May 28, 2021

Climbing Shoes La Sportiva Miura VS Review in 2023

by Bernice

The Miura VS climbing shoe is among the classic climbing shoes from La Sportiva, providing incredible performance on a variety of terrain.

This rigid, aggressive climbing shoe is one of the best for edging on small surfaces, and most climbers prefer it for steep boulders, vertical granite routes, and technical climbs. 

We tested this shoe, and below we will review it in detail, from the comfort and fit to the toe box and heel.

To find out how this shoe faired when we were testing it. Here is the La Sportiva Miura VS review. 


Table of Contents
La Sportiva Miura VS
Climbing Shoes La Sportiva Miura VS Review

What we like about La Sportiva Miura VS Climbing Shoes:

  • Excels at edging
  • Rigid
  • Ideal for pockets
La Sportiva Women's Climbing Shoe, Blue Blue 000, 1.5UK Child
  • Climbing Material > Cat Feet > Sport > Woman

Last update on 2023-09-26 // Source: Amazon Affiliates

What we don’t like about La Sportiva Miura VS Climbing Shoes:

  • Not very sensitive
  • Uncomfortable

La Sportiva Miura VS Feature Highlights

A high-performance climbing shoe with a hook-and-loop closure system for amazing edging control and pocket climbing performance.

La Sportiva Miura VS Feature Toe Box

The toe box of the Miura VS is incredible, and it makes this climbing shoe excellent for even standing on minor holds.

These climbing shoes will make the slippery and almost impossible edges to maneuver feel like nothing.

This is thanks to a combination of various handy design features. 

The asymmetrical toe and rigid rubber focus most of the power on your toes and are definitely contributing factors to the impressive performance offered by the toe box.

However, the power hinge and slingshot rand are the two variables of combined engineering that come in handy and set this climbing shoe apart from its competition.

The slingshot rand is the rubber that wraps across the whole shoe.

It is tensioned and is linked to the power hinge, so once you apply a lot of weight to the toes, the rubber stretches towards the back instead of the front. 

The powered hinge is a hole beneath the sole.

This is somewhat technical, though what is important to note is that the genius construction of this climbing shoe helps to focus your body weight on the toes and hold on to even the minor footholds. 

On the other hand, this shoe does come with a few downsides. It does not toe the hook as impressively as its edges.

In addition, the toe rand is marginal, which leaves you with a small amount of rubber-to-toe hook.

Our testers also realized that the first Velcro strap is a bit near the toe box, which impacted their ability to achieve a solid hook.

La Sportiva Miura VC Toe
La Sportiva Miura VS Toe Box
La Sportiva Women's Climbing Shoe, Blue Blue 000, 1.5UK Child
  • Climbing Material > Cat Feet > Sport > Woman

Last update on 2023-09-26 // Source: Amazon Affiliates

La Sportiva Miura VS Feature Heel

The heel of the Miura VS design translates to a snug fit thanks to the slingshot rand.

This fit makes heel hooking comfortable and secure. In addition, the relatively thick rubber incorporated by the manufacturer offers you a bit more protection from rocks and aids in sticking several gnarly hooks. 

On the other hand, the minimal heel construction does have a few shortcomings.

For example, some climbing shoes from La Sportiva, such as the Solution, feature a heel cup made of rubber handy in trying technical hooks.

This design, compared to the Miura’s, which features a minimal heel and one strip of rubber wrapped around the back of the heel, indeed provides the reduced ability to heel hook. 

La Sportiva Miura VC Heel
La Sportiva Miura VS Heel
La Sportiva Women's Climbing Shoe, Blue Blue 000, 1.5UK Child
  • Climbing Material > Cat Feet > Sport > Woman

Last update on 2023-09-26 // Source: Amazon Affiliates

La Sportiva Miura VS Feature Rubber

The men’s version of the Miura VS is made using the Vibram XS Edge rubber compound.

This 4mm rubber is a robust compound and is infamous for its rigidity and durability.

On the other hand, the women’s version features the Vibram XS Grip2 rubber.

This is a softer and obviously less sturdy rubber. 

The logic behind this is that men are weightier and require a more durable platform so as to edge well.

Meanwhile, women get less durable and softer rubber since they are lighter.

But the XS Grip 2 rubber offers a bit more give, meaning more friction.

However, this all comes down to preference; numerous male climbers use the women’s Miura version and love it since it has a tackier and softer sole.

On the other hand, some female climbers love the solid feel of climbing offered by the men’s model. 

La Sportiva Miura VC Rubber
La Sportiva Miura VS Rubber
La Sportiva Women's Climbing Shoe, Blue Blue 000, 1.5UK Child
  • Climbing Material > Cat Feet > Sport > Woman

Last update on 2023-09-26 // Source: Amazon Affiliates

La Sportiva Miura VS Feature Comfort and Fit

If you downsize these shoes a bit, the reality is they will hurt.

So, our testers sized them up by half a size from their normal street shoe size before they could comfortably climb in them. 

The toe has a low-volume build that fits quite well in narrow cracks by pressing down on the upper part of the big toe, which is why it will hurt if you size down too much.

Besides, if you do not size the Miura right, the buckle might be a problem.

Some of our testers felt it pushing down on the upper part of their feet every time they placed them in a smearing position. 

It is mostly a narrow climbing shoe, so if you have wide feet, it will help if you buy the men’s model since it features a wider last.

However, the comfort this climbing shoe has to offer depends on how you size it.

It does not offer much comfort; therefore, you will endure much more pain if you size it wrong. 

