Scarpa Drago review

Scarpa Drago

The Scarpa Drago climbing shoes boast a refined balance of sensitivity and friction. The microfiber upper is both lightweight and comfortable, and the patented foot wrap system enhances rubber coverage for improved friction and protection. The shoe’s sensitivity allows for better grip, while the power connection band provides extra support. The Instinct VS heel design and single lock down strap, designed by Heinz Mariachero, make the Drago a top choice for boulderers, sport climbers, and competition climbers. These shoes are handcrafted in Italy to ensure quality and performance.

The Scarpa Drago climbing shoes stand out for their unique combination of performance and comfort. Unlike many aggressive climbing shoes that sacrifice comfort for power, the Drago features a comfortable interior with a padded tongue and ankle collar, making them ideal for long sessions at the crag. Additionally, the combination of suede and synthetic upper materials provides a balance of durability and breathability, ensuring that your feet stay comfortable during intense climbing sessions. The downturned toe and flexible midsole also make the Drago a versatile option, suitable for a wide range of climbing styles and types of routes. Whether you’re working on overhanging boulder problems or technical face climbs, the Scarpa Drago is a top-performing climbing shoe that will help you reach new heights. 

The Scarpa Drago Climbing Shoes Review

Features

Redefine Your Power and Comfort 

  • Beautiful Design
    • Aggressive DownTurn
  • High Asymmetry
  • Dynamic Support
  • PCB Active Rand
  • Single-Strap Closure
  • Quick Adjustability
  • Perfect Upper Microsuede
  • Smooth and Comfortable Fit
  • Structural Rubber Toe Box

Scarpa Drago Review

The Scarpa Drago climbing shoes are a true masterpiece of design and performance. As a seasoned climber, I’ve tried countless shoes in my pursuit of finding the perfect combination of sensitivity and power, and I’m thrilled to say that the Drago has exceeded all my expectations. The microfiber upper is ultra-lightweight and comfortable, and the patented foot wrap system provides exceptional rubber coverage over the entire forefoot, resulting in unmatched friction and protection. The sensitivity of the shoe enables me to grip holds with confidence, while the power connection band reinforces support when I need it the most. The Instinct VS heel design, coupled with a single lock down strap, makes this shoe a formidable weapon for boulderers, sport climbers, and competition climbers alike.

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What sets the Drago apart from other climbing shoes is its versatility. It may look like a specialized bouldering-shoe, but it’s much more than that. I’ve used it for overhanging routes, technical face climbs, and even multi-pitch adventures, and it’s held up to the task every time. The balance of sensitivity and power makes the Drago a top choice for climbers of all levels, from beginner to advance.

Colour

White

Sizes

3.5 to 16

Sole Material

Rubber

Designed by

Scarpa

PCB Active Rending

The dynamic support in the Scarpa Drago is provided by a material known as PCB active rendering. This material is lightweight and creates extreme power, providing the climber with the necessary support to handle even the most challenging routes. The PCB active rendering technology is what sets the Drago apart from other rock shoes, providing a level of support that is unmatched in the climbing industry.

Closure

The Drago is designed with an easy on/off design that includes a single strap closure. This closure provides quick adjustability and a secure fit, ensuring that the climber’s foot stays in place while they’re climbing. The upper is constructed with a soft micro suede material, which provides a smooth and comfortable fit. The combination of the easy on/off design and the soft micro suede upper make the Drago a great choice for climbers who want a responsive and comfortable shoe that won’t slow them down.

Outsole

The structural toe on the Drago is wrapped in extremely sticky rubber, providing the necessary support and friction for climbers to send steep and smooth features. The Vibram XS Grip rubber covers one third of the outsole and is strategically placed only where the climber needs it the most. This combination of sticky rubber and strategically placed Vibram XS Grip rubber provides the necessary grip to help climbers send even the most challenging routes. The Scarpa Drago is handmade in Italy and is a cutting-edge, extremely technical rock shoe that has been designed specifically for the most advanced climbers. The combination of the aggressive last, PCB active rendering technology, easy on/off design, and sticky outsole make the Drago a top choice for climbers who want to perform at their highest level.

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Scarpa Drago vs La Sportive Katana Lace

The Scarpa Drago is designed to be highly sensitive, comfortable and well suited for overhanging climbing, while the La Sportive Katana Lace is more versatile, stiff and durable.

In terms of sensitivity, the Scarpa Drago is renowned for its ability to provide excellent feedback from the rock surface. The shoe’s construction features a thin, sensitive sole that allows climbers to feel the subtlest of holds, making it ideal for steep overhangs and delicate footwork. The comfort of the Scarpa Drago is also noteworthy, as it features a snug, supportive fit that can be worn for extended periods without causing discomfort.

The La Sportive Katana Lace, on the other hand, is designed to be a versatile climbing shoe that can handle a wide range of climbing styles and terrains. The shoe’s stiff construction provides excellent edging performance, making it suitable for technical face climbing and steep overhangs. The durability of the La Sportive Katana Lace is also a standout feature, as it is made with high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of regular climbing.

In terms of cost, the La Sportive Katana Lace is generally more expensive than the Scarpa Drago. This is due in part to its versatility and durability, as well as its use of high-quality materials. However, for climbers who prioritize these features, the added expense may be worth it.

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Pros

  • Sensitive
  • Comfortable
  • Rubber & Leather for lasting activities
  • Perfect for overhanging
  • Affordable

FAQs about Scarpa Drago

How much will the Scarpa Drago shoes stretch over time?

The Scarpa Drago is designed with a split sole and soft XS Grip 2 rubber, meaning it will stretch over time. The initial sizing may be smaller, but after a few climbing sessions, the shoes may stretch up to half a size or more.

Are the Scarpa Dragos flexible and comfortable to wear?

The Scarpa Drago is a highly sensitive climbing shoe that is flexible and comfortable to wear, making it ideal for steep technical boulders and demanding overhanging routes. The soft construction provides excellent feedback from the rock surface, allowing for precise movements.

How long does it take to break in the Drago shoes?

Unlike other climbing shoes, the Scarpa Drago requires very little to no breaking in period. The shoes will mold to the shape of your feet after just 20 minutes of use, thanks to the combination of a microfiber upper and a large amount of rubber, providing a sock-like fit.

Are the Scarpa Drago shoes suitable for narrow feet?

If you have narrow feet, the Scarpa Drago LV may be the perfect climbing shoe for you. This shoe is designed to fit snugly and comfortably, providing excellent precision and control on the rock. Climbing legend and shoe designer Heinz Mariacher has even referred to the Scarpa Drago LV as “the future of climbing shoes.

Conclusion

The Scarpa Drago is a climbing shoe that truly embodies the future of climbing footwear. Handcrafted in Italy with the expertise of designer Heinz Mariacher, the Drago represents the pinnacle of quality and performance. If you’re looking for a climbing shoe that will help you reach new heights and achieve your climbing goals, look no further than the Scarpa Drago.

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