Our verdict
Wearing the Defy means sending projects in great comfort on day one. Sporting this budget- and beginner-friendly rock climbing shoe also translates to secure ascents, thanks to its super-tenacious outsole. That said, this offering might not be for people who would rather not get stinky feet or those who scale routes laden with edges.
Pros
- Extremely comfortable
- Excellent surface grip
- Highly recommended for entry-level climbers
- Super-affordable
- Highly recommended for entry-level climbers
Cons
- Unable to combat odor properly
- Weak edging
Easy to wear
The Evolv Defy is a remarkable Evolv piece—one that delivers climbing goodness without breaking the bank. It is a solid option if you:
- Prefer a climbing shoe that responds to the various demands of climbers, regardless of skill level.
- Prefer a climbing shoe that is built completely free of any animal substance.
- Excellent underfoot support.
Highly recommended for entry-level climbers
With the Evolv Defy’s Trax-SAS outsole, climbing enthusiasts can mount on virtually all sorts of surfaces with as much slip and skid resistance as possible. Just like the shoe’s supportive midsole, this sticky layer also has a full-length construction. Its thickness is 4.4 millimeters. The shoe's rear end is extended to the back of the shoe, providing users with enough adhesive power for pursuits requiring heel hooking.
Excellent underfoot support
The Defy’s supply of underfoot support comes from its full-length midsole, called MX-P. 1.4 millimeters is its overall thickness.
Excellent ventilation
The Defy from Evolv houses the foot in its Synthratek VX (all-synthetic) upper. It is lined with mesh imbued with Agion’s anti-microbial technology that manages odor. Its lower perimeter is wrapped with a protective rubber rand—the main ingredient of the molded VTR technology. The non-randed parts of the upper have generous perforations, which improve the shoe’s overall breathability.
Easy to wear
Stitched securely to its heel are two pull loops. They work hand in hand with the split tongue in making on and off a relatively simple affair. Also coming in twos is Defy’s adjustable straps, both of which are furnished with Velcro fasteners.
