Scarpa Vapour V 2025 Review

Minor tweaks make a great all-round climbing shoe even better.

Before diving into this review, I should confess: I’m a huge Vapour V fan. They’re my go-to shoes that I use consistently for all climbing situations. I still reminisce about the original Vapour Vs, which I consider the best shoes I’ve climbed in since my breakthrough days in Anastazi Velcros. While I’ve also used the Vapour lace-ups and the softer, more indoor-focused Vapour S, the Vapour V remains my absolute favourite for all climbing scenarios, both indoors and outdoors. They’re genuinely versatile performers suitable for trad, bouldering, and sport climbing. I know climbers who’ve used these for hard ascents up to 9a, and I regularly rely on them for routes in the 6s and 7s.

Fit and Design

The 2025 model maintains a relatively tight fit compared to earlier versions (though identical to the 2019 model), despite being built on the same FR last. The low-volume design, asymmetrical shape, and slightly downturned toe create that perfect balance between comfort and precision. The microfibre upper, which replaced the leather of the first two models, helps the shoe maintain its shape better over time. My 2019 pairs (I’ve owned three) have retained their shape remarkably well and have even survived resoling from both Scarpa and Llanberis Resoles. I could end this review right here – there simply isn’t a better shoe for intermediate climbers on the market – but you probably want more details!

Materials and Sustainability

The microfibre upper that replaced leather in previous models likely represents the future as manufacturers seek ways to reduce carbon footprints and offer sustainable options to climate-conscious consumers. I’ve had mixed experiences with microfibre uppers before – when reviewing the Scarpa Chimera, I noticed the shoes developed an odour over time (despite not typically having smelly feet). Fortunately, the 2025 Vapour Vs don’t smell any worse than my 2019 models. This might be a worthwhile compromise for sustainability, and there are always products like Boot Bananas if odor becomes an issue. I’ve worn them during this recent warm spring weather without problems, and I’m confident they’ll perform no worse than previous versions in the smell department – though I do have a pair of Scarpa Origin shoes that are banished to the shed due to their nasty whiff!

Key Updates

The 2025 version features several minor tweaks, with the most significant being the toe rand rubber. The new model now has a harder, lower-stretch rubber more similar to the Instinct range. This is excellent news for durability, as the shoes will last longer before needing repairs (I’ve required toe patches on previous models). You’ll notice larger slits and cut-outs on the toe rand, offering better flexibility and accommodating different big toe shapes. The rest of the rand remains unchanged, including the tension band that helps maintain tension at the back of the shoe.

The sole continues to feature the familiar Vibram XS Edge rubber, a mainstay of this model for years. It performs excellently on virtually all rock types (except for polished limestone, which we have plenty of here in Yorkshire, UK) and has proven both durable and flexible. When you eventually wear down the soles, Scarpa offers an excellent resoling service.

Comfort and Performance

The heel shape remains excellent, causing no discomfort even straight out of the box. Two heel tabs are large enough for both fingers and carabiners when attaching to your harness. The padded mesh tongue has been updated to be more breathable while maintaining the comfort of the previous model. The most noticeable difference is the colourway – the yellow has been replaced with a more subdued gunmetal grey.

Comfort-wise, they’ve been fantastic straight out of the box, perhaps because I’m accustomed to the shape. My UK size 7.5 fitted exactly as expected and even performed well on a 35m limestone slab (with my weak calves being the limiting factor rather than shoe performance). If you’ve used previous models, you shouldn’t notice much difference in feel.

Additional Benefits Worth Mentioning

• Versatility across disciplines: These shoes truly shine whether you’re crack climbing, edging on small holds, or smearing on slabs
• Break-in period: Minimal to none, making them comfortable for all-day wear much sooner than many comparable shoes
• Sensitivity-to-support ratio: Offers enough sensitivity to feel small holds while providing support for longer routes
• Velcro closure: Quick on/off capability makes them convenient for gym sessions and boulder problems
• Longevity: The combination of quality construction and resole-friendly design makes them an excellent long-term investment

Conclusion

The Scarpa Vapour V 2025 continues to be an exceptional all-round climbing shoe that you can confidently use on all rock types and across climbing styles. If you’ve used previous models, you’ll notice very little difference in these, but if you’re buying your first technical climbing shoe, these will be very hard to beat in terms of versatility and performance.

The Scarpa Vapour V is available in men’s sizes 38 to 50 (with half sizes to 47) and women’s sizes 35 to 45, each with their own distinct colour scheme (the LV).

The SRP is £155, available directly from Scarpa UK and specialist retailers.

Disclaimer – CGR reviewers are never paid to provide a review and the website does not take advertising or link to affiliate sales. We are a bunch of keen climbers and travellers that accept sample products and offer an honest and independent review of the item.