La Sportiva’s classic Cobra slipper, introduced in 1998, has been revamped with
a Velcro closure, “cross-band construction,” more heel rubber, and a rubber toe
patch. The new LA SPORTIVA PYTHON ($130, sportiva.com) was designed with
climbing competitions in mind, but it crushes rock as well as plastic. Its asymmetric
shape and downturned toe provide aggressive bite on overhangs. Testers lauded
the Python as being “extremely comfortable and sensitive,” yet the cross-band
construction—a wide band of rubber that wraps the shoe diagonally from the top
of the heel around the arch of the foot—ensures the Python will maintain its shape
better than other sensitive slippers.
A thin (3.5mm) and sticky Vibram XS Grip2 rubber sole offers superior grab
on the steeps, while a slim (0.8mm) forefoot midsole enhances performance on
micro-edges. The uppers are unlined suede with a single Velcro strap that improves
fit and adjustability over a typical slipper. An additional patch of toe rubber atop the
forefoot, along with a rubber-coated heel, make the Python one of the best “hookers”
on the market. The unique closure system helps tune the fit, but size ’em tight
(La Sportiva recommends one half-size smaller than its other models) for optimum
performance, and allow a longer-than-usual break-in period. —Chris Weidner
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