I have been mostly using my La Sportiva Gandas while guiding in the Front Range and Red Rocks and could not really imagine a shoe that would equal it. When the Boulder X came out I did not see a fit for my everyday use. Once I got it on my feet my pre conceived ideas were quickly changed. This is the most comfortable approach shoe I have ever worn that also climbs like a champ. The Boulder X comes from a long history in the La Sportiva line up and this shoe improves and has built on its ancestry. The padding in this shoe is what puts it above its competitors. The Vibram Idro Grip rubber is some of the stickiest I have ever used in an approach shoe. The tread is quite deep while not compromising traction and will greatly prolong its life. The shoe is built to last and this may be its only drawback as its a bit on the heavy side and slightly warm. In my opinion this is a reasonable trade off, as I want my shoes to last.
So far, I have used the shoe for a total of 19 days of guiding in Red Rocks and Smith Rocks where I even used it to climb the uber classic Johny Vegas to Solar Slab; a linkup of 10 pitches. Messing around on top rope I was even able to send the classic 12a Heinous Cling with the Boulder X although I did have to pull a bit harder. The Boulder X will be my workhorse for work and play. Come join me for a day of climbing in Eldo. The season is here!!
WEIGHT: 16.97 oz/ 481 g LAST: Boulder CONSTRUCTION: Board Lasted UPPER: Leather LINING: Mesh (back half and tongue only) INSOLE: 2mm Polyproylene/2mm La SpEVA MIDSOLE: Micropore EVA SOLE: Vibram® Idro-Grip V-Smear™ Impact Brake System™
Dale Remsberg
CMS Head Guide
IFMGA Certified Guide
dremsberg@totalclimbing.com
www.totalclimbing.com
8 comments:
How do these fit? Do they run 1/2 size small like other Sportiva's? Want to order; can't try on anywhere near me thanks.
The Boulder X fit a little on the small side. I would recommend fitting a half size bigger than your other Sportiva shoes. They have some extra padding that makes them a little snug compared to other Sportivas. It just depends on if you're looking for a tighter or more cush fit.
I agree 100% on the comfort, these things are cush! Here's another review, but I pretty much agree with everything that's been said here: http://www.splitterchoss.com/2010/05/07/la-sportiva-boulder-x-review/
How are these running on the trails? I'm guessing they're better than the Exum at edging, and maybe not as flexable as the Exum, but could you do any running in them or are they boot stiff?
Thinking of doing some peak running/climbs and scramble climbing mixed with running locally.
Those are some amazing tennis, I used to have this model of shoes, they are extremely comfort and light, they are excellent for a daily use.
This is the tennis shoes I need because I can wear them in the city and also I can use them in the mountain, that's too perfect for us.
I will probably buy these shoes. One concern which is holding me back, is regarding the shoes durability. What does yoor experience tell?
Thaanks great blog post
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