This is a high-performance shoe, and they are typically uncomfortable.

The women’s version is not ideal for climbers with wide feet since if your feet swell on hot days, it will be that much more painful to climb with it.

On the other hand, the men’s version is better since it is roomy, though both models are quite painful to break in. 

Must-Have Climbing Shoes for Bouldering and Technical Climbing

Easy on-and-off convenience makes this sporty, high-end edging and smearing shoe a must for bouldering and technical climbing.

La Sportiva pulled key design elements from the Miura and incorporated them into this three-strap hook-and-loop closure system.

The one-piece leather upper has a synthetic lining to control stretch and is unlined under the foot to allow for excellent sensitivity on micro edges and smears.

The Miura VS is built with the P3® platform for a continued downturn shape which makes it excellent for steep overhangs.

La Sportiva Miura VS FAQ

How to wash La Sportiva Miura VS?

To wash La Sportiva Miura VS climbing shoes, follow these steps:

  1. Remove the laces and insoles from the shoes.
  2. Fill a basin with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild detergent.
  3. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the outside of the shoes, paying particular attention to any areas with dirt or stains.
  4. Rinse the shoes thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue.
  5. Stuff the shoes with newspaper or a clean towel to help them retain their shape as they dry.
  6. Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them again. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat sources, which can damage the materials.

How much will the La Sportiva Miura VS stretch?

The amount of stretch in the La Sportiva Miura VS climbing shoe can vary depending on factors such as the materials and how often they are used.

However, generally, these shoes are known to stretch about half a size to a full size over time with frequent use.

What are the key features that distinguish La Sportiva Miura VS from other climbing shoes in the market?

La Sportiva Miura VS climbing shoes have several key features that distinguish them from other climbing shoes in the market, including:

  1. The innovative P3 rand system maintains the shoe’s shape and performance over time, ensuring a consistent fit and edging power.
  2. The aggressive downturned shape provides excellent precision and sensitivity on steep and technical terrain.
  3. The Vibram XS Edge outsole offers exceptional grip and durability on both rock and plastic surfaces.
  4. The leather upper molds to the foot over time, providing a custom fit and increased comfort.
  5. The two-hook and loop closure system allows for easy adjustability and a secure fit.

Can the Miura VS be resoled, and if so, how many times?

Yes, the Miura VS climbing shoe can be resoled multiple times.

The exact number of times the shoe can be resoled depends on factors such as the amount and type of use, as well as the condition of the shoe’s upper.

It is recommended to have the shoe resoled by a professional climbing shoe repair service.

How does the Miura VS perform on different types of rock surfaces and climbing styles?

The Miura VS is a high-performance climbing shoe that excels on a variety of rock surfaces and climbing styles.

It is particularly well-suited for steep, overhanging routes and bouldering due to its aggressive downturned shape and sticky rubber sole.

However, it can also handle vertical and slab climbing with its precise edging capabilities.

The shoe’s stiff sole provides support on small edges and pockets, while its velcro closure system allows for quick and easy adjustments.

Overall, the Miura VS is a versatile shoe that can handle a range of rock types and climbing styles.

What is the fit and sizing like for the Miura VS, and how does it compare to other La Sportiva models?

The fit and sizing of the Miura VS are generally considered to be tight and precise, with a narrow toe box and a slightly downturned shape.

It is recommended to size down a half to a full size from your street shoe size for a performance fit.

Compared to other La Sportiva models, the Miura VS has a similar fit to the Miura lace-up but with the added convenience of a velcro closure.

It also has a similar fit to the Solution but with a slightly narrower toe box.

Overall, the Miura VS is best suited for climbers with lower-volume feet who prioritize precision and edging ability.

How does the Miura VS handle edging and smearing, and what is the durability of the rubber sole?

The Miura VS is known for its excellent edging ability, thanks to its stiff sole and precise toe shape.

It also performs well for smearing due to its sticky Vibram XS Edge rubber sole.

The durability of the rubber sole is generally considered to be good as long as the shoes are used and maintained properly.

What types of climbing are best suited for the Miura VS?

The Miura VS climbing shoe is best suited for technical sport climbing and bouldering, as well as overhanging and steep routes.

Its precise and downturned shape provides excellent edging and toe power, making it a popular choice among advanced climbers.

To Summarize: La Sportiva Miura VS Review

This climbing shoe is advertised as high-performance footwear.

But it is more useful when you know how to use it.

For instance, do not use it for toe hooking; it will disappoint you.

If you are looking for a shoe that will allow you to climb and edge excellently, the Miura VS is the ideal choice.

It is sturdy though it loses its edging ability after excessive wear and tear. 

It is perfect for challenging climbing situations where you can utilize it on tricky edges.

The asymmetric profile also is handy on small rock features.

Compared to the lace version, this Velcro straps model is designed for overhang terrain and boulders.

However, for this shoe to perform excellently, you must size it tightly, meaning it could be painful.

But to climb on a different level, you are at times required to give up comfort.

Though to be sure they’re not unbearably painful, it would help if you tried them on before purchasing. 

La Sportiva Women's Climbing Shoe, Blue Blue 000, 1.5UK Child
  • Climbing Material > Cat Feet > Sport > Woman

Last update on 2023-09-26 // Source: Amazon Affiliates

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Last Updated on March 23, 2023 by Roger

About the author

Bernice

Bernice often jokes that she is better at climbing than walking. With avid parents of climbing, her first encounter with the high vertical rock walls was at the age of one. Her favorite style of climbing is bouldering.

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