Verdict from 7 experts and 6 user reviews
5 reasons to buy
- Dozens of wearers love the snug fit of the La Sportiva Speedster, especially at the heel.
- This rock climbing shoe from La Sportiva sticks relentlessly on different types of surfaces, according to numerous sources.
- The Speedster smears admirably well, say many of those who have purchased it.
- Some La Sportiva Speedster reviews speak of the shoe’s superb edging prowess.
- Based on about a handful of reports, this incredible climb-specific shoe is pretty versatile.
2 reasons not to buy
- The shoe’s elastic panels loosen too quickly, a couple of testers claim.
- An owner finds the Speedster not very impressive in the comfort department.
Bottom line
Fit-wise, the La Sportiva Speedster may be considered a truly bankable rock climbing shoe. It is also a remarkably versatile piece many can rely on when it comes to surface adherence and smearing capability.
This edging genius, however, might come loose too soon. Overall, the Speedster is yet another La Sportiva gem, thanks to its collection of pros quite worthy of the send.
Tip: see the best climbing shoes.
Good to know
-The La Sportiva Speedster aims to provide movement fluidity in a variety of climbing situations. Its designers gave it a slip-lasted construction and the patented no-edge front end for enhanced sensitivity.
-It comes built with La Sportiva’s Permanent Power Platform or P3. This technology gives the shoe a stronger frame through its randing system, providing improved edging control as a result. Extra arch support is its other benefit.
Downturn. The Speedster from La Sportiva is an aggressively downturned rock shoe. Its beak-like toe zone, which is engineered with the no-edge technology, helps the climber to gain footing on nubbins and micro-edges with as much purchase as possible. When it comes to comfort, kicks of this sort are ideal for single-pitch ascents.
Applications. This aggressive climbing shoe is primarily designed for sport routes and boulder-type projects. It is capable of scaling fissures (cracks), whether indoors or outdoors. Since it is part of La Sportiva’s performance line-up, it can also be used to ascend vertical faces.
The La Sportiva Speedster is a high-volume low-top rock climbing shoe for men and women (unisex). Female patrons may need to go down a full size from their sneaker (street) shoe size to get a comfy fit. Its unlined leather upper might provide a bit of stretch with regular use. The asymmetry of its interior may force the foot to bend inward, causing pressure around the arch and forefoot zones. The shoe’s gore panels provide a personalized fit.
Midsole. The Speedster lacks a standard midsole. In its place is the P3 rand, which reinforces both the medial and heel sections of the shoe.
Outsole. Owners can set foot on different types of surfaces with sufficient slip and skid resistance thanks to the Speedster’s Vibram XS Grip 2 outsole. It has an overall thickness of 3 millimeters.
A combination of suede leather and microfiber makes up the main shell of the La Sportiva Speedster. It does not come with a liner, translating to a more intimate feel of the surface. Access to and from its confines is made more convenient with three synthetic pull loops. Its high-wear areas, which include the heel and forefoot, come with enough randing for protection and climbing grip. A patch of rubber covers the inner part of the toe box for sticking power during toe hooks and similar maneuvers.
As the Speedster is a slip-on, straps and laces are out. Instead, it uses a pair of stretchy panels to lock the foot in place.
- Senders who are slip-on fans might also want to check out the Cobra (also by La Sportiva).