What Would you do for a Sharma Shoe?
The Evolv demo at
Exposure this Wednesday was a tempered
success. The decision Exposure and Evolv made to present
to the gym and its members the opportunity to test the quality of product
created an obligation for curious climbers to attend. Having the demo on ladies
night and week one of March Madness comp was well played.
I arrived in time to
catch the Evolve team set up. The three tables were set to showcase the newest
and highest rated shoes. From Shamans to Bandits, Rockstars and Vengas, Evolve'
spread produced an array of colorful temptation and curiosity. I was most
anticipating climbing in the Shamans, Evolvs' newest shoe designed by that one
guy Chris Sharma, you've probably heard his name thrown around so I won’t
elaborate on his credibility. Matt Dendy, who was working the demo, had
helped me with sizing and recommended one half size down from street shoes.
With crushing in mind and my I.D. held hostage, I was given a pair of 7.5 Shamans
and took to the Prow.
The deference of Chris Sharma can only carry a brand so far without needing to asses the competitive market. The Shaman is Evolvs response to La Sportivas' Solution and 5.10's Dragons by including an aggressive down turned toe and forced last. Once warm the Shamans fit well and were even somewhat comfortable. The toe boxes were wide and did a good job with reinforcing
the arch of my foot. I did not like the heel cup. When heel hooking the bagginess came to fruition; however, take into consideration I have fin like feet with a wide forefoot and narrow
heels. After trying on and climbing with every other pair Evolv had to offer I
realized the Shaman was the best fit for my climbing style, aggressive demands, and foot shape. And even then it fell short. The average price for an Evolv shoe is $125. The brand markets a balance of comfort, durability, affordability, and aggression, but fails to fully commit to any of these selling points.
In conclusion
- Evolv had many styles and sizes to try including the new
Shamans to climb in.
- The Evolv team working the demo was friendly and
informative.
- The Shaman was the only pair that felt climbable for my
particular foot.
- Evolv shoes are a well balanced shoe and come in many shapes and sizes.
- Shoes are subjective to shapes and sizes of feet, style, preference, comfort, and even price. With that in mind go to a demo and try some out.
