Best intermediate climbing shoes reddit You'll want your first pair to be snug, maybe a little uncomfortable, but not painful. They're not cheap though, and I would call them intermediate climber shoes. TLDR: I am looking for intermediate but comfortable climbing shoes for indoor climbing with slight/medium downturn and low/medium pre-tensioning. Would a no edge shoes be a disadvantage for me to improve footwork as an intermediate climber? Mostly looking for gym climbing, could go outside. My main interest for the shoe is sport climbing but I also want them to be decent for bouldering. And yes we are scared of falling. This amazing gym climbing shoe boasts a soft yet supportive split sole, a slight downturn, and a solid heel making it perfect for intermediate climbers looking to up their game from a beginner model without sacrificing much comfort. Black Diamond Climbing Shoes. 5, vapors 39) and they are nice and snug. I'm in search of a second shoe, from a very begginer style Garra Kamae. Started climbing about 4 months ago and bought some used Evolv Kira’s (second picture) Looking into Scarpa Force Vs (first picture). You could also use it as an opportunity to try an intermediate shoe but I would suggest not going for any shoe with thin or soft rubber as you will likely go through it very quickly. In the Top Pick series, our testing team offers their thoughts on the best climbing shoe for every occasion. From my experience, as long as you're not getting BUFOs, you're fine. The rubber isn’t that sticky but it’s thick and last really well. Butora Endeavors are an excellent all-around budget shoe for the intermediate climber. When a company designs a new suite of shoes, they send pairs to us and our testers, and we climb in them, compare notes, write a review, and then, later, do a roundup of the latest and greatest releases of the year. Go to a shop with a large range. Solution comp is the best all rounded bouldering shoes in my mind, while the theory is excellent for slab smearing. Many climbing gyms have their own shoe shop. Backcountry is having a sale on tons of shoes so I wanna snag some now, preferably velcro. What shoes are best for v3 area / where I seem to currently be? Been climbing for almost a year on some LA sportiva taractulaces and I love them, but hate the laces. Or check it out in the app stores Mar 7, 2025 · Best climbing shoes for beginners Given their steep price and asymmetrical design, these shoes are best-suited for intermediate to advanced climbers. My shoes get sprayed with lysol between uses, and they get to dry between being worn. Shoes in general, but especially climbing shoes, even model to model in the same company, vary wildly. For what brands they stock Boulder Planet Sembawang/Boruda: Tenaya and Evolv Climbers Corner: Mad Rock and La Sportiva T-Hall: Scarpa, might also stock I am an beg/intermediate-ish indoor boulderer, solidly v5 at the gym I go to. Finally, climbing shoes simply don't last so it could be a bit of a waste to get an expensive pair now. So I have been climbing for a few months in rental shoes, and looking to get a proper pair. Nov 9, 2011 · This is an impossible question to answer. I can climb about V2-V3s and a few V4s but it is tough to progress with the rentals. 10 guide tennies , or any other "approach shoe" are the gold standard of Yosemite footware. I got half a size above my normal shoe size (normal 38. I have been climbing for a little less than 5 years, with a complete cold turkey freeze during the pandemic for about 2 years. As everyone has said, try on a bun CJ of different shoes, and see what is best for you. Your best bet is to try on as many shoes as possible, and to know that half a size difference may make a shoe feel good versus super painful. They’re based on the Katanas, which I’ve worn for ages. You could go ahead and get a nicer shoe, but if you don't know exactly what you're doing they'll be the wrong size and it'll be a hassle. Climbing shoe companies come to these events and let you try on pairs of shoes for usually up to a day to get a feel for them. Personally - I’d get the best shoes you can afford to maintain. 11 in almost any shoe laceup, velcro, slip on, rubber all hardly matter. You can climb hard in any of these shoes. Most important is that they fit you well. V3-4 boulder, 6A+ lead. Lastly, try on the shoe before buying it or buy it from an online retailer with free returns. Apr 16, 2025 · What to look for in sport climbing shoes; Ten things you need to know about climbing shoes; Our favorites; Honorable mentions; Most gear roundups cover new releases. I have a friend who climbs hard 5. I have super narrow feet as well and I love these. So it's best to search for each manufacturer separately. 13s who wears them. But to get you started, here are a few good semi-aggressive intermediate shoes to try on: Scarpa Veloce or Vapor V, La Sportivas Skwama or Otaki, Tenaya Oasi. Shoes have gotten much softer since most shoes today are purchased by novice to intermediate climbers who mostly climb in gyms and do bouldering. But better shoes will teach you way more about how to use your feet. