Review: Scarpa Drago Climbing Shoes
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Shoe Profile
Aggressive.
Performance
“After wearing these, your girlfriend will dump you because you’ve become too sensitive.” Sticky and snug, they excel at high-end boulder, sport, and gym, but comfort adds versatility for slab and multi-pitch.
Fit
A flexible, thin sole molds to the foot. When asked about comfort, one tester replied, “Are socks comfortable?” A single Velcro strap and an entire forefoot wrapped in rubber make them fit like a vacuum-sealed glove.
Stiffness
One might think the Drago’s ultra-soft sole would suck at edging, but testers insist it edges perfectly, especially on barely there nubs—“as long as you have stately calves like me.” Smearing is a dream on delicate slabs.
Conclusion
A multipurpose all-star slipper offering both comfort and performance for intermediate to advanced climbers. “My go-to shoe. They stay in my car, go wherever I’m going, and do whatever I’m doing.”
$200; scarpa.com
Further reading
Review: Our Top New Climbing Shoes for 2016