La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids Review

Let’s Dive into La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids

The La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids is a thoughtfully designed entry point into the world of climbing footwear for young adventurers. La Sportiva, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation in climbing, has created a shoe that addresses the unique needs of growing feet and the demands of developing climbers. With its adjustable fit system and sticky rubber, the Stickit aims to provide both comfort and performance for kids tackling the climbing wall.

My daughter, Maya, had expressed a growing interest in climbing at our local gym, and her old hand-me-down sneakers simply weren’t cutting it anymore. She needed a shoe that would provide better grip and allow her to feel the holds, but also one that wouldn’t break the bank considering how quickly kids outgrow things. The promise of an adjustable fit and durable construction drew me to the La Sportiva Stickit.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the vibrant “Chili/Poppy” color scheme. The suede leather upper felt soft and flexible, and the overall construction seemed solid and well-made. The shoe felt surprisingly lightweight at only 3.95 oz, which is crucial for young climbers who don’t need any extra weight holding them back.

Compared to other entry-level kids’ climbing shoes, the Stickit stood out due to its La Sportiva pedigree and the adjustable heel design. Some other brands felt flimsy or lacked the adjustability needed to accommodate growth spurts. I ultimately chose the Stickit for its reputation for quality and its promise of longevity.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see Maya try them out, but also aware that kids’ gear can sometimes be a letdown. The Stickit, however, seemed to strike a good balance between affordability, durability, and performance, making it a promising contender for her first dedicated climbing shoe.

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Real-World Testing: Putting La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids to the Test

First Use Experience

We took the La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids to our local indoor climbing gym for its maiden voyage. Maya immediately loved the bright colors and the fun “Stickit sticky climbing frog” theme. She was eager to put them on and hit the wall.

The performance was immediately noticeable. The 3mm FriXion RS outsole provided excellent grip on the holds, allowing her to stick moves that were previously impossible in her sneakers. The shoes allowed her to feel more confident and secure as she navigated the routes.

The lacing system, while seemingly simple, proved crucial in getting a snug and comfortable fit. There was a slight learning curve in adjusting the heel tension lace correctly, but once dialed in, it held her heel securely in place. After the first few climbs, she felt comfortable and confident in the shoes, showing no signs of discomfort.

There were no immediate issues after the first use. The Stickit performed exactly as hoped, providing a solid and confidence-inspiring climbing experience for my daughter.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use (2-3 times per week at the climbing gym), the La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids has held up remarkably well. The suede leather has shown some minor scuffs and wear, but the overall construction remains solid. The sole hasn’t delaminated and the laces are still in great shape.

Despite the rigorous use, there are no significant signs of wear and tear. The FriXion RS rubber is proving to be quite durable, maintaining its stickiness even after repeated use on textured climbing walls. The unlined interior is easy to wipe down and clean after each session, preventing any unpleasant odors from developing.

Maintenance is incredibly straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep them clean. I’ve also occasionally used a specialized climbing shoe cleaner to remove stubborn dirt and grime. In terms of durability and maintenance, the Stickit outperforms other kids’ shoes we’ve tried in the past, which often fell apart after a few months.

Compared to Maya’s previous climbing footwear (mostly hand-me-down sneakers), the Stickit is a night-and-day difference. It provides far superior grip, support, and comfort, allowing her to progress more quickly and safely in her climbing skills. This has been well worth the investment.

Breaking Down the Features of La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids

Specifications

• Manufacturer: La Sportiva is a renowned brand known for its high-quality climbing and mountaineering gear. Their expertise is evident in the design and construction of the Stickit.
• Gender: Unisex, making it suitable for both boys and girls. This broad appeal simplifies the buying process.
• Age Group: Specifically designed for kids, considering the unique needs of growing feet. The adjustable features cater to this demographic.
• Kid’s Shoe Width: Medium, which should accommodate a wide range of foot shapes. This is a good compromise for a general-purpose kids’ shoe.
• Color: Chili/Poppy, a vibrant and appealing color scheme that kids will love. The bright colors add to the shoe’s fun aesthetic.
• Footwear Type: Shoes, specifically designed for climbing activities. This is a dedicated climbing shoe, not a general-purpose athletic shoe.
• Activity: Climbing, highlighting its intended use. It is optimized for the demands of indoor and outdoor climbing.
• Footwear Closure: Laces, allowing for a secure and adjustable fit. Laces provide a more customizable fit compared to velcro straps.
• Fabric/Material: Suede Leather/Tubular Construction, offering a balance of comfort, durability, and breathability. Suede leather provides a soft and flexible feel.
• Footwear Upper Fabric/Material: Leather, providing durability and support. Leather conforms to the foot over time, enhancing comfort.
• Weight: 3.95 oz, making it lightweight and comfortable for kids to wear. Lightweight shoes reduce fatigue and improve performance.
• Lining Material: Unlined, enhancing breathability and minimizing moisture buildup. Unlined shoes can be more sensitive to abrasion.
• Outsole Material: 3mm FriXion RS, providing excellent grip on various climbing surfaces. FriXion RS rubber is known for its balance of stickiness and durability.
• Midsole Material: Slip Lasted, offering flexibility and sensitivity for feeling the holds. Slip lasted construction allows the shoe to flex naturally with the foot.
• Lining: Unlined, again emphasizing breathability and reducing weight. Unlined construction also provides a closer feel for the rock.

