La Sportiva Katana Lace vs. TC Pro Climbing Shoes
Rock climbing is an exciting and demanding sport that requires not only skill and technique but also the proper equipment. Climbing shoes are an essential piece of climbing equipment that can make or break a climber’s performance. The La Sportiva Katana Lace and the TC Pro are two of the most popular climbing shoes on the market. While both shoes are intended for technical climbing, they differ in ways that make them appropriate for different types of climbers and climbs.
In this article, I’ll compare the La Sportiva Katana Lace and the TC Pro climbing shoes, highlighting their features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you choose the best shoe for your climbing needs.
La Sportiva Katana Lace
Climbing Shoe Type: Aggressive
Last: Slip-lasted
Upper: Leather/microfiber
Lining: 1.1 mm full-length LaspoFlex with P3 system
Outsole: 4 mm Vibram XS Edge rubber
Footwear Closure: Lace-up
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1.6 oz.
La Sportiva Katana Lace is a popular climbing shoe among climbers of all levels, and for good reason. It’s a versatile shoe that’s suitable for a wide range of climbs, from technical slabs to overhanging boulders. The Katana Lace features a lace-up closure that provides a secure fit and allows for easy adjustability. The shoe’s upper is made of a combination of synthetic materials and leather, which provides both durability and comfort.
One of the most notable features of the La Sportiva Katana Lace is its precision and sensitivity. The shoe’s medium-stiff sole offers excellent support while still allowing for a good amount of sensitivity, which is essential for technical climbs. The shoe also features a downturned toe, which helps to maximize power and precision when edging on small holds.
While the La Sportiva Katana Lace has many strengths, it’s not without its downsides. One common complaint about the shoe is that it can be uncomfortable for some climbers, particularly those with wider feet. Additionally, the shoe’s downturned toe can be uncomfortable for some climbers, especially when used for extended periods.
Another potential downside of the La Sportiva Katana Lace is its price point. The shoe is on the higher end of the price spectrum for climbing shoes, which may not be accessible to all climbers. However, for those willing to invest in a high-quality climbing shoe, the La Sportiva Katana Lace is a reliable and versatile option.
What I like: Comfortable, versatile, stiff, and durable
What I don’t: Limited sensitivity, expensive
See the La Sportiva Katana Lace
La Sportiva TC Pro
Climbing Shoe Type: Neutral
Last: Slip-lasted
Upper: ECO leather/microfiber
Lining: Sentex/polyurethane foam/AirMesh
Outsole: 4 mm Vibram XS Edge rubber
Footwear Closure: Lace-up
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1.4 oz.
La Sportiva TC Pro is a climbing shoe that’s designed for climbers who want a high-performance shoe that’s also comfortable. It’s a popular choice among trad climbers and those who need a shoe that can handle long multi-pitch climbs. The TC Pro features a flat sole and a lace-up closure that provides a customizable fit.
One of the most significant strengths of the La Sportiva TC Pro is its comfort. The shoe’s flat sole provides a stable platform, and the midsole offers excellent support and cushioning, making it a comfortable shoe for long climbs. The TC Pro’s upper is made of high-quality leather, which provides both durability and comfort.
Another strength of the La Sportiva TC Pro is its versatility. The shoe is suitable for a wide range of climbs, from crack climbs to technical slabs. The TC Pro’s flat sole and neutral shape make it an ideal shoe for crack climbing, while its precision and sensitivity make it suitable for technical climbs.
However, the La Sportiva TC Pro also has some downsides. One of the most significant complaints about the shoe is its sizing. The TC Pro tends to run small, which can be frustrating for climbers who have to order a size larger than they typically wear. Additionally, the shoe’s flat sole can be a disadvantage on steep or overhanging climbs, where a downturned toe is more suitable. Finally, the La Sportiva TC Pro is also a high-priced shoe, which may be a barrier for some climbers.
What I like: Good all-around shoes, climbs well, and great edging
What I don’t: Limited sport/bouldering use and expensive
Which one is right for you?
Choosing between the La Sportiva Katana Lace and the TC Pro will depend on your specific needs and climbing style.
If you’re looking for a versatile shoe that can handle a variety of climbs and offers precision and sensitivity, the La Sportiva Katana Lace may be the right choice for you. It’s a great option for technical climbs and edging on small holds. However, if you have wider feet or are on a tight budget, this shoe may not be the best fit for you.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a shoe that’s comfortable for long multi-pitch climbs and excels at crack climbing, the La Sportiva TC Pro may be a better choice for you. The shoe’s flat sole and neutral shape make it suitable for jamming into cracks, and its cushioning provides added comfort for extended climbs. However, if you need a shoe for steep or overhanging climbs, the TC Pro’s flat sole may be a disadvantage.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which shoe is right for you is to try them on and climb in them. It’s also worth considering any specific features that are important to you, such as closure type, sizing, and price when making your decision.
