Sport Products
For climbers looking to elevate their performance and experience the pinnacle of precision and sensitivity, the Scarpa Drago LV Climbing Shoes are a standout choice in the climbing footwear market. Known for its aggressive downturned shape, unparalleled edging capabilities, and exceptional comfort, this shoe has earned a reputation as one of the best all-around high-performance shoes available. In this comprehensive review, we'll dive deep into every aspect of these incredible climbing shoes from their design and construction to their performance on various types of rock and user feedback. Whether you are an experienced climber or just starting out, this article will provide valuable insights to help you determine if the Scarpa Drago LV Climbing Shoes are right for you.
The Scarpa Drago LV is a marvel of engineering designed specifically for technical climbing routes that demand precision and power. It features a last with an aggressive downturned shape that pulls your toes into position, maximizing contact with small holds. The shoe's upper is constructed from a soft microfiber leather which offers excellent breathability while also providing structure and support. Scarpa has incorporated their patented "Vibram XS Edge" rubber compound in the Drago LV, known for its exceptional edging performance and durability. The lacing system extends further down onto the forefoot than most other climbing shoes, allowing you to fine-tune tension across your toes with greater precision. This is a particularly useful feature for climbers who have specific fit preferences or foot shapes. The heel cup is firm and supportive, providing excellent stability when edging on small holds. The overall design of the Scarpa Drago LV leans towards a more aggressive profile compared to other high-performance climbing shoes, making it ideal for steep sport routes, overhanging boulder problems, and technical trad climbs. However, its relatively comfortable fit allows you to wear them longer than many other downturned options without compromising your foot health or performance.
Comfort is often sacrificed in the pursuit of high-performance climbing shoes, but Scarpa has managed to strike a balance with the Drago LV. The shoes last provides ample room for your toes while still offering enough tension to maintain precise control over your movements. The soft microfiber upper conforms to the shape of your foot relatively quickly, allowing you to break them in without significant discomfort. While some climbers may find the initial fit snug, it's not overly tight or constricting like other aggressive shoes. The extended lacing system allows for a customizable fit and helps alleviate pressure points that can occur with more traditional lacing systems. The heel cup is also well-designed to cradle your heel without being too restrictive. Keep in mind the "LV" designation stands for "Low Volume," which means it's designed specifically for climbers with narrower feet and lower insteps. If you have wider feet or higher arches, this shoe might not be the best fit for you. However, if you fall within the low-volume category, you'll appreciate the snug and precise feel of these shoes.
The Scarpa Drago LV is renowned for its durability, thanks in part to the high-quality materials used in their construction. The Vibram XS Edge rubber compound offers excellent resistance to wear and tear, even on abrasive rock types like granite or sandstone. While all climbing shoes will eventually show signs of use, these shoes tend to hold up remarkably well compared to other models in their class. The microfiber leather upper is also fairly resistant to scuffs and tears, though it can be susceptible to damage from sharp edges or prolonged exposure to moisture. We recommend regularly cleaning your Scarpa Drago LV Climbing Shoes with a damp cloth and allowing them to air dry completely after each climbing session. Applying a rubber rejuvenator occasionally will help maintain the elasticity of the Vibram rubber compound and prolong its lifespan. It's important to note that while these shoes are durable, they should still be treated with care. Avoid walking around in them on abrasive surfaces or storing them in damp environments as this can significantly shorten their lifespan.
The Scarpa Drago LV Climbing Shoes excel in grip and performance thanks to the combination of a downturned shape, precise fit, and sticky Vibram XS Edge rubber compound. The aggressive profile allows you to easily smear on vertical rock and heel hook with confidence. Its edging capabilities are truly exceptional; these shoes feel like an extension of your feet when locking down on small edges or crimps. You'll notice the difference immediately in how much more secure and stable you feel, even on tiny holds. The precise fit and supportive heel cup further enhance your ability to control your movements and maintain balance while edging. While they are not ideal for slab climbing due to their downturned shape, the Scarpa Drago LV Climbing Shoes perform incredibly well on overhanging routes and boulder problems that require a high level of footwork precision. They're particularly suited for technical cracks and pockets where you need maximum sensitivity and control.
