Hey guys! Let's dive deep into one of the most talked-about climbing shoes in the market: the La Sportiva Solution Comp. If you're serious about bouldering or sport climbing, chances are you've heard whispers about this shoe. It's designed for high performance, offering a blend of sensitivity, precision, and power. But does it live up to the hype? Is it the right choice for you? Let's break it down.

What Makes the Solution Comp Special?

The La Sportiva Solution Comp isn't just another climbing shoe; it's a meticulously engineered piece of equipment designed to help you send your projects. The key features that set it apart include:

• Aggressive Downturn: The aggressive downturn is really the heart of the Solution Comp. It's built to tackle steep, overhanging routes and boulder problems. This downturn allows your foot to maintain contact with the rock even when the holds are tiny or severely angled. Think of it as giving you the ability to hook onto holds with your toes, providing unparalleled security and power when you need it most.
• Soft Midsole: Unlike some of its stiffer cousins, the Solution Comp features a softer midsole. This design choice enhances sensitivity, allowing you to feel the nuances of the rock beneath your feet. This is super important for technical climbs where understanding the texture and contours of the holds can make all the difference. You'll be able to trust your feet on delicate smears and micro-edges.
• P3 System: La Sportiva's patented P3 (Permanent Power Platform) system is a game-changer. It ensures that the shoe retains its downturned shape over time. This means that even after months of hard use, your Solution Comps won't flatten out, maintaining their aggressive profile and performance. It's an investment in consistent performance, so you don't have to worry about your shoes losing their edge.
• Toe Patch: The Solution Comp comes equipped with a generous toe patch. This is strategically placed rubber that covers the toe area, providing excellent grip for toe hooks. Toe hooks are essential for modern bouldering and sport climbing, and the Solution Comp's toe patch allows you to execute these moves with confidence and precision. You'll be able to stick those tricky toe hooks and pull through challenging sequences.
• Heel Design: The heel of the Solution Comp is designed for maximum precision and sensitivity. It's narrower than the original Solution, which allows for a snugger fit and better feel when heel hooking. The rubber compound used in the heel is also incredibly sticky, ensuring that you maintain solid contact even on the slickest of surfaces. A well-designed heel is critical for technical heel hooks, and the Solution Comp doesn't disappoint.

Performance and Feel

When you first slip into the La Sportiva Solution Comp, you'll notice the aggressive downturn and the snug fit. These shoes are designed to feel like an extension of your foot, providing a high level of sensitivity and control. The soft midsole allows you to feel every ripple and dimple on the rock, giving you the confidence to trust your feet on even the most delicate holds. The P3 system ensures that the shoe maintains its shape and performance over time, so you can rely on it for consistent results. The toe patch is incredibly sticky, providing excellent grip for toe hooks, and the heel is designed for maximum precision and sensitivity. Overall, the Solution Comp is a high-performance climbing shoe that is built to help you send your projects. They truly shine on steep, overhanging routes and boulder problems, where the aggressive downturn and sticky rubber can be fully utilized. The sensitivity of the shoe also makes it a great choice for technical climbs where understanding the texture and contours of the holds is crucial. However, the Solution Comp may not be the best choice for slab climbing or long routes, where a more comfortable and supportive shoe may be preferable.

Who Is This Shoe For?

The La Sportiva Solution Comp is ideally suited for intermediate to advanced climbers who are focused on bouldering and sport climbing. If you spend most of your time tackling steep, overhanging routes or boulder problems, this shoe could be a game-changer. It's also a great choice for climbers who value sensitivity and precision, as the soft midsole allows you to feel the nuances of the rock beneath your feet. However, the Solution Comp is not the best choice for beginners or those who prefer trad climbing or long multi-pitch routes. The aggressive downturn and snug fit can be uncomfortable for those who are not used to them, and the shoe is not designed for all-day comfort. Additionally, the Solution Comp is a relatively expensive shoe, so it may not be the best choice for climbers who are just starting out and don't want to invest a lot of money in their gear.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the La Sportiva Solution Comp:

Pros:

• Exceptional Performance: Excels on steep, overhanging routes and boulder problems.
• High Sensitivity: Allows you to feel the nuances of the rock beneath your feet.
• Aggressive Downturn: Provides excellent power and precision.
• P3 System: Ensures that the shoe retains its shape over time.
• Sticky Rubber: Offers excellent grip on a variety of surfaces.

Cons:

• Price: Relatively expensive compared to other climbing shoes.
• Comfort: Not the most comfortable shoe for all-day wear.
• Not Ideal for Slabs: The aggressive downturn can make slab climbing difficult.
• Not for Beginners: Requires a certain level of skill and experience to fully appreciate.

Fit and Sizing

Getting the right fit with the La Sportiva Solution Comp is crucial for maximizing performance. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect size:

• Snug Fit: The Solution Comp is designed to fit snugly, but not so tight that it causes pain. Your toes should be slightly curled, but not crushed.
• Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try the shoes on in person at a climbing shop. This will allow you to get a feel for the fit and make sure they are comfortable.
• Consider Your Socks: If you plan to wear socks with your climbing shoes, be sure to try them on with socks. This will ensure that you get the right size.
• Break-In Period: Keep in mind that the Solution Comp will stretch slightly over time, so it's better to err on the side of a slightly tighter fit.

Alternatives to the Solution Comp

If the La Sportiva Solution Comp doesn't seem like the right fit for you, there are several other excellent climbing shoes to consider. Here are a few alternatives:

• La Sportiva Solution: The original Solution is a slightly stiffer and more supportive shoe than the Solution Comp. It's a great choice for climbers who want a shoe that can handle a variety of terrain.
• Five Ten Hiangle: The Hiangle is a versatile shoe that performs well on both steep and slabby routes. It's a good choice for climbers who want a shoe that can do it all.
• Scarpa Instinct VS: The Instinct VS is a high-performance shoe that is known for its precision and sensitivity. It's a great choice for climbers who want a shoe that can help them push their limits.

Final Thoughts

The La Sportiva Solution Comp is a top-tier climbing shoe that is designed for high-performance bouldering and sport climbing. Its aggressive downturn, soft midsole, and sticky rubber make it an excellent choice for tackling steep, overhanging routes and boulder problems. While it may not be the most comfortable shoe for all-day wear, its exceptional performance and sensitivity make it a favorite among advanced climbers. If you're serious about pushing your limits and sending your projects, the Solution Comp is definitely worth considering. Just remember to get the right fit and be prepared for a bit of a break-in period. Happy climbing!