Evolv Phantom Vs La Sportiva Solution
Comparing the La Sportiva Solution and Evolv Phantom Climbing Shoes
When it comes to climbing shoes, two of the most popular models among experts are the La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom. Both are designed with advanced technologies to provide climbers with a wide range of features. In this article, we’ll compare the two shoes in terms of fit, type of climbing, sole stiffness, shape, closure system, materials, price, personal preference, toe box shape, heel cup, weight, and level of ventilation.
| Feature | La Sportiva Solution | Evolv Phantom |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Low-volume fit | Low-volume fit |
| Type of Climbing | Bouldering, sport, gym climbing | Bouldering, sport, gym climbing |
| Sole Stiffness | Medium stiff | Medium stiff |
| Shape | Asymmetrical shape | Asymmetrical shape |
| Closure System | Hook and loop | Hook and loop |
| Materials | Synthetic upper, Vibram XS Grip2 rubber | Synthetic upper, VTR rand and TRAX XT-5 high friction rubber |
| Price | $$ | $$$ |
Fit
The La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom both provide a low-volume fit, meaning they’re designed to fit the shape of your foot more precisely. This ensures that the shoe doesn’t move around when you’re climbing and provides the perfect amount of support for your foot.
The La Sportiva Solution features a special heel tension system which helps it fit snugly and securely. It also has an adjustable arch band that can be adjusted to your own preference and helps the shoe mold to your foot better.
The Evolv Phantom has a low-volume fit that hugs your foot nicely, providing a secure and comfortable fit. It also has a power strap that wraps around the upper of the shoe for additional support.
Type of Climbing
The La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom are both versatile shoes that are suitable for a range of climbing styles, including bouldering, sport, and gym climbing.
The La Sportiva Solution is designed to be a more aggressive shoe, which is ideal for steep, technical climbing. It’s also great for edging, smearing, and toe-hooking.
The Evolv Phantom is designed to be a more all-around option. It’s suitable for a broad range of climbing styles and is particularly good for bouldering and sport climbing.
Sole Stiffness
The La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom both have a medium sole stiffness, which provides the perfect balance of support and flexibility for climbing.
The La Sportiva Solution has a P3 midsole, which gives it a medium stiffness that’s perfect for steep or technical climbing. The sole is also quite comfortable, making it suitable for long multi-pitch routes or gym climbing.
The Evolv Phantom also has a medium stiffness. The sole is also quite comfortable, making it suitable for long multi-pitch routes or gym climbing. It also has a unique knuckle box that helps you keep your feet secure when you’re climbing.
Shape
The La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom both have an asymmetrical shape, which helps them fit the shape of your foot more precisely. This ensures that the shoe doesn’t move around when you’re climbing and provides the perfect amount of support for your foot.
The La Sportiva Solution features a low-profile toe box, which helps you stay more balanced on the wall. The shoe also has a downturned shape that’s designed to provide a snug fit and better performance.
The Evolv Phantom has an asymmetrical toe box that’s designed to provide maximum toe power when edging. The shoe also has a slightly downturned shape that helps you stay secure on the wall.
Closure System
The La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom both have a hook and loop closure system. The hook and loop closure system is easy to use, and it ensures that the shoe fits securely and won’t move around when you’re climbing.
The La Sportiva Solution has an adjustable arch band that can be adjusted to your own preference and helps the shoe mold to your foot better. The shoe also has a heel tension system which helps it fit snugly and securely.
The Evolv Phantom has a power strap that wraps around the upper of the shoe for additional support. The shoe also has a heel lock system which helps it fit more securely.
Materials
The La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom both have synthetic uppers, but their soles are made from different materials.
The La Sportiva Solution has a Vibram XS Grip2 rubber sole, which is designed to provide maximum friction and grip on the wall. The sole is also quite durable, making it ideal for long multi-pitch routes or gym climbing.
The Evolv Phantom has a VTR rand and TRAX XT-5 high friction rubber sole, which provides excellent grip and durability. This material is ideal for technical climbing and offers great grip on slippery surfaces.
Price
The La Sportiva Solution is priced at $$, while the Evolv Phantom is priced at $$$. The difference in price is due to the higher quality materials used in the Evolv Phantom.Personal Preference
When it comes to choosing the right climbing shoe, your personal preference should be the deciding factor. Both the La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom are great shoes, and the best one for you will depend on what type of climbing you’re doing and your own preferences.
The La Sportiva Solution is designed for steep, technical climbing and offers excellent grip and durability. It’s also quite comfortable, making it suitable for long multi-pitch routes or gym climbing.
The Evolv Phantom is designed to be a more all-around option and is suitable for a broad range of climbing styles. It has a unique knuckle box that helps you keep your feet secure when you’re climbing, and it also has a power strap that wraps around the upper of the shoe for additional support.
Toe Box Shape
The La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom both have a low-profile toe box, which helps you stay more balanced on the wall. The La Sportiva Solution has a slightly downturned toe box, while the Evolv Phantom has an asymmetrical toe box that’s designed to provide maximum toe power when edging.
Heel Cup
The La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom both have heel cups that help keep your feet secure when you’re climbing. The La Sportiva Solution has a special heel tension system, while the Evolv Phantom has a heel lock system which helps it fit more securely.
Weight
The La Sportiva Solution is slightly heavier than the Evolv Phantom, weighing in at 8.2oz (231g) compared to 7.3oz (208g). This difference in weight is due to the different materials used in the soles.
Level of Ventilation
The La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom both have good levels of ventilation. The La Sportiva Solution has an adjustable arch band that helps keep your feet cool, while the Evolv Phantom has an open mesh upper that helps keep your feet ventilated and comfortable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the La Sportiva Solution and the Evolv Phantom are great climbing shoes that provide a wide range of features. They both have low-volume fits, are suitable for a range of climbing styles, have medium sole stiffness, asymmetrical shapes, hook and loop closures, and good levels of ventilation.
The La Sportiva Solution is slightly heavier than the Evolv Phantom and is more expensive, but it offers excellent grip and durability. The Evolv Phantom is less expensive, has a unique knuckle box, and is great for bouldering and sport climbing.
Ultimately, the best climbing shoe for you will depend on what type of climbing you’re doing and your own personal preference.