User Review: La Sportiva Venom

La Sportiva Venom
Above: The current Venom, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed April 23, 2005 by Vodkasim

Rating:
Price Paid: Euros 60

Before my Venoms, I used an excellent pair of La Sportiva Cobras for a couple of years till they wore out. I happened to stumble across the Venoms on sale when I was looking for a replacement pair of Cobras and debated about whether to stick with something tried and trusted or to take a chance. In the end, I went for the Venoms as they were a newer, slightly more aggressive design and only 10 Euros more.

Whilst it's hard to compare a new shoe with an old worn one, I have to say that I was very impressed with the Venoms. A good snug fit, very sensitive to what's under them and very sticky (obvious, I know, as they were new). They're just as easy to get on and off as the Cobras but I found one of the key differences was the lack of stretch, especially over the toes/top of foot where the extra rubber layer keeps them tight. They're great for the gym and short climbs but I generally swap them for a pair of sandals when not climbing so probably wouldn't be ideal for long days.

Save & Share