14 best rock climbing shoes

Rock climbing shoes are specialized footwear designed for the sport of rock climbing. These shoes are an essential piece of equipment for climbers, providing the necessary grip, support, and sensitivity needed to scale rock faces. Here's what you should know about rock climbing shoes:

  1. Purpose: Rock climbing shoes are designed to enhance a climber's performance by providing superior traction on rock surfaces and a snug fit that allows for precise foot placement.

  2. Grip and Rubber Soles: The most crucial feature of climbing shoes is the rubber sole. Climbing shoe soles are made of sticky rubber that provides excellent friction against the rock. Different types of rubber compounds are used, with varying levels of stickiness for different climbing styles and conditions.

  3. Shape and Fit: Climbing shoes typically have a curved or downturned shape to help climbers use the edges of their shoes on small holds and rock features. They are meant to fit snugly to minimize dead space inside the shoe, ensuring better control and sensitivity.

  4. Closure Systems: Climbing shoes come with different closure systems, including lace-up, hook-and-loop straps (Velcro), and slip-on. The choice of closure system depends on the climber's preference and the type of climbing they do.

  5. Types of Climbing Shoes:

    • Neutral Shoes: These are all-around climbing shoes with a flatter profile and less aggressive downturn. They are comfortable for long climbs and ideal for beginners.
    • Moderate Shoes: These have a slight downturn and are suitable for climbers looking to progress beyond the beginner level. They offer a balance between comfort and performance.
    • Aggressive Shoes: These shoes have a pronounced downturn and are designed for advanced climbers tackling overhanging routes and small holds. They provide maximum power and precision but may be less comfortable for extended wear.
  6. Sizing: Climbing shoes are typically sized differently from regular shoes. They often use European sizing and are designed to fit snugly. Climbers often go for a size that is a bit smaller than their street shoe size to ensure a precise fit.

  7. Break-In Period: New climbing shoes may feel tight initially, but they tend to stretch and mold to the shape of the climber's foot with use.It's essential to consider the potential for stretching when selecting a size.

  8. Gender-Specific Shoes: Some climbing shoe models are designed specifically for women to accommodate the differences in foot shape and size between genders. These shoes offer a more tailored fit for female climbers.

  9. Terrain and Style: Climbing shoes vary in their suitability for different types of climbing, such as bouldering, sport climbing, trad climbing, or indoor climbing. The choice of shoe should align with the climber's preferred climbing style.

  10. Care and Maintenance: Climbing shoes should be stored in a cool, dry place and kept clean to maximize their lifespan. Resoling is an option when the rubber sole wears out.

In summary, rock climbing shoes are specialized footwear designed to enhance a climber's performance and safety on various rock surfaces. The choice of climbing shoe depends on the climber's skill level, climbing style, and personal preferences, and they play a crucial role in the overall climbing experience.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best rock climbing shoes on the market
  

Black Diamond Momentum Lace Climbing Shoe - Men's

Black Diamond

Based on 269 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Black Diamond steps into another realm of of the climbing world with their Momentum Lace Climbing Shoe. This shoe is all the quality you've come to expect from Black Diamond rolled up into a shoe. With its 4.3mm rubber that provides consistent grip and its breathable woven upper, the Momentum Shoe gives you exactly what you need to reach the peak. PRODUCT FEATURES:

  • lace-up closure
  • Neutral, flat last for vertical climbing and all-day comfort
  • Engineered Knit Technology upper provides exceptional breathability and comfort
  • 4.3mm NeoFriction rubber is built for durability and molded for optimal consistency and performance
  • Medium flex midsole adds support without sacrificing sesitivity
  • Lace entry for fit adjustability

User questions & answers

Question: How do these fit on long and narrow feet? Thanks
Answer: Men’s
Question: What size should I get if my shoe size is a
Answer: It’s very close. I think you’ll be ok if you do the same size. Hope that helps!
Question: Are these womens or mens
Answer: No im US 10 and this style fits me like 11
Question: is the sizing for these identical to the sizing for the velcro model
Answer: I don’t know exactly but those shoes are very very light !!!