The Scarpa Drago LV Climbing Shoes consistently receive rave reviews from climbers across all skill levels. Heres what some users have to say:
The Scarpa Drago LV Climbing Shoes retail for around $190 USD (prices may vary depending on color and retailer). While this is at the higher end of the price range for climbing shoes, the quality materials, exceptional performance, and durability they offer make them an excellent value proposition. Considering how much use you can get out of these shoes before needing to replace them, the initial investment is well worth it. They are a worthwhile upgrade for climbers looking to take their skills to the next level or tackle more challenging routes.
The Scarpa Drago LV Climbing Shoes are truly exceptional climbing footwear designed for experienced climbers who demand precision and performance on technical terrain. Their aggressive downturned shape, precise fit, sticky Vibram XS Edge rubber compound, and supportive construction make them a standout choice in the high-performance category.
The Scarpa Drago LV is a high-performance climbing shoe designed for experienced climbers looking for sensitivity, precision and power on technical routes. It's known for its downturned shape, aggressive rubber placement, and comfortable fit which allows for long sessions in the gym or outdoors.
The main difference is its low volume last (LV), which means it fits narrower feet better than standard models. It also features a more aggressive downturned shape compared to many all-around climbers, offering excellent edging and heel hooking capabilities. The Vibram XS Edge rubber provides exceptional grip on small holds.
While they offer great performance, these shoes are not recommended for beginners due to their aggressive fit and downturned shape. Beginners will likely find them uncomfortable and may struggle with technical footwork required in these types of shoes. Start with a more comfortable all-around climbing shoe before progressing to the Drago LV.
The Drago LV has a snug, precise fit. Ideally, there should be minimal space between your toes and the end of the shoe when standing flat on the floor. When leaning onto your toes, you should feel slight pressure but not pain or numbness. Its best to try them on in person if possible.
Scarpa sizing can vary slightly depending on the model. Generally, it's recommended to go down a half-size or even a full size from your street shoe size. However, due to its low volume last, you may need to go down less than usual. Its best to try them on and see what feels most comfortable.
Yes! The Scarpa Drago LV is highly regarded as one of the best climbing shoes for bouldering due to their aggressive downturned shape, excellent edging ability and sticky rubber that excels on small holds.
Breaking these shoes in can be a bit tricky due to their stiffness. Wear them around your house for short periods each day while doing everyday tasks. You can also wear them indoors at the climbing gym before taking them outdoors. Gradually increase the time you wear them over several days or weeks until they feel comfortable.
These shoes feature Vibram XS Edge rubber, which is known for its exceptional edging performance and durability. It provides excellent grip on small holds but may be less sticky than softer rubbers like Vibram XS Grip 2.
The lifespan of any climbing shoe depends on how often you use them and the type of terrain you climb on. With proper care, these shoes can last anywhere from six months to two years or even longer for more casual climbers.
Yes! These shoes are resolable by professional shoemakers specializing in climbing shoe repair. Resoles will significantly extend the life of your shoes and save you money in the long run.
The main differences lie in their volume and fit. The Scarpa Drago LV has a low-volume last designed for narrower feet, while the standard Drago features a slightly wider last with more room in the toe box. Other variations include different rubber compounds and stiffness levels depending on the model.
Yes! These are excellent gym shoes due to their aggressive shape and sticky rubber, which excels on artificial holds. They're also durable enough to withstand repeated use on plastic walls.
After each climb, clean your shoes with a damp cloth or brush to remove dirt and grime. Let them dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight. Stuff them with paper towels to help maintain their shape when not in use. Avoid storing them in hot or humid environments.
To minimize stretching, avoid wearing them for prolonged periods and don't leave them in warm places like your car. When theyre not being worn, stuff them with paper towels to maintain their shape.
While primarily designed for bouldering, these shoes can also be used for sport climbing on technical routes that require precise footwork and edging. However, if you're a sport climber who focuses on long multi-pitch climbs, you might prefer a more comfortable all-around shoe.
The Drago LV features an asymmetrical heel cup with excellent hooking capabilities, making it ideal for technical routes that require powerful heel hooks.
Color and pattern are purely aesthetic choices! Choose whichever you think looks best. However, darker colors may show less wear over time.
You can find them at most reputable climbing gear retailers both online and brick-and-mortar stores. Check out Gear Store for availability and pricing. You can also search for local climbing shops using Google Maps.
Scarpa offers a limited one-year manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials or workmanship from the date of purchase. This warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, wear and tear, or improper care. Be sure to read the full warranty details before purchasing.