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La Sportiva Tarantula Review: Comfortable, durable climbing shoes for beginners

La Sportiva Tarantula Space Blue/Maple
4.8
[Tubular Leather Exterior]  Durable leather tubular construction provides robust structure and premium appearance.
[No Lining Design]  Lining-free interior reduces weight and enhances breathability.
[Anterior Pacific Insert]  Anti-deforming insert preserves shoe shape and ensures consistent long-term fit.
[LaSpoFlex Midsole]  1.8mm LaSpoFlex midsole delivers responsive cushioning and flexible comfort.
[Lightweight, Stable Ride]  Balanced design offers lightness with reliable support for all-day wear.
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Shoes for climbing that promise comfortable, durable support during gym and beginner outdoor sessions. Confidence in footwork helps newcomers push grades and stay focused during longer practices. Are the La Sportiva Tarantula the right first climbing shoe for someone starting to climb regularly?

⚡ At a Glance
  • Wearing Comfort: Snug, beginner-friendly fit with Velcro straps for quick adjustment and secure hold
  • Best for: Beginner climbers and regular gym sessions prioritising comfort and durability
  • Not ideal for: Users who prefer an internal lining for warmth or extra padding

Leather tubular exterior pairs with an anterior Pacific anti-deforming insert and a 1.8 mm LaSpoFlex midsole. User feedback highlights a snug fit, durable construction, and Velcro straps for easy on-off.


Quick on-off and precise fit, with Velcro straps

Hook-and-loop Velcro straps secure the forefoot and allow rapid changes to tension without laces. Straps sit across the instep for easy adjustment between climbs.

Fast adjustments save time between attempts and let climbers fine-tune comfort for longer sessions.

Durable upper construction, with leather tubular construction

Leather formed in a tubular construction creates a continuous outer layer that withstands abrasion. The construction helps maintain the shoe's outer shape under repeated use.

Fewer repairs and reliable performance during regular gym use mean the shoe holds up to repeated sessions.

Shape retention and support, thanks to Anterior Pacific insert and LaSpoFlex midsole

Anterior Pacific anti-deforming insert helps prevent the shoe collapsing under load, while the LaSpoFlex 1.8 mm midsole supplies a thin, supportive layer underfoot. Together they preserve structure through use.

Consistent support and maintained shape help learners trust footholds and develop footwork without sudden changes in fit.

✨ The 4 Key Reasons for La Sportiva Tarantula
  1. Velcro straps, Quick, tool-free adjustment for precise fit every session
  2. Leather tubular upper, Resists abrasion during regular gym use, extending usable life
  3. Anterior Pacific insert, Preserves shoe shape under load for consistent support
  4. LaSpoFlex 1.8 mm midsole, Provides reliable underfoot support with minimal bulk
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
  • Category: Shoes
  • Brand: La Sportiva
  • Model: Tarantula
  • Product ID: B09YCD539M
  • Colour: Space Blue/Maple
❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are these shoes suitable for beginners?

A: Yes, user feedback specifically notes a comfortable, snug fit that suits beginners and regular gym climbers.

Q: Do the shoes have an internal lining?

A: No, the lining is absent according to the product description, though an Anterior Pacific anti-deforming insert is present.

Q: How are the shoes adjusted and removed?

A: Velcro straps are used for closure, allowing easy adjustment and quick removal between climbs.

🏆 Our Verdict

The La Sportiva Tarantula suits beginner climbers and regular gym users looking for comfortable, dependable footwear. Leather tubular construction, an anterior Pacific anti-deforming insert, and a 1.8 mm LaSpoFlex midsole combine to deliver durability and consistent support. While an upfront investment may be required, long-term durability and ease of use make the shoes good value for those climbing often.