LA SPORTIVA KATAKI Climbing Shoes

If the La Sportiva Otaki and La Sportiva Katana Lace had a child, it would be the Kataki. (Hence, the name.)

Basically, it's a spec'ed up Katana, with laces and a slightly narrower fit. In general, it's a shoe that excels at edging and crack climbing.

The Kataki is the ideal performance all-rounder. It has enough downturn to be effective on steep terrain, yet its low-profile toe makes it a very good shoe for crack climbing. Also, thanks to the Vibram XS Edge rubber, it's an excellent edging shoe. This makes it ideal for technical crack climbing on granite, for example. It excels on rock (although just as efficient indoors).

In terms of fit, the Kataki is slightly narrower than the Katana. And, predominantly because the Kataki sports La Sportiva's newest heel (the patented S-Heel) the Kataki is a more aggressive shoe.

In additon, the Kataki has the La Sportiva P3 (Permanent Power Platform), which helps the shoe maintain its downturned profile over time.

With rubber that is Vibram XS Edge on the sole, this is a good edging shoe that is sturdy and going to give you good support.

Ideal use: Technical single-pitch, bouldering

• Innovative S-Heel™ construction system: allows for perfect stability in torsion, accentuating levels of performance and adaptability in heel hooks.
• Differentiated lacing, between front and rear for perfect adjustment of the volumes.
• ¾ sole for easy resoling.

• Upper: Suede leather combined with microfibre, slip lasted
• Lining: Front and back Pacific
• Fit: Medium
• Midsole: 1.1mm LaSpoFlex only at the front + P3 System
• Sole: 4mm Vibram® XS Edge
• Patent: S-Heel™, P3 System (Permanent Power Platform)
• Weight: 510g (pair)

Read Bogong staff member Will's review of the La Sportiva Kataki here.