Scarpa Chimera Vs Drago
Scarpa Chimera Vs Drago: A Comprehensive Comparison
Climbing enthusiasts are often presented with a choice when it comes to investing in a quality pair of shoes: the Scarpa Chimera and the Drago. Both are renowned for their comfort and performance, but there are a few key differences between the two that can help climbers make a more informed decision. We’ve compiled a comprehensive comparison of the Chimera and Drago, taking into account all aspects that might influence a climber’s decision.
Comparison Table
| Scarpa Chimera | Scarpa Drago | |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Precision fit | Slightly looser fit |
| Type of Climbing | All-rounder | Slab |
| Sole Stiffness | Slightly stiff | Moderate |
| Shape | Asymmetric, flat | Slightly asymmetric, slightly downturned |
| Closure System | Lace-up | Lace-up |
| Materials | Leather upper | Synthetic upper |
| Price | Slightly more expensive | Slightly cheaper |
| Toe Box Shape | Slightly pointed | Slightly rounded |
| Heel Cup | Deeper | Shallower |
| Weight | 9.5oz | 9.5oz |
| Level of Ventilation | Ample | Ample |
Fit
The Scarpa Chimera is designed to fit the shape of a climber’s foot with precision, providing a comfortable, snug fit that won’t slip or let go during intense climbs. The design of this shoe is also ideal for those who want to transition between climbing styles, as it’s designed to fit perfectly regardless of the type of climb. On the other hand, the Scarpa Drago is crafted to provide a slightly looser fit, allowing for more movement and flexibility.
The Drago’s design provides cushioning around the heel, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort and support. Both shoes have ample rubber coverage for edging, and their stiff midsoles provide enough stiffness for long days at the crag. However, the Chimera’s heel cup is slightly deeper and more secure than the Drago’s, providing a snugger fit than the Drago.
Type of Climbing
The Scarpa Chimera is designed to be an all-rounder, providing excellent performance on a variety of surfaces and climbing styles. The combination of a flat, slightly downturned shape and a stiff midsole make it perfect for edging and steep technical climbs. The Drago, on the other hand, is designed to excel at slab and slab-like routes. Its slightly asymmetric shape and moderately stiff midsole provide excellent grip and precision on slabs and other technical climbs.
Sole Stiffness
The Scarpa Chimera features a slightly stiffer sole than the Drago, making it well-suited for long days of edging and hard climbs. The sole of the Chimera is still flexible enough to provide great sensitivity, but stiff enough to provide stability and support when necessary. The Drago, on the other hand, features a moderate stiffness that is still stiff enough for edging but more flexible than the Chimera. This makes the Drago ideal for climbers who prioritize comfort and sensitivity.
Shape
The Chimera features an asymmetric shape that is slightly downturned with a flat profile. This makes it great for edging and technical climbing. The Drago, on the other hand, features a slightly asymmetric shape that is slightly more downturned than the Chimera. This makes the Drago well-suited for slab climbing and technical routes.
Closure System
The Chimera and Drago both feature a lace-up closure system, but they differ slightly in the way they are designed. The Chimera has slightly more lace coverage than the Drago, making it more secure and less likely to loosen during a climb. The Drago has a more open design, which allows for greater breathability and flexibility.
Materials
The Chimera and Drago are both constructed from the same high-quality materials. Both have rubber soles for maximum grip and comfort, and both have lightweight, breathable uppers for increased ventilation. The Chimera features a leather upper, while the Drago features a synthetic upper.
Price
The price of the Chimera and Drago vary depending on the retailer, but in general, the Chimera is slightly more expensive than the Drago. This is due to the higher quality materials used in the Chimera’s construction.Personal Preference
At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference when choosing between the Chimera and Drago. Both provide excellent performance on a variety of surfaces and styles, but the Chimera is designed more for technical climbing while the Drago is designed more for slab climbing. The fit and closure system of the Chimera may be more suitable for those who prioritize precision and security, while the Drago may be more suitable for those who prioritize comfort and breathability.
Toe Box Shape
The toe box shape of the Chimera and Drago differ slightly. The Chimera has a slightly pointed toe box shape, while the Drago has a slightly more rounded toe box shape. This can affect the fit and performance of each shoe depending on the type of climb.
Heel Cup
The Chimera has a slightly deeper heel cup than the Drago, which provides increased stability and support. The Drago’s heel cup is slightly shallower, making it more comfortable for those who have narrower heels or prefer a looser fit.
Weight
The Chimera and Drago are both lightweight, weighing in at around 9.5oz for a US women’s size 8. This makes them suitable for long days at the crag.
Level of Ventilation
The Chimera and Drago both have ample breathability due to the lightweight, breathable uppers used in their construction. The Drago’s open lacing system makes it slightly more breathable than the Chimera, making it better suited for hot days.
Conclusion
The Scarpa Chimera and Drago are both excellent shoes that provide a comfortable, secure fit and great performance on a variety of surfaces and climbing styles. Ultimately, the decision of which shoe to invest in comes down to personal preference and the type of climbing a climber plans on doing.
The Chimera is best suited for those who prioritize precision, edging, and technical climbing, while the Drago is better suited for those who prioritize comfort, breathability, and slab climbing. Both shoes are lightweight and provide ample breathability, making them suitable for long days at the crag.