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, the right pair of climbing shoes is essential. Also surprisingly durable for a high performance shoe, lasted 8 months before I resoled them could have probably pushed it another month or 2. (Only slightly more aggresive, no La Sportiva solutions or anything like that please). I mentioned four good shoe options for OP -- Dragon, Arrowhead, Testarossa, and Team -- and made the point that fit and precision are more important for climbing hard than getting an aggressive shoe. Anyway, I decided to write this guide (primarily aimed at beginner/intermediate climbers) because I wanted to help others in selecting shoes, especially those with the same foot profile as me (it has been a struggle to find shoes that fit perfectly)! Apr 16, 2025 · We evaluate each shoe based on important climbing techniques – like how well they smear on slabs, edge on small holds, pull into features, and jam into cracks – and draw on the experience of multiple climbers to help you find the perfect fit. S. Best Outdoor All-Rounder: Scarpa Arpia V ($169) Best Sport/Mixed Shoe: Unparallel Qubit ($186) Best Bouldering Shoe: Scarpa Drago XT ($229) Best for Beginners: Butora Rubicon ($150) Best Shoe for Steep Routes: La Sportiva Mandala ($209) Best Training Shoe: Scarpa Veloce L ($175) Best Pure Slipper: La Sportiva I read a bunch of reviews online and ordered shoes Id never worn before, same company, same size as the ones I would rent. The best shoe is the one that fits. It's a preference, comfort, and pairing with you as a climber. They hurt my feet less than any climbing shoe ive tried. Posted by u/NancyBotwinAndCeliaH - 2 votes and no comments 5. As for shoes, I know these rarely get any love but I absolutely love my Otakis. In the 80's people were in tennis shoes climbing harder than most of us ever will using anything. Edit: Talked to a dude at the gym, tried on several different pairs of shoes before finally getting a pair of 5. And a well fitting pair of cheap shoes is going to climb much better than a pair of ill-fitting mocs or muiras or solutions. Mar 25, 2025 · #5 La Sportiva Miura VS Women’s Climbing Shoes – Best Aggressive Bouldering Shoes for Women #6 La Sportiva Katana Lace Climbing Shoes – Best Climbing Shoes for Men #7 La Sportiva Tarantulace Climbing Shoes – Best Cheap Bouldering Shoes for Men #8 Scarpa Instinct VS Climbing Shoes – Best Women’s Climbing Shoes The first day I went climbing, I fell in love with it, got my gym pass and ran to REI to get my own shoes. The home of Climbing on reddit. I primarily climb top rope and sport and have no real interest in bouldering and am around the 12- range for top rope and 11- for sport (atleast according to my gyms ratings My feet don't suit La Sportiva shoes and I was blinded by following reviews too closely, convinced I should spend my money on the 'best' beginner shoe. eu has some classification, but it's not quite complete or super accurate. And, like any shoe for hiking, your toes shouldn't touch the front of the shoe when you're on a downslope nor should your heel lift more than 1/4" as you walk on the level. It’s a supportive shoe, thanks to its full-length midsole and outsole, and should be attractive to heavier climbers who need stiff, supportive shoes while standing on small edges. AFAIK the italian brands are rather expensive in the states. I first wore through the toe of a pair of Tenaya Oasi, and after this I was hyper-aware of the “toe drag” that actually turned out not to be responsible for the failure. I guess that in the end it's just a question of which shoe you feel most comfortable with. Currently climbing 5. Recently i've been starting to look for new shoes and my climbing gym sells the Solution. Did you know that r/climbing has a complete wiki on climbing shoes? Check it out here. Preferably the same shoe size would be good. I started in the Evolv Kiras (basically a flat shoe) but recently upgraded to Evolv Shakra in search of a more aggressive shoe that would be better on small footholds and the overhanging climbs that I love best. I personally love them and bought a second pair. La Sportiva Kubos stretch a little but not by much so first few sessions they won't be super comfy. Hurt a bit while breaking them in but nothing too bad. I wouldn't say there isn't an aspect that doesn't suit me, rather I'm wondering what model from them would be the next step up in terms of a more downturned/agressive shoe or one with a little better edging performance. The fits are very specific and many of the non- predominantly leather shoes don't stretch and confirm to your feet like their leather counterparts. I want to try something without laces because I’ve noticed once I put my current shoes on (with laces) they’re stuck on for the day and if I ever take them off they definitely aren’t going back on. 1. As a beginner really aggressive shoes could make climbing quite painful. Some things to keep in mind are in the following paragraph. My local climbing store only seems to stock a lot of butora and scarpa. . Any