Performance & Functionality

The La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids excels at providing young climbers with the grip and support they need to confidently tackle climbing routes. Its sticky FriXion RS rubber adheres well to both indoor and outdoor climbing holds, instilling confidence and allowing for improved technique. The adjustability of the shoe is crucial for accommodating growing feet, maximizing its lifespan and value.

The shoe’s strengths lie in its excellent grip, adjustable fit, and durable construction. The unlined design, while breathable, could potentially be less comfortable for extended wear or sensitive feet. Overall, the Stickit exceeds expectations for a kids’ climbing shoe, offering a level of performance and quality typically found in adult models.

Design & Ergonomics

The La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids boasts a thoughtful design that balances performance with comfort. The suede leather upper is soft and pliable, minimizing pressure points and hot spots. The lacing system allows for a secure and customizable fit, while the low-profile design enhances sensitivity and feel for the rock.

The shoe is generally user-friendly, though the lacing system may require some initial adjustment to find the optimal fit. The bright colors and frog-themed graphics make it visually appealing to kids, encouraging them to wear and use the shoes.

Durability & Maintenance

The La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids is built to withstand the rigors of climbing, with its durable suede leather upper and abrasion-resistant FriXion RS rubber outsole. With proper care, the shoe should last for a reasonable amount of time, even with frequent use. The adjustable heel tension lace also contributes to longevity, allowing the shoe to adapt as the child’s foot grows.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional use of a climbing shoe cleaner will help to keep the shoes in good condition. The unlined interior is easy to wipe down and dry, preventing the buildup of moisture and odors.

Accessories and Customization Options

The La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids doesn’t come with a wide range of accessories, but its primary focus is on providing a solid foundation for climbing. Its compatibility with different types of climbing holds and surfaces makes it a versatile choice for both indoor and outdoor use.

While customization options are limited, the lacing system allows for a degree of adjustability to fine-tune the fit. The shoe is also compatible with aftermarket climbing shoe cleaners and deodorizers, allowing for personalized maintenance and care.

Pros and Cons of La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids

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Who Should Buy La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids?

The La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids is perfect for young climbers who are serious about improving their skills and enjoying the sport. It is ideal for kids who regularly climb at indoor gyms or outdoor crags and need a shoe that provides both performance and comfort. This is a solid choice for parents looking for a durable and adjustable climbing shoe that will last.

This product may not be the best choice for casual climbers who only occasionally visit the climbing gym. Those users might find a less expensive option to be more suitable. Kids with particularly sensitive feet might also prefer a shoe with a more cushioned or lined interior.

A must-have accessory for the La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids is a good quality climbing shoe cleaner and deodorizer. This will help to keep the shoes in good condition and prevent the buildup of unpleasant odors. Also, make sure to check the laces regularly and replace them if they show signs of wear.

Conclusion on La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids

The La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids is an excellent choice for young climbers seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and durability. Its adjustable fit and sticky rubber sole make it a valuable investment for kids who are serious about improving their climbing skills. While the unlined interior may not be ideal for everyone, the overall benefits of the shoe far outweigh this minor drawback.

At $59.00, the price is justified by the shoe’s quality construction, adjustable features, and enhanced climbing performance. For parents looking to equip their young climbers with the best possible gear, the La Sportiva Stickit is a worthwhile investment.

I would personally recommend the La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids to any parent looking for a reliable and high-performing climbing shoe for their child. Give your child the gift of confidence and performance on the climbing wall – get them a pair of La Sportiva Stickit Climbing Shoe – Kids today!