La Sportiva Men's TarantuLace Performance Rock Climbing Shoe

La Sportiva

Based on 603 reviews Check latest price
  • FAST LACING SYSTEM - Quick-pull lacing harness allows for precise regulation of inner volumes; Wrapping the foot snugly for excellent support, fit, and comfort
  • ALL-AROUND PERFORMANCE - Designed to help intermediate climbers smear, hook, and edge like pros; The aggressive rubber heel rand, sticky FriXion RS rubber soles, and low-asymmetry RN45 build let climbers find purchase on edges with great sensitivity and without pain or cramping
  • CLIMB IN COMFORT - From the gym to the crags, the classic unlined leather upper is soft and comfortable; Lined tongue controls moisture and enhances breathability; Synthetic leather overlay adds just the right level of support
  • BUILT TO LAST - This indoor/outdoor climbing shoe is constructed from high quality materials; 1.8mm LaspoFlex at the midsole and 5mm FriXion RS at the sole make the TarantuLace as stable as it is durable
  • TIPS FOR BUYING - Rock climbing shoes are designed to fit differently than other footwear; Be sure to reference the La Sportiva size chart in the product images for more accurate sizing; The fit should be tight, but not painful, and without pressure points

User questions & answers

Question: I usually wear 45 EU size, and i see here people say the sizing is too high and other say its too small. So which size should I buy
Answer: La Sportiva shoes generally use the euro sizing chart and tend to run big. I would suggest going down a full size from other climbing shoes on the market. I normally wear 8 to 8.5 in other climbing shoes but La Sportiva I wear 7 to 7.5. You can always buy several pairs and return the ones that don't fit. I hope this info helps you with making a buying decision.
Question: Are these for pros
Answer: Hi There, Climbing shoes are designed to fit tight, almost like a second skin. If you are new to climbing, a comfortable fit is most important. I would recommend going a half size down from your street shoe. In all honesty, I would order a couple of different sizes and return the ones that do not fit. You are looking for a very snug fit that does not hurt your foot. Please be aware that these shoes will stretch around a half of a size over time, so remember to size accordingly. I hope this helps!
Question: Why does the size chart differ from other sources
Answer: Very well. They are a tough fit on wide feet.
Question: I wear size 8 u.s. should i get the same size in rock climbing shoes? or one size bigger? or half size smaller
Answer: I would go a size up from your normal size

Product features

The Peak of Comfort & Versatility

The TarantuLace is an unlined leather climbing shoe with asymmetric shape for advanced performance. The shape is great for upper end performance without hurting your toes. The synthetic leather lacing harness adds great support for entry to mid level climbers and the unlined leather is comfortable and soft. The aggressive rubber heel rand lets you stand in micro edges and the FriXion RS rubber is hard wearing yet sticky. This is great shoe for climbers that need a one-quiver shoe to do it all.

Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe 2019

Based on 427 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A great all around comfortable shoe that is precise enough for your next gym session. Features double stitch construction, padded collar and heel, polypropylene midsole and one-piece binding. Size up for a comfort fit and size down for a more aggressive performance fit but keep in mind that climbing shoes are supposed to fit very tight and at a minimum your toes should be touching the end of the shoe. Your toes will be curled a bit if you buy a size down for a more performance fit. The shoes come pre downsized! We recommend for new climbers to go up a FULL size from their street shoe size.

  • Please refer to the Sizing Chart for Recommended Size.
  • Padded Collar and Heel for Comfort.

User questions & answers

Question: My toes dont touch the tip of the toe area.. its short by 0.5 inches.. are they too big for me? should i downsize 0.5? from a 9.5 to
Answer: They are a pair of shoes.
Question: Can you walk in these shoes
Answer: No, they are leather on top
Question: do you get a pair of shoes or do I order
Answer: I normally wear a 44 EU (10 US) and I bought them that size. I wish I would have gotten a half size smaller (43 or 42 EU) because they do run a little big.
Question: Are these vegan
Answer: I wouldn't call them pro shoes, but they are great shoes in general. The rubber is not very hard and not very soft, and the shoe is not down-turned, so it's a great shoe for beginner or mid-level climbers to climb with a variety of styles.

