La Sportiva Katana Lace
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.
Sizing
If you require some assistance with sizing this shoe to your particular needs click here: Rock Climbing Shoe Sizing Guide
Video
The video below takes a look at the Katana Lace model in more detail, and in action
Specification
- Colour: Yellow/Black
- Lining: Pacific lining throughout
- Midsole: Laspoflex 1.1 mm combined to the P3 system
- Outsole: Vibram XS Edge 4mm
- Upper: Tubular construction Suede calfskin and microfibre
- Gender: Unisex
- Last: PD55, slip lasted
- Closure: Lace
- Weight: 500g (EU 39)
Related Products and Collections
- More La Sportiva Climbing Shoes are available in our La Sportiva Climbing Shoes Collection
- See more climbing shoes in our Climbing Shoes Collection
- See more products in our La Sportiva Collection
