A pair of orange and black La Sportiva climbing shoes resting on a black mat in an indoor climbing gym, with a wooden climbing wall and holds blurred in the background.

La Sportiva Python Review: The Best Fit for Narrow Feet

As a climber with narrow feet, finding the perfect climbing shoe has always been a challenge for me. That is, until I discovered the La Sportiva Python. This shoe has become one of my personal favorites, striking the perfect balance between performance, comfort, and durability. In this detailed review, I’ll share my experiences with the Python and explain why it’s an excellent choice for climbers, especially those with narrow feet.

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Table of Contents


First Impressions

The La Sportiva Python immediately catches attention with its sleek, minimalistic design. The shoe is crafted with a soft, unlined leather upper that promises to mold comfortably to your foot shape over time. Its slightly downturned shape and asymmetrical last hint at a shoe that’s built for precision without sacrificing comfort. The elasticated slipper-style entry combined with a Velcro strap offers a secure, customized fit, making it suitable for dynamic climbing and technical footwork.

Front-facing view of a pair of orange and black La Sportiva climbing shoes placed on a black mat, with an indoor climbing wall featuring yellow and gray holds visible in the blurred background.
A frontal view of La Sportiva Python climbing shoes, highlighting their distinctive orange and black color and downturned toe.

Fit and Comfort

One of the standout features of the La Sportiva Python is how well it accommodates narrow feet. The slipper-style design hugs the foot snugly, while the Velcro strap allows for a customizable level of tightness. I found that the leather upper stretches just enough after a few sessions, molding perfectly to my foot shape and creating a comfortable, glove-like feel. This adaptability means you get both an optimal fit and a supportive hold.

For those wondering about sizing, I recommend trying the Python a half or full size down from your regular street shoe. For reference, I found that downsizing to a 9/43 (US/EU) from my usual 11/45 (US/EU) street size provided the ideal snug fit for performance without excessive discomfort. This snug fit ensures that the shoe doesn’t shift on more technical or aggressive routes, giving me confidence in my footwork.

Performance on the Wall

The La Sportiva Python truly excels when put to the test in both indoor and outdoor climbing environments. Equipped with Vibram XS Edge rubber, the shoe offers outstanding edging capabilities and holds precision on small, challenging footholds. Whether I’m smearing on sloped surfaces or hooking on overhanging walls, the Python’s sensitive midsole allows me to feel secure and in control.

One of the most impressive design aspects of the Python is its heel cup. The addition of a small strip of protruding rubber enhances heel-hooking performance, making it stable and comfortable even on strenuous overhanging routes. This thoughtful feature boosts my confidence during demanding climbs where heel hooks are essential.

Durability and Sensitivity

The La Sportiva Python is crafted to maintain an excellent balance between durability and sensitivity, an aspect that many high-performance climbing shoes struggle with. The Vibram XS Edge rubber is known for its resilience, withstanding regular use while still providing reliable grip. The leather upper has proven to be long-lasting and holds up well under the pressures of intense climbing sessions. Despite its durability, the Python remains sensitive enough for climbers to feel subtle changes in footholds, ensuring precise placement and movement.

A man bouldering outdoors on a steep natural rock, stretching dynamically with precise footwork and climbing gear nearby.
A climber flagging on a challenging boulder, framed by moss-covered rocks and a lush forest setting.

Pros and Cons of La Sportiva Python

Pros:

  • Excellent fit for narrow feet: Snug slipper-style design with a customizable Velcro strap.
  • High sensitivity: Perfect for smearing and toe-hooking on technical routes.
  • Durable construction: Long-lasting Vibram XS Edge rubber and robust leather upper.
  • Impressive heel-hooking: Thoughtful heel cup design for stability on complex moves.
  • Comfortable: Leather upper stretches for a personalized fit.

Cons:

  • Not ideal for wide feet: Climbers with wider feet might find the fit too tight or restrictive.
  • Moderate break-in period: The unlined leather requires some sessions to mold comfortably.
  • Not the most aggressive option: While great for many styles, climbers seeking an ultra-aggressive downturn might prefer other models.

The La Sportiva Python has become my go-to climbing shoe for good reason. Its unique combination of comfort, precision, and durability makes it an outstanding option for climbers, especially those with narrow feet. Whether I’m pushing myself on a tricky bouldering problem or taking on a challenging sport route, the Python consistently delivers.

A collection of climbing shoes, including bright orange La Sportiva and blue Scarpa models, arranged on a vibrant, patterned rug, showcasing diverse designs for different climbing styles.
A lineup of climbing shoes arranged on a patterned mat, highlighting different styles and brands.

If you’re a climber with narrow feet looking for a shoe that provides an ideal blend of high performance, comfort, and long-lasting durability, I highly recommend trying the La Sportiva Python. It could very well become your favorite climbing companion, as it has for me!


FAQs

How does the La Sportiva Python fit compared to other climbing shoes?

The La Sportiva Python generally fits true to size but stretches due to its unlined leather upper. Sizing down half to a full size from your street shoe is recommended for a snug, performance-focused fit.

Is the La Sportiva Python suitable for beginners?

While the Python is more targeted at intermediate to advanced climbers due to its slight downturn and performance design, dedicated beginners looking to improve on technical routes may find it helpful after the initial break-in period.

How durable is the La Sportiva Python?

The Vibram XS Edge rubber and leather upper provide good durability, making the Python a solid investment for regular climbers. However, extensive toe-hooking or use on very rough surfaces may wear down the rubber faster.

Are La Sportiva Pythons comfortable for long climbing sessions?

Yes, the Python is known for its comfortable fit once broken in, thanks to the leather upper that molds to the foot. This makes it suitable for extended sessions without significant discomfort.

What type of climbing is the La Sportiva Python best suited for?

The Python performs exceptionally well on bouldering problems, overhangs, and sport climbs that require precise footwork and sensitivity. Its design allows for reliable toe and heel hooking on challenging routes.