La Sportiva Men's Miura Climbing Shoe

La Sportiva

Based on 54 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Miura has been one of the most popular climbing shoes for more than a decade, heralded for its versatility and reliability. With a performance fit and a highly asymmetrical shape, combined with a flatter last, this shoe is an excellent choice for technical climbing on terrain ranging from slabs to overhanging steeps.



A Vibram XS Edge sole provides unparalleled grip and support, allowing you to stick the tiniest of holds. The Miura also features La Sportiva's innovative Powerhinge system to control and minimize forward stretch, along with a Slingshot Rand to transfer power to the toes for enhanced edging control. Unlike most intermediate and expert level climbing shoes, the Miura's lace up design and Dentex-lined leather construction make it easy to achieve a precise, comfy fit.

  • 100% Synthetic
  • La Sportiva
  • Edge small crevices and pockets in 4 mm Vibram XS Grip rubber while a Powerhinge and dynamic slingshot heel band focus your energy at the toe box for superior sensitivity
  • Get an inside edge sweet spot with the offset, asymmetrical toe box that puts power at the big toe
  • While you get superior climbing ability, get enhanced comfort when you cinch up the 8-panel Dentex-lined leather uppers' speed lacing system
  • Your arches are supported by the light, thin, yet torsionally rigid fiber-laminate Laspoflex midsole

Climb X Crush Lace NLV - Purple - 2020 Women's Rock Climbing/Bouldering Shoe

Based on 33 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifically designed according to the features of female foot shape: higher instep, smaller shape, narrower width. It is suitable for female climbers and male climbers with narrower foot.

  • It possesses the high-quality features of all CLIMBX rock climbing shoe models. High performance, multi-purpose design, and great comfort.
  • Lace Design: Allows comprehensive adjustment to fit the foot shape perfectly; Able to adjust tightness and wraps around foot comfortably.
  • Upper: made with high-quality leather; offers great stretch and gas permeability.
  • Shoe Last is notably smooth, great for long-period wear.
  • Front upper side Edge Protection: Prevents both feet from rolling when pressure is released towards the front of the shoe. Increases precision, maximizes prevention from shoe distortion, and increases usage life span.

La Sportiva Tarantula Women's Climbing Shoe

La Sportiva

Based on 60 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This comfortable shoe is easy to use and easy to get on and off in a flash. The unlined upper is excellent for moisture management and super comfortable on your foot all day. The shape is round and higher volume for the climber not looking to mangle their feet yet aggressive enough to perform when needed. The highly adjustable closure system adapts to multiple foot types and shapes.

  • 100% Leather
  • RIGHT FOOT FORWARD - Designed for new climbers set on improvement, the Tarantula delivers comfort, convenience, and versatility; Sticky FriXion soles grip both rock and plastic with ease; Low asymmetrical build ushers climbers from the training wall to outdoor pitches
  • ADJUSTABLE CLOSURE - The Tarantula's adjustable hook-and-loop closure system is adaptable to varying foot shapes and widths; The easy-on, easy-off design means you'll spend more time climbing and less time gearing up
  • COMFORT AND PERFORMANCE - The unlined leather upper is breathable and keeps your feet dry all day; With its RL 45 last, the Tarantula's shape is just aggressive enough to learn how to edge, yet offers ample interior volume for a comfortable introduction to climbing
  • BUILT TO LAST - This indoor/outdoor climbing shoe is constructed from high quality materials; 1.8mm LaspoFlex at the midsole and 5mm FriXion RS at the sole make the Tarantula as stable as it is durable
  • TIPS FOR BUYING - Rock climbing shoes are designed to fit differently than other footwear; Reference the La Sportiva size chart in the product images for more accurate sizing; The fit should be tight for proper sensitivity; We recommend buying 0.5 - 1 US size smaller than your street shoes

User questions & answers

Question: What is the size equivalent for 6.5 in women’s shoes
Answer: Hi there! Here is the size chart for La Sportiva: https://www.sportiva.com/sizing-technology/
Question: I'm a new climber to indoor rock climbing. I'm a size 6 in women's shoes. What size should I get
Answer: Mine are super snug, but are not touching the end perfectly. You should be good. But too much slack is lost grip. I'd say mine are 1/2 inch or less.
Question: What size is
Answer: Yes. Ideally though you change into to other shoes when you aren’t rock climbing to preserve the shoe for the rock.

FRYE Men's Ryan Lug Midlace Fashion Sneaker

FRYE

Based on 43 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Hiker

  • 100% Textile
  • Imported
  • Lug Sole sole
  • Shaft measures approximately high-top from arch
  • Hiker
  • Lug sole

User questions & answers

Question: Have a question. Is it waterpoof
Answer: Mine were the leather. I normally wear a size 10, or sometimes 10 1/2, depending on the shoe or manufacturer. The ones I have are a size 10 and are roomy allowing thicker socks. A size 10 1/2 would probably be too large, confirming your suspicion. Mine , incidentally, were clearly labeled "Made in China." Possibly Venice or Milan China, but I doubt it.
Question: Is the forest color a sort of slightly greenish brown or are they distinctly very green? Is forest the new name for fatigue in the older style
Answer: These are not fur lined. Perhaps they are referring to the hide from which the leather is made?
Question: are these running big,guys ? because it is Italian brand and their sizes are bigger than usual
Answer: A U.S. size 6.5 is equal to a 37.5 euro size. Recommendation: "The fit should be tight for proper sensitivity; We recommend buying 0.5 - 1 US size smaller than your street shoes" If you follow that and order closer to a size 6, that would be a Euro Size 37
Question: The description says something about sheep fur. Are these fur lined
Answer: These are great beginner shoes! I’ve now been climbing 3 years and these are still my favorite shoes. I’m a size 4.5/ 5 and the 35 was perfect for me. They fit snug but that’s how they are supposed to be! Sportiva would recommend a 37 for you

Product features

Our Story

In 1863, John A. Frye opened the doors to his very first store, paving the way for countless generations of Frye artisans dedicated entirely to the art of craftsmanship.

The result is beautifully made footwear, bags and accessories with a long and illustrious history. Today that legacy continues with the introduction this fall of Frye’s first-ever apparel collection for men and women.

Rooted in tradition, Frye was originally inspired by our everyday American heroes over the decades. Cavalry infantrymen. World War II soldiers. Fighter pilots. Factory workers. Frye traveled the world on the feet of our servicemen — even General Patton. News of Frye’s outstanding quality and reputation spread. Frye has since become an American icon, outfitting many of the many big names from John Lennon to Jackie O. Chosen for its inimitable style and uncompromising quality, Frye is a longtime favorite of rock stars and celebrities alike.

Frye’s iconic boots have defined eras, embodied social movements, outlasted trends and defied time. Frye captures the essence of timeless American style – the promise of a dream.

That promise is held deep within the DNA of our very own genetic codes. Embedded within our legendary and historic styles remains a wellspring of the promise of adventure, courage and individual freedom. Against the backdrop of the great American landscape, Frye’s place in history is assured. There are many lookalikes but only one Frye. The Original. The Authentic. The Only.

Five Ten Women's Anasazi LV Climbing Shoe

Five Ten

Based on 68 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Five Ten, the Brand of the Brave, is a leader in performance, high-friction footwear. From downhill mountain bike racing to rock climbing, from wing suit flying to kayaking, Five Ten makes footwear for the world's most dangerous sports. The Redlands, California-based company has been producing cutting-edge designs and proprietary Stealth rubber soles for nearly 30 years. With the help of top national and international athletes and guides, combined with a world-class rubber-testing and R&D facility, Five Ten is the shoe brand of choice for the world's most exciting athletes.

  • 100% Synthetic
  • Made in US
  • Rubber sole
  • Upper Material: Cowdura
  • Closure: 2 hook-and-loop straps
  • Midsole: textile
  • Profile: low to moderate downturn
  • Asymmetrical Curvature: moderate

User questions & answers

Question: Are these Men’s or Women’s sizing
Answer: I purchased the black, and I really like them, but I can't tell you about the color of the forest. I agree with you that it is probably a military fatigue color. When my current pair wears out, I am trying out the forest color.

Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoe - Men's

Black Diamond Equipment

Product description

Designed to provide unparalleled comfort for all day cragging and gym sessions, the Momentum is a two-strap Velcro shoe that combines innovative technology with a classic, flat-last design to create an entry-level shoe that excels in performance. With an upper fabric that consists entirely of our Engineered Knit Technology, the Momentum provides stretch where you need it, support where it matters and all around exceptional breathability. We've also added a micro-fiber liner to the front of the shoe to minimize stretch and maximize comfort. The Momentum's durable, NeoFriction rubber is unique in that it's molded-inspired by the way we forge our carabiners-versus cut from one sheet of rubber. This is our engineered solution to optimize our shoe's rubber and rands for weight, consistency and comfort. Built for all-day comfort on moderate routes, boulders or gym sessions, the Momentum features a soft-flex midsole for sensitivity and is the perfect entry level climbing shoe.

  • Rubber
  • Black Diamond Equipment: Designing and constructing the world's best climbing, skiing & mountain gear since 1957

User questions & answers

Question: Looking to buy a shoe for my girlfriend and she wears a size 5 in kids for her converse. Would a size 6 or 6.5 climbing shoe fit her
Answer: Depends on homuch you are going to be wearing them if you are going to the gym or out in the open. And if you are an entry level climber or a more advanced climber
Question: Would these shoes be good to climb a 8 ft wooden wall for law enforcement qualifications
Answer: If that’s you’re street shoe. I’d say get these about a half size smaller cause they do stretch quite a bit once they are worn in. I wish I would of gone down a size cause I ended up progressing past the point of what these shoes could handle very quickly because they became so loose at my heel I lost confidence on foot holds.
Question: what is the life span of these climbing shoes
Answer: These are women's sizes and run small.
Question: im new to this sport, im imm a size 11 us in lets say adidas, what size should i go for in rockclimbing shoes
Answer: I have two pairs. One black, one forest. I don't know if they are technically waterproof, but mine have gotten wet and I just wipe them off and they are fine. The blacks are one of my favorite shoes of all time.

Evolv Skyhawk Climbing Shoe - Women's

Evolv

Based on 84 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Evolv's latest and greatest all-rounder. The Evolv Skyhawk is built on an updated last that fits all climbers from beginners to advanced.

  • Upper Material: synthetic
  • Lining: leather
  • Closure: lace
  • Midsole: medium
  • Rubber: Trax SAS rubber

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a size chart or measurements for the sizes so people can order correct size
Answer: Real leather. The company does have synthetic-soled options.
Question: Are these shoes blue and light pink ? It says white but it looked pink to me
Answer: My daughter wears a 7 W and she fits into a size 8 in these. Hope this helps.
Question: is this real leather or synthetic
Answer: These run a size small. My son is a 10, in men's shoes/sneakers, but wears an 11 in these.
Question: I normally wear a US womens size 7, what size should I order in these
Answer: You could probably climb the wall better but you wouldn’t want to do anything else in them. Climbing shoes are great for climbing but little else. I would recommend a climbing approach shoe that has sticky rubber but you can still walk around in.

Evolv Nighthawk Climbing Shoe - Men's

Evolv

Based on 73 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Evolv's latest and greatest all-rounder. The Evolv Nighthawk is built on an updated last that fits all climbers from beginners to advanced.

  • Upper Material: leather (overlays) synthetic
  • Lining: Agion anti-odor formula
  • Closure: lace
  • Midsole: MX-P (1.4mm, full-length)
  • Rubber: Trax SAS high-friction rubber (4.2mm)

User questions & answers

Question: Is the size much smaller than street shoes
Answer: Please check out the comments on the Amazon page about sizing from others who have purchased these shoes. Also, you can search the web for, "Evolv Shkyhawk fit," and find information about fitment. In our experience, people usually tend to choose a size up from their street shoe size.
Question: I wear a 42.5 EU, can you tell me what size I would order in this shoe
Answer: Hi there! The shoes are blue (the tongue and some other detailing), light pink (the bulk of the shoe), and white (detailing)

Climb X Crush Lace - Gray - 2020 Rock Climbing/Bouldering Shoe

Based on 33 reviews Check latest price
  • Rubber sole
  • Synthetic
  • X-Factor Sticky Rubber Sole; Padded Ankle Cuff
  • Rubber Wrapped Sticky Heel
  • Breathable Mesh Padded Tongue

User questions & answers

Question: Are these men’s or women’s sizes
Answer: Hello! a 42.5 EU is a 9.5 US size. Evolv shoes can run a half to a full size smaller than normal, this shoe in particular. Also, keep in mind these are leather.

