Evolv Defy and Evolv Bandit

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Messages 1 - 7 of total 7 in this topic

Enthusiast

Sport climber

Port Townsend WA

Topic Author's Original Post - Nov 15, 2012 - 06:47pm PT

I'm trying to decide between the two, but with very limited experience I don't know which to choose. The only rock I've climbed is Chimacum Rock, which is volcanic, and absolutely LITTERED with huecos. There's one simple face climb as well without the pockets, and a few overhanging routes with small holds. So, with that information, which shoe would probably work best? Any other recommended shoes for a beginner?

Tfish

Trad climber

La Crescenta, CA

Nov 15, 2012 - 06:49pm PT

Buy whatever is on sale.

Rankin

Social climber

Greensboro, North Carolina

Nov 15, 2012 - 07:03pm PT

Haven't climbed in the Bandit, but the Defy is pretty good for a price point shoe. I would expect the Bandit to be a bit stiffer and, therefor, better at edging. If you want with a more sensitive shoe like the Defy, I would recommend the Pontas. It's better made and I like the toe box shape a little bit more.

For a beginner people usually recommend a stiffer shoe, but I think either of those shoes would be great. Whichever you choose, size them comfortably, because they will not stretch. Good luck and have fun.

ChampionSleeper

Trad climber

Phoenix, AZ

Nov 15, 2012 - 07:07pm PT

I normally like evolv, but really didn't care for the bandit.

I think something like the bandit is better suited for slab or crack climbing though. I'd prefer the 5.10 Moccasyms for either of those.

I like the Pontas for a tighter/sport shoe. It sounds like that is what you are after anyways.

Kalimon

Trad climber

Ridgway, CO

Nov 15, 2012 - 08:37pm PT

This may be irrelevant, but make sure they fit your foot. It seems like the Evolv shoes are designed for a squat, wide foot, with a square toe profile . . . not for longer, narrower feet.