EVOLV Rave Climbing Shoes - Men's Golden Yam 9.5 Review
The EVOLV Rave Climbing Shoes in Golden Yam 9.5 are designed with a focus on precision and comfort, aimed at enhancing your climbing experience. With an innovative last design, these shoes adapt beautifully to your foot, offering a snug fit that redefines what you can expect from climbing footwear. Gone are the days of cumbersome, baggy heels; instead, you are treated to a high-tension heel rand that wraps around your foot, ensuring the best fit available in slipper-style shoes.
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Features
- UNLINED LEATHER: Provides maximum breathability and comfort.
- TRAX SAS RUBBER: Offers excellent friction and durability.
- MIDSOLE: 1.0mm Full-Length with Arch Wings for enhanced support.
- MOLDED VTR: Evolv's Variable Thickness Rand system ensures pressure point relief while maintaining durability in high wear areas.
- FULL-LENGTH MIDSOLE & OUTSOLE: Maximizes support and comfort during climbs.
- PROFILE: Asymmetric shape for improved performance.
- WEIGHT: 8.7oz per shoe (SIZE 9 US MEN'S).
Pros
- Excellent fit due to innovative design.
- High-quality materials enhance comfort and performance.
- Durability is emphasized through advanced rubber technology.
- Breathability keeps feet comfortable during extended use.
Cons
- May require a break-in period for optimal comfort.
- Asymmetric profile may not suit all foot shapes.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | EVOLV Rave | La Sportiva Theory | Five Ten Anasazi Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Unlined Leather | Synthetic | Leather |
| Rubber Type | TRAX SAS | Vibram XS Grip | Stealth C4 |
| Weight (per shoe) | 8.7oz | 8.5oz | 10oz |
| Closure Type | Pull-On | Lace | Velcro |
| Best Suited For | Trad and sport climbing | Bouldering | Sport climbing |
Detailed Review
The fit of the EVOLV Rave Climbing Shoes is one of their standout features. The unlined leather upper allows for a custom feel as it molds to your foot over time. You will appreciate the snugness provided by the high-tension heel rand, which enhances your overall confidence while climbing. Even if you have previously struggled with finding the right slipper fit, the Rave offers a solution that feels tailored specifically for you.
Moving onto the performance, the TRAX SAS rubber provides exceptional friction—essential for gripping those tricky holds. The 1.0mm full-length midsole, complemented by arch wings, contributes significantly to your stability and power transfer when edging or smearing. Additionally, the molded VTR system addresses pressure points without sacrificing durability, allowing you to focus on your climb rather than discomfort.
When considering comfort, the breathability of the material stands out, making them suitable for extended use. However, bear in mind that some users report a break-in period before achieving the ideal comfort level. If you're accustomed to a more traditional climbing shoe, transitioning to this asymmetric profile might take some time to get used to.
Overall, the EVOLV Rave Climbing Shoes embody a balance between performance and comfort, making them a formidable choice for climbers looking to elevate their game.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | 9/10 | Exceptional adaptability to foot shape, offering a snug fit. |
| Comfort | 8/10 | Great breathability, though a break-in period may be needed. |
| Performance | 9/10 | Outstanding grip and support during climbs. |
| Durability | 8/10 | High-quality materials ensure lasting use, especially in high wear areas. |
User Reviews
I bought these shoes as an replacement for the discontinued Addict, which I really really liked. This shoe is not nearly as good despite the higher price point. The sole is unnecessarily thick and stiff. The sizing is way off from the same size in Addicts (these run very large). Despite my feet being very snug in the shoe one of the shoes is constantly slipping off while the other stays in place. The upper is pretty comfortable though.This is not a knock on the seller, who I would buy from again