skwama Vegan, sizing up by half a size proved to be a wise choice for many climbers. This ensures immediate comfort from day one. Concerns about the shoe stretching out, as is typical with leather versions, are put to rest as the Skwama Vegan maintains its high precision even after heavy use.

In summary, the La Sportiva Skwama Vegan is a high-performance slipper-velcro hybrid that excels in a wide range of climbing scenarios. Its animal-friendly design makes it an appealing choice for environmentally-conscious climbers. Whether you’re tackling steep sport climbs, technical bouldering, or training at the gym, the Skwama Vegan has you covered.

Conclusion

Climbers now have a reason to celebrate with the La Sportiva Skwama Vegan. This innovative climbing shoe retains all the exceptional features of the original Skwama while embracing sustainability and animal-friendliness. It’s a testament to La Sportiva’s commitment to both performance and ethical choices in climbing gear.

FAQs

1. Is the La Sportiva Skwama Vegan suitable for beginners?

The Skwama Vegan’s versatility makes it suitable for climbers of various skill levels, including beginners. However, it’s essential to choose the right size for optimal comfort and performance.

2. How does the Skwama Vegan compare to the leather version in terms of performance?

While the Skwama Vegan may be slightly softer than the leather version, it offers comparable performance in most climbing scenarios. The key difference lies in its animal-friendly materials.

3. Can the Skwama Vegan handle outdoor and indoor climbing equally well?

Yes, the Skwama Vegan is designed to perform excellently both outdoors and indoors. Its adaptability makes it a go-to choice for a wide range of climbing environments.

4. What is the recommended care for the Skwama Vegan climbing shoes?

To maintain the longevity of your Skwama Vegan shoes, it’s advisable to clean them regularly and store them in a cool, dry place. Refer to La Sportiva’s care guidelines for specific recommendations.

5. Where can I purchase the La Sportiva Skwama Vegan climbing shoes?

You can find the Skwama Vegan at outdoor and climbing gear retailers, as well as online marketplaces. Be sure to verify the authenticity of the product when making your purchase.