Hey climbers! Let's dive deep into one of the most talked-about climbing shoes on the market: the La Sportiva Solution Comp. If you're serious about bouldering or sport climbing, you've probably heard whispers about these shoes. But are they really worth the hype? In this comprehensive review, we'll break down everything you need to know, from their design and performance to their fit and durability. So, grab your chalk bag, and let's get started!

Unveiling the La Sportiva Solution Comp

When it comes to climbing shoes, the La Sportiva Solution Comp stands out as a high-performance option tailored for demanding routes and boulder problems. These shoes are designed to provide climbers with the precision and sensitivity needed to tackle challenging holds and sequences. The Solution Comp builds upon the legacy of the original Solution, incorporating several updates aimed at enhancing performance and comfort. One of the key features is the softer sole, which allows for greater flexibility and sensitivity on the rock. This is particularly beneficial for climbers who rely on feeling the nuances of the holds to maintain their grip. The shoe's design also includes a more accommodating heel cup, which improves the fit and reduces dead space, resulting in better heel hooking performance. Additionally, the Solution Comp features a redesigned lacing system that provides a more secure and customizable fit. This ensures that the shoe remains snug and responsive, even during dynamic movements. The shoe's upper is made from a combination of leather and microfiber, which provides a balance of durability and comfort. The leather conforms to the foot over time, while the microfiber helps to wick away moisture, keeping the foot dry and comfortable. Overall, the La Sportiva Solution Comp is a meticulously crafted climbing shoe that combines innovative design with high-quality materials to deliver exceptional performance. Whether you're a seasoned climber looking to push your limits or an intermediate climber seeking an edge, the Solution Comp is a worthy contender.

Key Features and Technologies

The La Sportiva Solution Comp isn't just another climbing shoe; it's a showcase of cutting-edge technology and design. Several key features set it apart from the competition, making it a favorite among elite climbers. Let's break down some of the most important aspects:

• P3 System (Permanent Power Platform): This is the heart of the Solution Comp. The P3 system maintains the downturned shape of the shoe, even after extended use. This ensures that the shoe retains its aggressive profile, providing consistent power and precision on overhanging routes and steep boulder problems. Without the P3 system, the shoe would eventually flatten out, losing its ability to effectively transfer power to small holds.
• Vibram XS Grip 2 Sole: The sole is made from Vibram's renowned XS Grip 2 rubber, known for its exceptional stickiness and sensitivity. This compound provides excellent grip on a variety of rock types, allowing climbers to trust their foot placements with confidence. The softer nature of the XS Grip 2 rubber also enhances the shoe's ability to conform to the shape of the holds, maximizing contact and friction.
• Lock Harness System: This technology ensures a snug and secure fit around the heel, preventing slippage and maximizing power transfer during heel hooks. The Lock Harness System works in conjunction with the shoe's lacing system to create a customized and supportive fit that enhances performance on challenging heel hooking sequences.
• Downturned Shape: The aggressive downturned shape of the Solution Comp is specifically designed for steep climbing. This shape allows climbers to pull with their toes, generating power and maintaining contact with the wall on overhanging terrain. The downturned shape also enhances the shoe's ability to toe hook, providing additional security and control.
• Asymmetrical Lacing System: The asymmetrical lacing system allows for a customized fit that conforms to the unique shape of each foot. This design minimizes dead space and ensures that the shoe remains snug and responsive, even during dynamic movements. The lacing system also allows climbers to fine-tune the fit to their personal preferences, enhancing comfort and performance.

Performance on Different Rock Types

The La Sportiva Solution Comp is designed to excel on a variety of rock types, making it a versatile choice for climbers who frequent different climbing areas. Whether you're climbing on granite, limestone, or sandstone, the Solution Comp delivers exceptional performance. On granite, the shoe's aggressive downturn and sticky Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber provide the precision and grip needed to tackle small edges and smears. The shoe's ability to maintain its shape, thanks to the P3 system, ensures that it continues to perform well even after extended use. The Solution Comp also performs admirably on limestone, where its sensitivity and flexibility allow climbers to feel the nuances of the holds and maintain contact with the rock. The shoe's ability to conform to the shape of the holds maximizes friction and provides a secure and confident feel. On sandstone, the Solution Comp's soft sole and sticky rubber provide excellent grip on the often-smooth and rounded holds. The shoe's sensitivity allows climbers to feel the texture of the rock and make precise adjustments to their foot placements. However, it's worth noting that the Solution Comp's soft sole may wear down more quickly on abrasive rock types, such as granite. Climbers who primarily climb on abrasive rock may want to consider a shoe with a stiffer sole for improved durability.

