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The La Sportiva Katana Lace is a versatile, intermediate performance lace climbing shoe that balances sensitivity, precision and structure, making it ideal for any type of climbing. Offering the same multifunctional performance as previous Katana models, the addition of a few new technical solutions further enhance what is already a firm favourite.
What makes the Katana a true all-rounder is a moderately technical shape. Whilst the shape may still be off-putting for new climbers, there is a good chance that intermediate climbers who are used to rock boots, will be able to wear the Katanas for extended lengths of time. The slight downturn, reasonable stiffness and great edging capability mean the Katana are great for everything except the steepest of terrain. An improved heel construction now offers improved accuracy while heel hooking - a feature that may have been the original Katanas slight downfall.
In regard to fit, the combination of leather and synthetic materials make for a comfortable shoe and with the addition of a lacing system rather than velcro closure, a precise fit can easily be achieved. It should be pointed out that the Katana is fairly narrow around the ball of the foot and tends to suit climbers with narrower feet better than those with wide feet. As with most La Sportiva climbing shoes sizing needs to be researched, check out our sizing guide at the end of this product description.
For those interested in some technical details, an innovative construction method has been applied to the Katana Lace. By inserting the lining between the leather upper and the rand amalgamates the structural advantages of a lined shoe, with the breathability and precision fit of an unlined shoe. The tongue is also highly breathable - working in conjunction with the lining to manage moisture within the shoe itself. As the name suggests, the Vibram XS Edge sole is best on edges, as it reduces deformation when standing on small holds, plus it has the bonus of being quite durable.
The Katana Lace is well established in the La Sportiva Climbing Shoe range and is a recommended choice for intermediate climbers, looking for a slightly more technical shoe suitable for having a go at a bit of everything and not letting their shoe confine them to one discipline.
If you require some assistance with sizing this shoe to your particular needs click here: Rock Climbing Shoe Sizing Guide
The video below takes a look at the Katana Lace model in more detail, and in action
Would you like to try on some climbing shoes, running shoes or mountain boots for size before you make your purchase? If so, then why not book an appointment with us today! We can offer you a bespoke one-on-one shopping experience with one of our experienced staff members.
Would you like to try on some climbing shoes, running shoes or mountain boots for size before you make your purchase? If so, then why not book an appointment with us today! We can offer you a bespoke one-on-one shopping experience with one of our experienced staff members.
As ever fit to your foot shape is the key but an appointment at Rock & Run gives you plenty of time with a knowledgeable staff member to try on lots of options and Rock & Run at Sandside have far more options available than most. For me it was my fourth pair of Katana laces but great to try on and check out the modified heel shape of the new incarnation. It is a touch snugger which suits my narrow heels well otherwise the shoe feels much the same as before. This newer version at size 42 (compared to my previous ones in size 42) maybe comes up a little bigger but not by half a Euro size so for me I wouldn’t change size just enjoy a little less initial pinching. Being stiff edging shoes they take a bit of time to soften and bed in before reaching their maximum sensitivity, this is just starting to happen.
Always great to shop with, good products and fast service.
Contrary to all advice typically given to beginning climbers, I found these more comfortable out the box than the Sportiva Finale or Scarpa Helix. It all depends on the shape of your foot. They also perform really well.
Our son has reported that they are well made and do exactly what he had hoped, improving his climbing technique.
Our son has reported that they are well made and do exactly what he had hoped, improving his climbing technique.
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