EVOLV Defy Climbing Shoes - Men's Black/Gray 9.5 Review
The EVOLV Defy Climbing Shoes are engineered from extensive research and development, significantly in collaboration with elite climbers like Ashima Shiraishi. These shoes promise to elevate your climbing performance without compromising on comfort. With a sleek black and gray design, they provide not only functionality but also style for the avid climber.
These climbing shoes feature an aggressive downturned shape that allows greater precision on those tricky foot placements. The anatomically molded heel ensures a snug fit while enhancing overall control during climbs. Thanks to the ultra-sensitive sole, you can truly feel the rock beneath your feet, improving your connection and confidence on varied terrains.
Related Products
Features
- Non-stop R&D with leading climbers
- Aggressive downturned shape for enhanced precision
- Anatomically molded heel for a secure fit
- Ultra-sensitive sole for superior rock connection
- Perforated vegan synthetic upper for breathability
- Closure: Hook & Loop straps
- Midsole: MX-P: 1.4mm Sensitive Full-Length
- Outsole: 4.2mm TRAX SAS rubber
- Asymmetric profile for better fit
- Vegan-friendly construction
- Weight: 8.5oz per shoe (size 9 Men's)
Pros
- Comfortable fit with adjustable straps
- Excellent sensitivity for better grip
- Durable construction using synthetic materials
- Lightweight design enhances mobility
- Easily machine washable for maintenance
Cons
- May require a break-in period for optimal comfort
- Aggressive heel might not suit beginners
- Limited color options available
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | EVOLV Defy | La Sportiva Theory | Scarpa Drago |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Synthetic | Leather/Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Closure Type | Hook & Loop | Laces | Hook & Loop |
| Midsole Thickness | 1.4mm | 1.0mm | 1.0mm |
| Weight (per shoe) | 8.5oz | 8.9oz | 8.6oz |
| Vegan Friendly | Yes | No | Yes |
Detailed Review
The EVOLV Defy Climbing Shoes stand out in several aspects, making them a solid choice for climbers seeking both comfort and performance. The fit is commendable, thanks to the adjustable closure system which accommodates various foot shapes and sizes. While the aggressive downturned platform might intimidate novice climbers, it exponentially enhances performance for those familiar with advanced climbing techniques.
In terms of construction, these shoes excel. The breathable synthetic upper contributes to overall comfort during extended use, allowing for moisture management and ventilation. The 4.2mm TRAX SAS outsole provides exceptional grip, ensuring that you won’t slip during critical moments.
When it comes to versatility, the EVOLV Defy performs well across different climbing scenarios—from indoor gyms to outdoor crags. However, their aggressive profile may be more suited for sport climbing or bouldering rather than multi-pitch climbs where comfort over long durations is paramount.
On the downside, some users report that despite their initial comfort, a breaking-in period is required to obtain the best fit and feel. Additionally, the limited color options might not cater to everyone’s aesthetic preference.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 8.5/10 | Great fit with a slight break-in needed. |
| Performance | 9.0/10 | Exceptional sensitivity and grip on rocks. |
| Durability | 8.0/10 | Constructed with high-quality synthetic materials. |
| Versatility | 8.5/10 | Good for sport climbing and bouldering. |
User Reviews
Good rubber and a good grip. Fits smaller than expected, so make sure to go a size up.
These seem to be well designed shoes, a great price, and have a good sole for indoor rock climbing which is what I was looking for. However, the shoe size is way tooooo small. I can't imagine proper shoe and harness sizing seems to be way beyond the technical ability of climbing companies. I walk around in a size 9.5 street shoe. I bought these in size 11 thinking I would be giving myself plenty of margin but it still wasn't enough. I had to return these and get a size 12. That is insanity! They are very comfortable to wear and seem durable. The toe doesn't seem really great for hooking onto a tiny crevice however. Still I would buy these again despite the flaws.
Wide feet! (wide, but length runs small)Typically I wear a 39.5 in climbing shoes. My current ones pinch my toes and I wanted something more comfortable for the gym. I bought a 40 in two other brands and this in a 41 (based on reviews and looking at the size charts and choosing the us equivalent, which is different for every shoe 🤷). Well these fit nearly perfectly, while the others were both too narrow and too long! Side by side with the 40, these at 41 were significantly shorter and significantly wider. So probably not great for "normal" feet. I believe mine are 8 men's, whereas I typically wear 7 women's, so you really need to size up like 2 sizes, or maybe 1.5 if you want them for outdoors.
I ordered the same size I wear in Butoras (8.5 when I wear 7.5-8 in street shoes) and it fit exactly the same. They are great for all day wear, inside or outside. I climb inside probably 3-4x a week and they have lasted for a few months without much wear at this point. The soles are pretty soft, so if you're looking for a more aggressive shoe, these ain't it.
My 15 years old nephew rock climbs with me and he wore a 14 shoe. I purchased this one in size 15. I know typically you go barefoot but I’m expecting his foot to grow more so socks until he grows. They are not narrow enough for his foot but he likes them and they work well. No complaints from him.
These fit perfectly but if they were slightly smaller I’d be replacing them. Climbing shoes are supposed to be tight, but not Chinese foot binding tight so keep that in mind. I wear a women’s 9 in regular shoes. I got a 10 in these and they fit perfect so size up! They feel a bit loose around my heel but I’m sure when I’m on the rock wall it won’t be super noticeable
Just got my Evolv shoes, upon opening you can see glue leaking out from all the areas where it's used to join the patchwork of leather and rubber together, and the sole is pulling away from the shoe in a few spots, which makes me worry they'll degrade quickly upon use.UPDATE: I've had the shoes for about a month and a week, I've used them about 10 times, and they're already suffering this much wear.
I wear size 8.5. In ordered a size 10 for this climbing shoe as they tend to run smaller. Still way too small! Toes are crushed. Returning.