Fit and Comfort

Okay, let's talk about fit – because let's face it, even the most high-performance shoe is useless if it feels like a medieval torture device. The La Sportiva Solution Comp is known for its snug and precise fit, designed to maximize performance. However, this also means that finding the right size is crucial. Most climbers find that they need to size down from their street shoe size to achieve the desired level of performance. The exact amount of downsizing will depend on individual preferences and foot shape, but generally, sizing down by one to one and a half sizes is a good starting point. When trying on the Solution Comp, it's important to ensure that the shoe fits snugly around the foot, with no dead space in the heel or toe box. The shoe should feel secure and responsive, allowing for precise movements and maximum power transfer. However, it's also important to avoid sizing down too much, as this can lead to discomfort and even injury. The Solution Comp's upper is made from a combination of leather and microfiber, which provides a balance of durability and comfort. The leather conforms to the foot over time, while the microfiber helps to wick away moisture, keeping the foot dry and comfortable. The shoe's asymmetrical lacing system allows for a customized fit that conforms to the unique shape of each foot. This design minimizes dead space and ensures that the shoe remains snug and responsive, even during dynamic movements. Overall, the La Sportiva Solution Comp is designed to provide a performance-oriented fit that maximizes sensitivity and control. While it may not be the most comfortable shoe out of the box, it will break in over time and conform to the shape of your foot, providing a custom fit that enhances your climbing performance.

Pros and Cons

Like any piece of gear, the La Sportiva Solution Comp has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's break it down:

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: The Solution Comp excels on steep, overhanging routes and boulder problems. Its downturned shape, sticky rubber, and supportive construction provide the precision and power needed to tackle challenging climbs.
• Sensitivity: The shoe's soft sole and sensitive construction allow climbers to feel the nuances of the holds, providing a high level of feedback and control.
• Heel Hooking: The Lock Harness System and snug heel cup make the Solution Comp an excellent choice for heel hooking, providing a secure and confident feel.
• Customizable Fit: The asymmetrical lacing system allows for a customized fit that conforms to the unique shape of each foot, minimizing dead space and maximizing performance.

Cons:

• Aggressive Fit: The Solution Comp's aggressive downturn and snug fit may not be comfortable for all climbers, particularly those with wider feet or those who prefer a more relaxed fit.
• Durability: The shoe's soft sole may wear down more quickly on abrasive rock types, such as granite. Climbers who primarily climb on abrasive rock may want to consider a shoe with a stiffer sole for improved durability.
• Price: The La Sportiva Solution Comp is a premium climbing shoe, and its price reflects its high-end construction and performance features. Climbers on a budget may want to consider more affordable options.
• Break-in Period: The Solution Comp may require a break-in period before it reaches its full potential. Climbers may experience some discomfort during the initial break-in period, but the shoe will eventually conform to the shape of the foot, providing a more comfortable and personalized fit.

Alternatives to Consider

If the La Sportiva Solution Comp doesn't quite tick all your boxes, don't worry! There are plenty of other excellent climbing shoes out there. Here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Five Ten Hiangle: A versatile shoe known for its comfort and performance on a variety of rock types.
• Scarpa Instinct VS: Another popular choice for steep climbing, offering a similar level of performance to the Solution Comp.
• Evolv Shaman: Designed for aggressive bouldering and sport climbing, with a focus on toe hooking and precision.
• La Sportiva Skwama: A slightly softer and more sensitive option compared to the Solution Comp, ideal for climbers who prioritize feel and flexibility.

Final Verdict: Is the Solution Comp Right for You?

So, after all that, is the La Sportiva Solution Comp the right shoe for you? Well, it depends. If you're a serious boulderer or sport climber looking for a high-performance shoe that excels on steep terrain, then the Solution Comp is definitely worth considering. Its aggressive downturn, sticky rubber, and supportive construction will give you the edge you need to tackle challenging climbs. However, if you're new to climbing or prefer a more comfortable and versatile shoe, then you might want to explore other options. The Solution Comp's aggressive fit and high price tag may not be suitable for all climbers. Ultimately, the best way to determine if the Solution Comp is right for you is to try it on and see how it feels on your feet. Visit your local climbing shop and spend some time trying on different sizes and models. Talk to the staff and get their recommendations based on your climbing style and experience level. With a little research and experimentation, you'll be able to find the perfect climbing shoe to help you reach your goals.

Happy climbing, folks!