Sport Products
Welcome to our comprehensive review of the La Sportiva Solution White/Yellow Shoes! If you're an avid climber looking for top-notch performance and unparalleled grip, these shoes are definitely worth considering. In this article, well delve into every aspect of the Solutions from their design and comfort to durability and overall performance - so you can decide if they're right for you. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber aiming to tackle challenging routes, let's explore what makes these shoes stand out in the competitive world of climbing footwear!
The La Sportiva Solution White/Yellow Shoes are renowned for their aggressive design and snug fit. The upper is made from highly abrasion-resistant microfiber that conforms to your foot shape with minimal stretch, providing excellent precision on small holds. This shoe features a slightly downturned profile with an asymmetrical last, making it ideal for steep climbing terrain like overhangs and roofs. Fit: These shoes tend to run smaller than many other brands, so we highly recommend going up half or even a full size from your usual street shoe size. Theyre designed to be tight-fitting, but not painfully so! The Solution's fit is known for being narrower in the heel and toe box, which can work well for those with slimmer feet but might feel constricting if you have wider feet. Closure System: The shoes utilize a hook-and-loop closure system (Velcro) that allows for easy adjustments on the go. The laces are hidden under the Velcro strap to prevent snagging or tearing, and they can be tightened down securely. This design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
While these aren't the most comfortable climbing shoes out there, they strike a good balance between performance and comfort for their category (aggressive/down-turned). The La Sportiva Solution White/Yellow Shoes feature:
The La Sportiva Solution White/Yellow Shoes are built to last. The microfiber upper material is incredibly durable and resists tearing or stretching, even after extensive use. The rubber edging around the toe box is also highly resistant to wear and tear. However, like all climbing shoes, they will eventually show signs of wear and need replacing, especially if you climb frequently on abrasive rock types (like granite).
Rubber Longevity: The FriXion Black rubber offers excellent grip but it's not as durable as some other La Sportiva compounds. You can expect the soles to wear out faster than with shoes featuring a harder rubber compound like Vibram XS Grip2, especially if you climb on sharp or abrasive rock.
Tips for Extending Shoe Life:
This is where the La Sportiva Solution White/Yellow Shoes truly shine! Their aggressive downturn and sticky FriXion Black rubber provide exceptional grip on steep terrain. They excel at:
The La Sportiva Solution White/Yellow Shoes consistently receive high ratings and positive reviews from climbers of all levels. Here's a summary of what users are saying: Pros:
The La Sportiva Solution White/Yellow Shoes typically retail for around $170-$200 USD depending on the retailer and any ongoing sales. While they're not the cheapest option out there, we believe they offer excellent value for their performance. Considering their durability and exceptional grip, these shoes are a worthwhile investment for serious climbers who frequently tackle steep terrain. Alternatives:
The La Sportiva Solution White/Yellow Shoes are undoubtedly one of the best aggressive climbing shoes available today. Their exceptional grip, precise fit, and durable construction make them an excellent choice for climbers who frequently tackle challenging overhangs, roofs, and crimpy terrain. While they require a significant break-in period and may not be suitable for all types of climbing, their performance on steep routes is unmatched.
The La Sportiva Solution is known for its aggressive downturned shape and sticky FriXion RS rubber, offering exceptional precision and power in overhanging climbs. It features a unique Tension Guidance System to distribute foot tension evenly across the forefoot, enhancing sensitivity and control. The shoes are designed for advanced climbers seeking top-tier performance on demanding routes.
La Sportivas Solutions tend to run smaller than average climbing shoes. We recommend sizing up a half size or even a full size if you're between sizes, especially if you prefer a less tight fit for longer sessions. They have a more aggressive last shape that hugs the foot closely, particularly in the toe box.
While highly capable shoes, Solutions are not recommended for beginners. Their downturned shape and stiffness make them less comfortable and versatile than softer options. Beginners should consider models with a flatter profile and more forgiving fit to develop their footwork before progressing to these performance-oriented shoes.
Sizing is crucial for climbing shoe comfort and performance. We recommend trying them on in person at a local climbing shop if possible. If thats not an option, measure your foot length accurately (in millimeters) and consult our sizing chart. Consider how you plan to use the shoes - tight fitting shoes are better for technical routes while looser ones offer more comfort for longer climbs.
Break-in time varies depending on your foot shape and climbing style. To help soften them, wear them around the house or at the gym for short periods each day, gradually increasing the duration. Stretching techniques like using a shoe stretcher can also aid in breaking them in quicker.
Clean your shoes with a soft brush and mild soap after use to remove dirt and chalk buildup. Avoid machine washing or tumble drying as this can damage the rubber and adhesives. Allow them to air dry naturally away from direct heat. Regularly treat the leather uppers with a water-resistant conditioner to prevent cracking and keep them supple.
FriXion RS is a high-performance rubber compound developed by Vibram. It provides exceptional grip on small holds and edges, even when wet or covered in chalk dust. While it offers excellent friction, it wears down faster than softer rubbers like FriXion XF.
The Solutions offer good durability for high-performance climbing shoes. However, the aggressive downturn and sticky rubber make them more susceptible to wear compared to flatter models. Frequent use on rough rock or abrasive surfaces will accelerate this process.
Due to their stiff midsole and aggressive shape, Solutions are not designed for all-day comfort. They excel in demanding routes where precision and power are paramount but can become uncomfortable during longer sessions or if you prefer a more relaxed fit. If all-day comfort is your priority, consider models with softer rubber and a flatter profile.
These shoes are ideal for steep overhangs, roof climbs, and technical boulder problems where toe hooks and precision footwork are essential. They are not the best choice for slabs or vertical routes that require a more versatile shoe with a flatter profile.
While primarily available in white/yellow (as indicated by your product name), La Sportivas Solutions have been released in other colorways over time, such as black/orange and grey/blue. Check our website or contact us for current availability.
The TGS system is an internal structure that supports and guides foot tension, preventing it from pooling in one area of the shoe. This helps distribute pressure evenly across the forefoot, improving sensitivity and control on small holds. It also enhances edging power by providing a rigid platform for your feet to push off from.
Yes! Solutions are resolable with a variety of rubber compounds available depending on your climbing style and preference. We recommend having them professionally resolved at a reputable shoe repair shop or cobbler specializing in climbing gear. Resoling will extend the lifespan of your shoes significantly.
You can purchase La Sportiva Solutions directly from our website, as well as through other authorized retailers who sell climbing equipment and gear. We recommend checking reviews on various websites to find the best price and service before making a purchase.
Each pair of La Sportiva Solutions comes packaged in a branded shoe bag, perfect for protecting your shoes during travel or storage.
Some users have reported that the heel strap can be prone to stretching over time, particularly if it's frequently adjusted. Its advisable to avoid over-tightening this strap and check for wear regularly. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, Solutions are not the most comfortable shoes for long sessions due to their aggressive downturn and stiffness.