EVOLV Elektra Climbing Shoes - Women's Merlot/Gray Review
The EVOLV Elektra Climbing Shoes in Merlot/Gray are designed specifically for women who seek both comfort and performance while scaling their favorite rock faces. These climbing shoes fit narrower and lower volume feet, ensuring a snug and secure fit that enhances your climbing experience.
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Features
Pros
- Excellent fit for lower volume and narrower feet
- Lightweight construction enhances performance
- Durable rubber outsole for great traction
- Machine washable for easy care
- Vegan friendly materials used
Cons
- Not suitable for wider feet
- Some may find the strap adjustment less convenient than laces
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | EVOLV Elektra | La Sportiva Theory | Scarpa Drago |
|---|---|---|---|
| Closure Type | Hook & Loop | Laces | Hook & Loop |
| Outsole Thickness | 4.2mm | 4mm | 3.5mm |
| Weight (Size 7) | 6.8oz | 7.1oz | 7.0oz |
| Asymmetry | Low Volume | Moderate | High |
Detailed Review
The EVOLV Elektra Climbing Shoes are notable for their thoughtful design aimed at providing excellent support without compromising comfort. The hook-and-loop closure system offers convenience, making it easy to get in and out of the shoes quickly, especially during multi-pitch climbs or gym sessions.
In terms of performance, the MX-P midsole combined with the 4.2mm TRAX SAS outsole provides exceptional sensitivity on small footholds, allowing you to trust your foot placements without hesitation. The asymmetric profile supports precise movements, making these shoes ideal for technical climbing routes.
The durable synthetic upper is also worth mentioning; it molds well to your foot's shape over time and stands up to the rigorous demands of climbing. Additionally, being vegan-friendly makes them an ethical choice for environmentally conscious climbers.
While they excel in many areas, it’s important to note that they may not be the best fit for those with wider feet due to their narrow design. Furthermore, the convenience of the strap system might not appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer the adjustability of traditional laces.
Overall, the EVOLV Elektra Climbing Shoes offer an excellent blend of performance, comfort, and durability, making them a solid choice for female climbers looking to enhance their skills.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Exceptional comfort for lower volume feet |
| Performance | 8.5/10 | Outstanding grip and responsiveness |
| Durability | 9/10 | High-quality materials withstand wear and tear |
| Value for Money | 8/10 | Great performance at a reasonable price point |
User Reviews
Okay so i’ve seen TONS of reviews saying these shoes were wayyy smaller than their street shoe size and to size up two sizes when buying these. I know it’s uncomfortable but climbing shoes are meant to fit really really small. If your toes aren’t crunched up they’re too big lol. I was a little worried that buying these in my exact shoe size would a bit extreme so I ordered a half size up. I am a 7.5 so I ordered an 8 and they are perfect!!!
I bought these a size and half larger than my normal size and they fit perfect. Amazing shoe, I climb around 4 days a week and they are holding up great!
Sized up just a half size.
bought up a size and they were still so tight they didn't go on my foot. Loved the material wished they fit so I could leave an actual review!
I wear a size 8-9 in regular shoes and have rented a size 9 climbing shoe in the past, but even a size 10 for this product was too small.
I bought these because I really liked the color of them, and the fact that they are velcro instead of laces. They are EXTREMELY small. I usually wear a size 9.5 but ordered an 11 and they are still too small. They don't have any bigger sizes, so I have to look for a different pair.They do look like good quality and durable though!
I wear a size 8-8.5 in regular running shoes. I purchased an 8.5 in this shoe at our gym and it fit perfectly--snug, but not uncomfortable. After a couple months I actually sized down to an 8, which makes it slightly uncomfortable, but a better snug for a better climb. I tried to do a 7.5 but it was way painful. The shape of my foot is pretty square, which I think works well for this shoe.
Before I went shopping for shoes, I met with someone at my climbing gym to go through sizing, how things should fit, etc. The person emphasized that the shoes should fit like a glove, not necessarily in terms of comfort, but it should be fairly tight without any room at the toes or heels. I took that into account, as well as the sizing on my old shoes, and the reviews on amazon. In "street shoes" I am a size 6. I did end up ordering a size 6.5 and so far, so good! I noticed that the fit helped me with some bouldering routes I had previous had difficulty with and that the tighter fit really made a difference. They're great for climbing, not comfortable for walking with. It's a great shoe for a more casual climber.