As some of you already know, I've been publishing in-depth information about climbing shoes for years now.
I thought that a post devoted specifically to Oasi vs Oasi LV would be helpful for most of you.
Before you start to read anything about these shoes, I'd highly recommend you to check out my La Sportiva Finale vs Scarpa Helix and Scarpa Origin vs La Sportiva Tarantula posts if you're a newbie.
But, if you're climbing for a long time and looking for performance-based climbing shoes, then go on.
Overview
When Tenaya designed these shoes, they are aiming for versatility and set out to create curved climbing shoes that perform on friction slabs, vertical walls, overhanging routes, and boulder problems.
Shortly, Both shoes offer similar technical features and almost the same visuality, BUT the Oasi has a wider fit and larger heel whereas the Oasi LV is designed for a narrow, female foot. You can go with both shoes if you have narrow feet, otherwise, both shoes excel in vertical, overhanging, and all kinds of bouldering.
- Before going into detail, I want to say that;
- They both have the same upper which is microfiber but, the Oasi comes with lined (TXT-treated cotton) whereas the Oasi LV comes with unlined.
- The most important difference between unlined leather and lined leather is how much they stretch. I can say that unlined leather can stretch a full size while lined leather can stretch half a size.
- In addition to the above, whenever I tried Tenaya's climbing shoes, it's always stinky (except Tenaya Mundaka). Nevertheless, unlined leather provides more breathable climbing shoes compared to lined leather.
- They both have the same upper which is microfiber but, the Oasi comes with lined (TXT-treated cotton) whereas the Oasi LV comes with unlined.
- Before you go, don't forget to check Tenaya's Own Sizing Guide.
Rubber
They both come with a 3.5 mm Vibram XS Grip rubber. Here, I want to talk about the importance of rubber and thicknesses.
Firstly, let's talk about Vibram XS Grip which stands out with a perfect blend of grip, edging performance, and definitely durability. It's ideal for various types of climbing which are steep routes, friction slabs, and overhanging walls.
As you can understand, these shoes provide you with precise grip, and adequate edging capability.
The other feature is thickness which can have a big impact on the sensitivity of climbing shoes.
They both come with a 3.5 mm thickness and I can say that this level of the thickness offers one of the maximum feels among climbing shoes. BUT, don't forget, it takes from durability, which means it'll wear out very quickly.
Conclusion
Let's lay out their summarized review, tech specs, and pros & cons.
Oasi
Tenaya Oasi is designed with an aggressive downturned and asymmetrical toe box, and having XS Grip makes it better at smearing.
You can use the Oasi for various types of climbing. It also allows you to do precise footwork, smearing, and slightly high performance with great comfort.
Pros
Cons
Oasi LV
- Upper: Microfibre
- Closure System: Velcro, patented Draxtor system
- Tongue: Two-layer bellows with perforations
- Cover: Unlined
- Insole: 2D multi-layer Stretchtex
- Midsole: Double midsole GI 1.8 & TST 150
- Sole: Vibram XS Grip 3.5 mm
- Weight: 340 gr.
Tenaya Oasi LV is a version of the Oasi but is designed for the anatomy of the female foot. It comes with an aggressive downturned shape, narrow heel and toe box, and comfort.
The Oasi LV also comes with Vibram XS Grip which is for exceptional friction. The tongue of the Oasi LV provides breathability and the Draxtor Velcro closure ensures an adjustable fit.