Evolv Defy climbing shoe review

The Evolv Defy is the most trusted beginner’s climbing shoe. While the La Sportiva Oxygym (view on SingleGeared) is now hot on its tail, the Defy has been the trusted beginner’s shoe for over a decade now. In fact, it’s the first shoe I ever bought back when it was jet black.

The colors have changed and along with it some of the features.

Firstly, there are now two versions – the Defy and the Defy Black.

The Defy is more akin to the classic Defy which has a neutral sole and a dual velcro enclosure.

The Defy Black is not just darker, but also has a dual velcro enclosure with opposing closures. This has become the gold standard in the industry (look at the Otaki), so it’s heartening to see these features being added to an entry-level shoe like the Defy.

Here’s our review.

Evolv Defy Review

As said above, the Defy is the quintessential first climbing shoe. With its neutral sole and sticky Evolv-dedicated rubber, the Defy stays on any hold but the tiniest toe hold. The rubber does not wear down super quickly either, so it will last you a long time as you learn to enjoy rock climbing and progress in your skillset.

The Defy has a synthetic upper, which means it will not mold to your foot like leather but it will be incredibly comfortable.

Its dual heel pull straps help you pull it on, which is useful when you wear them a size or so smaller than your usual shoes. It also makes them easier to take off after a long climbing session.

The Defy is not a precise shoe. It is fantastic for beginners because you are often not standing on the smallest toe holds or doing heel hooks, thus the fit and hold do not need to be perfect.

The Defy’s toe box is large enough to allow you to smear on walls as you get used to climbing, but the neutral sole also means that you will not kill your toes while you do it with less than perfect form.

The Defy is a fantastic beginner climbing shoe that you should consider for your first pair of proper climbing shoes.

Evolv Defy Pictures

Evolv Defy Features

These are the features of the Evolv Defy:

  • Synthetic
  • Made in US
  • Synthetic sole
  • Profile: Asymmetrical
  • Upper: Synthetic (perforated Synthratek upper); Lining: Nylon (comfortable and plush)
  • Midsole: MX-P: 1mm sensitive half-length
  • Rand: VTR rand (thick front toe area)
  • Sole: 4.2mm TRAX® high friction rubber

Buy on Backcountry $88.95

Buy on Amazon $88.95

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