recommendation? Posted by u/Kaskade_420 - 25 votes and 18 comments Completely fine. This also gives you time to learn what type of climbing you like and what style of shoes are best suited to that style of climb as well as your own preferences. The best suggestion for buying climbing shoes is to actually try the shoes first . I feel like beginner shoes and most intermediates are pretty similar and not worth it. Dunno the quality now but still think they were my best intermediate shoe ever. The most common advice new climbers get is to buy beginner shoes until they improve their footwork. They are also quite comfortable and of course cheap! I use them as a gym shoe and Miura as my outdoor shoe. Shoes are built from a last, which is going to dictate the fit and shape of the shoe. Definitely don’t go for a downturned intermediate-advanced shoe right away. It does provide you flexibility and increase sensitivity that allows you to step on small edges. My fiance was happy with her pair for about two years. Softer shoes do wear quicker, but as others have said it is a game changer. 6 oz. Feb 2, 2024 · The classic intermediate climbing shoe, the Miura boasts the pedigree of a reputable climbing manufacturer as well as being the top pick for intermediate climbing shoes for the last decade. Go and try on as many different shoes as you can. This to me is the most important thing as a badly fitting shoe isn't going to make you want to climb! Kubos are super versatile, and designed exactly for intermediate bouldering and sport climbing. The rubber could also be firm or soft. A lot of people seem to like tarantulace as a starter shoe so maybe check those out. 5, and my current lineup consists of the Tenaya Ra in 12. e. Tarantulas will keep you climbing. I exclusively buy my shoes online because they're so much cheaper, and my local stores don't stock aggressive shoes in smaller sizes. Try to climb with quiet, precise feet. The definition of the word intermediate also changes depending on the climbing gym. Ever. They were better for dialed in fit and projecting on slabby and flatter-non overhanging terrain. They arnt typical hiking boots, but for the high sierra and Yosemite Valley the climbing rubber cant be beat. Nov 17, 2023 · Here, we’ve compiled ten of our favorite bouldering shoes—and a list of ten things to think about when buying climbing shoes. You need to get something that fits and will work for you, and the only way to do that is to abandon preconceptions and try a load of shoes on in a load of different sizes. 15/16 level and most climbers like OP are at the 5. I have only ever owned 2 pairs of shoes. That's all they need. If you’re perceptive, you might have picked up on the commonalities between these shoes. -However indoor oriented shoes generally have straps instead of laces. A good beginner transitioning to intermediate shoe, the Anasazi VCS offers a perfect blend of stiffness and sensitivity allowing you attempt those harder grades while still being able to feel the rock under your feet. Posted by u/Secure_Ad_6322 - 16 votes and 56 comments But honestly, for 90% of climbing, the best shoe is the one you like. Many people don't know how to wash shoes, or store them. May 10, 2021 · Men’s climbing shoes are wider and higher volume than women’s shoes with a larger toe box, so if a women’s pair is too snug, the men’s version will probably fit you fine. Nov 11, 2023 · The five shoes I will share with you on this page are some of the best climbing shoes for intermediate climbers available in 2023, all of which are suited to a variety of foot shapes and climbing styles. She's been climbing for a couple months now and wants something slightly more aggressive then her basic gym shoes. 11 level. Completely different fit. EDIT: Should also mention: Decathlon/Simond shoes are quite popular where I live. I have a size 14 street shoe and my feet are narrow / low volume. A few weeks later I was near an REI, tried on a pair of Muira VS' and after trying on a few different sizes bought those shoes. But Mad Rock, Scarpa, Evolv and Red Chili are more than adequate for your needs. Other question, similar options to the Miura lace but with velcro? The other two are intermediate, the satoris are aggressive, but the best shoes I have ever owned. Fitting your climbing shoes for comfort is like buying a car because you like the driver’s seat. Also, the Mythos are not a super stiff shoe and climbing inside only, your shoes will last longer. ), and try on all the shoes they have in that style until something fits well. But the less experienced feet will suffer more. Looking for input from those who have similar foot type and have tried either shoe, or suggestions for other shoes to try. Seconding these as a beginner/intermediate. Maybe Evolv or UnParallel. 5 (I could’ve done a 43). And yes, the last move, the Solutions made that last move a breeze. Test them for that at the store (a good outdoors store like REI will have a ramp in the shoe section to test the fit on). You need to try the shoes on or know what type of feet the manufacturer makes shoes for. 12s. