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    Rendezvu
    On a mission to get more people to enjoy the outdoors© 2026
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    Brand: La Sportiva

    Category: Sport Climbing

    Recommended by John Willard, Founder & Lead Guide @ Willard Mountain Guides — Conway, NH

    Highlights: true to size, all day comfort, crack climbing

    The Katana Lace by La Sportiva is a premium climbing shoe designed for all-day comfort and exceptional performance on challenging terrains. With its slightly downturned toe and subtle asymmetry, this shoe excels in both steep outdoor routes and intricate crack climbing, making it the ultimate choice for serious climbers. 1. Slightly downturned shape enhances precision and power on edges and pockets. 2. Subtle asymmetry provides a natural fit while optimizing performance for technical climbs. 3. Versatile design suitable for both single and multi-pitch routes, excelling in outdoor environments. 4. Comfortable fit allows for extended wear during long climbing sessions without sacrificing performance. 5. Engineered for excellent grip and stability on slabs and in thin cracks, enhancing overall climbing confidence. 6. Available in both Men’s and Women’s styles, catering to a wide range of climbers. 7. Durable materials ensure longevity and resilience against the wear and tear of outdoor climbing. The Katana Lace is ideal for climbers seeking a high-performance shoe for technical rock climbing. It performs best in outdoor settings, particularly on steep and challenging routes, making it suitable for both seasoned climbers and ambitious beginners. This shoe excels in scenarios that require precision footwork, such as sport climbing, trad climbing, and multi-pitch ascents. Its design is optimized for year-round use, ensuring reliable performance in various climbing conditions.

    Price: $239

    Expert Review

    These are my go-to for sport climbs. By far some of the comfiest shoes I've worn. I tend to rock these for sport or crack climbs or climbs that demand hard edging. I wear 43.5 and they fit loosely. If you want to have a send shoe in this, I would suggest sizing a half size down.

    Recommended by John Willard

    Frequently asked questions

    What does John Willard say about the Katana Lace?

    These are my go-to for sport climbs. By far some of the comfiest shoes I've worn. I tend to rock these for sport or crack climbs or climbs that demand hard edging. I wear 43.5 and they fit loosely. If you want to have a send shoe in this, I would suggest sizing a half size down.

    Why does John Willard recommend La Sportiva?

    John Willard recommends the La Sportiva Katana Lace for sport climbing. These are my go-to for sport climbs. By far some of the comfiest shoes I've worn. I tend to rock these for sport or crack climbs or climbs that demand hard edging. I wear 43.5 and they fit loosely. If you want to have a send shoe in this, I would suggest sizing a half size down.

    Rendezvu
    Katana Lace by La Sportiva — recommended by John Willard
    Footwear

    Katana Lace

    John Willard
    John WillardRecommended in “Rock Climbing”
    These are my go-to for sport climbs. By far some of the comfiest shoes I've worn. I tend to rock these for sport or crack climbs or climbs that demand hard edging. I wear 43.5 and they fit loosely. If you want to have a send shoe in this, I would suggest sizing a half size down.
    Purchasing through this link directly supports John
    Footwear

    Katana Lace

    John Willard
    John WillardRecommended in “Rock Climbing”
    These are my go-to for sport climbs. By far some of the comfiest shoes I've worn. I tend to rock these for sport or crack climbs or climbs that demand hard edging. I wear 43.5 and they fit loosely. If you want to have a send shoe in this, I would suggest sizing a half size down.
    Purchasing through this link directly supports John
    Katana Lace by La Sportiva — recommended by John Willard

    This product is for…

    Climbers tackling vertical to steep sport routes, edgy face climbing, or thinner cracks who want stiff support without sacrificing all-day comfort. Works across a wide range of terrain, making it a strong choice as a single do-it-all performance shoe.

    Worth noting…

    Sizing comes up repeatedly: at least one host warns against going too small in a stiff sole, while another recommends a half-size down for a tighter send fit—so try before committing. The lace closure gives a wide range of fit adjustment.

    Is the Katana Lace a good sport climbing?

    Yes — John Willard recommends the Katana Lace by La Sportiva as their sport climbing pick. These are my go-to for sport climbs. By far some of the comfiest shoes I've worn. I tend to rock these for sport or crack climbs or climbs that demand hard edging. I wear 43.5 and they fit loosely. If you want to have a send shoe in this, I would suggest sizing a half size down.

    More from John Willard's Rock Climbing

    • La Sportiva TC Pro
    • Petzl Sirocco Climbing Helmet White S/M
    • Arc'teryx Men's AR-395a Harness
    • Petzl Ange Finesse L/L Quickdraw Set White 17 Cm
    • Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio
    • Garmin inReach Mini 2
    • Black Diamond Speed 40 Backpack
    • Black Diamond Blitz 20 Backpack

    View John Willard's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu