If you are a novice climber scavenging the market to buy the best rock climbing shoes, chances are there that you might end up choosing the wrong pair of shoes. To help you out make the best choice, we have curated this buying guide for you.
Which type of closure system for rock climbing shoes should you consider?
Lace-up
It is the most adaptable style. You should loosen the laces when your feet become hot or swollen after rigorous climbing on the off-routes. However, tightening the shoe's toe during a challenging pitch or climb and instep will eventually maximize performance.
Strap
These closures (alternatively referred to as "hook-and-loop") provide improved ease of on/off. They're ideal for bouldering and rock climbing, as you will be able to easily remove the shoes off while resting or walking on the off-routes.
Slip-on
Often referred to as slippers, slip-on shoes include an elastic closing system and provide the highest level of sensitivity and the lowest profile of any shoe. Slip-on is great for rock climbing training—without the conventional stiff sole and midsole, your feet will strengthen and accelerate. They feature a low profile due to the lack of straps or laces, which makes them ideal for fitting.
Which material of rock climbing shoes should you choose?
Leather or synthetic uppers are used on the majority of climbing shoes. Leather shoes (lined and unlined) are the easiest ones to care about, even when it comes to deodorizing. Numerous high-performance shoes are made of synthetic materials, and many vegetarians and vegans prefer them because they are cruelty-free.
Unlined leather
Shoes made entirely of unlined leather can expand up to a full size. They should fit snugly so that your toes will touch the base, pressing against the leather. Moreover, also consider that an all-leather shoe will bleed the color of the shoe onto your foot.
Lined leather
Lined leather uppers reduce stretch to half size or less. Occasionally, producers line only the toes to keep costs down and minimize stretch where it occurs most frequently.
Synthetic materials
While buying synthetic rock climbing shoes, you should bear in mind that these will not stretch much after wearing them frequently. Moreover, as it has a little give compared to other types of materials, never expect these shoes to change in fit significantly.
Perforated synthetic uppers offer somewhat more flexibility than the solid fabric. Certain materials breathe and wick away moisture from the feet as well.
How should you choose the outsole of rock climbing shoes?
Often referred to as the sole, it is the rubber portion that makes contact with the rock. Rubber type and thickness have an effect on climbing performance.
Rubber outsoles
Numerous varieties of rubber are utilized on the outsoles of rock shoes. While all climbing shoes give adequate grip, several rubber compounds provide more grip being softer and stickier than others.
In general, harder rubbers offer superior edging and stability for your foot, while stickier rubbers offer superior grip for smearing on slabs. However, stickier rubbers are less durable and so will not withstand abrasion as well.
Outsole thickness
The outsole thickness of a shoe can also affect its performance and feel.
Thicker soles range in thickness from approximately 4 to 5.5mm. They give excellent edging support and are quite robust. However, you will lose some of the sensitivity and feel for the rock that you would have with a thinner sole.
If you are a novice climber, we advise you to choose climbing shoes with thicker soles. It will last longer as your footwork technique improves, and it will also give support to your feet, keeping them from becoming uncomfortable and fatigued.
Thinner soles are typically between 3 and 4 mm thick. Once you've mastered your foot strategy, you may choose a shoe with a not-so-thick sole for increased contact with the rock.
Which factors regarding rock climbing shoes should you consider?
Lasting
The majority of contemporary rock shoes feature a slip-lasted construction. This implies that they are constructed around a foot-shaped mold, resulting in a more natural and ergonomic fit. Slip-lasted footwear is lighter and more sensitive than board-lasted footwear.
Manufacturers invest significant time and resources in developing the optimal last for each shoe, and many brands provide a variety of lasts ranging from flat, straight profiles to extremely downturned and asymmetric versions.
Straight profiles are the most comfortable option for easy climbs, whereas boulder difficulties and sport routes require more aggressive models.
Materials & elasticity
The material used to construct a climbing shoe is critical to its performance. Certain materials will stretch as you climb and push force through the shoes (especially on hot, sweaty feet). This is frequent with leather uppers, which have a tendency to expand by around a size.
While some shoes incorporate a lining within the leather to help keep the original fit. Even so, you may experience an overall softening effect that results in an apparent fit increase of half a size. To address this, some manufacturers use materials that do not stretch, such as Lorica. This material will not stretch at all, ensuring that the shoes retain their original fit for the duration of their life.
Rubber
Generally, it's a trade-off between durability and friction. Beginner's shoes often prioritize durability, ensuring that the rubber lasts for an extended period despite being scuffed frequently.
Certain beginner's models may even feature an additional rubber at the toe for added durability. These tougher compounds will often have greater edging strength and will hold their shape under pressure. While stickier rubber is excellent for smearing, it is more prone to wear and thinning at the toe.
How much do rock climbing shoes cost?
As rock climbing shoes are constructed of premium-quality material and handmade, they cost a bit more as compared to ordinary climbing shoes. You can expect to pay an amount of $80 to $200 for a durable and high-quality shoe pair.
We advise you to take time to scour all the options available before making the final decision, as rock climbing shoes are not something you would buy every week or so.
Best Rock Climbing Shoes FAQs
Q: Are climbing and bouldering shoes interchangeable?
A: There is a dizzying array of rock climbing shoes available, some of which are specifically made for bouldering. Each manufacturer claims to offer the greatest fit and the stickiest rubber. You may or may not use these shoes interchangeably, depending on the brand you are considering.
Q: Why are climbing shoes so exorbitantly priced?
A: Climbing shoes are extremely expensive for three reasons: they lack economies of scale, are handmade, and producers use proprietary materials of the highest quality.
Q: Why is rock climbing so costly?
A: The equipment needed for rock climbing cost more, making it a costly hobby. However, if you are a professional, you can get fundings from different sources.