Merrell Women's Vapor Glove 3 Trail Runner

Merrell

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Trail running shoe

  • 100% Fabric or Textile
  • Imported
  • Vibram sole
  • Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch
  • Vibram TC5+
  • TrailProtect pad offers underfoot protection

User questions & answers

Question: How well does this shoe drain water? Could they be used river crossing or kayaking
Answer: If you ordered your normal shoe size or a 1/2 inch bigger you shouldn't feel like your toes are swimming. The toe area won't be snug, you'll have room for your toes to move as if in a sock but you shouldn't be swimming in it.
Question: How does this fit compared to the vapor glove 2? i found the vapor glove 4 to be a tiny bit too snug
Answer: I bought these 1/2 size bigger than my normal size, I always do that with running shoes, and they fit me perfectly.
Question: How much room should there be for toes? The heel seems to fit sung but my toes seem to be swimming in room. Is that normal
Answer: Men’s sizes
Question: Do these run true to size
Answer: I had to go up a size and a half from street size, but I’m new to climbing. When I tried one size larger it still felt like my toes were curling too much.

La Sportiva Women's Climbing Shoes

La Sportiva

Based on 47 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Woman LA SPORTIVA Tarantulace Woman Turquoise 10QTU

  • FAST LACING SYSTEM - Quick-pull lacing harness allows for precise regulation of inner volumes; Wrapping the foot snugly for excellent support, fit, and comfort
  • ALL-AROUND PERFORMANCE - Designed to help intermediate climbers smear, hook, and edge like pros; The aggressive rubber heel rand, sticky FriXion RS rubber soles, and low-asymmetry RN45 build let climbers find purchase on edges with great sensitivity and without pain or cramping
  • CLIMB IN COMFORT - From the gym to the crags, the classic unlined leather upper is soft and comfortable; Lined tongue controls moisture and enhances breathability; Synthetic leather overlay adds just the right level of support
  • BUILT TO LAST - This indoor/outdoor climbing shoe is constructed from high quality materials; 1.8mm LaspoFlex at the midsole and 5mm FriXion RS at the sole make the TarantuLace as stable as it is durable
  • TIPS FOR BUYING - Rock climbing shoes are designed to fit differently than other footwear; Be sure to reference the La Sportiva size chart in the product images for more accurate sizing; The fit should be tight, but not painful, and without pressure points

User questions & answers

Question: hi, can you tell me wich size is 22,5cm
Answer: If you are just starting out, I recommend getting the same size as your street shoe size so you can walk around in them and it will feel more comfortable. I was recommended to get a size smaller or half size smaller from more experienced climbers because you want the shoes to be tight and your toes to curl up a bit at the end. They will also eventually stretch out to the form of your feet after breaking them in. Otherwise, I recommend you going to your nearest climbing gym or sports / outdoors store that sells climbing shoes and try them on. I have no doubt the staff would be great at giving advice in what shoe size to get for whatever shoe you plan to buy. Some gyms even let you climb in the shoes and let you test them out to see if you like them.
Question: I am a woman's size 9.5. What size should I get
Answer: I bought these for my girlfriend, but I have a pair as well. I have yet to get mine wet. Other reviews say they dry fairly easy-but Merrell makes a couple other shoes designed for water hiking. They would be more well suited than these for those type of activities.
Question: what size do I order for 7.5 shoe weaer
Answer: I have 3 pairs of these, two of which are the glove 3. I have found that you really need to tweak the shoes According to the activity you’re using them for in order to optimize the performance of the shoe, and to obtain the optimal support and comfort of your feet. Specifically, I’m talking about the shoelaces. These shoes are meant to be form fitting, and there are certain activities, like walking on flat surfaces like sidewalks, where your pace stays relatively consistent. I find it more comfortable and that I get the best support from the shoe in the situation named above if the laces are loosened just a little all the way around the shoe. On the other hand, if you’re using the shoes for a light trail run or hike, my advice would be to make sure the laces are uniformly snug and secure to offer your feet the ability to grip every aspect of the earth beneath it.

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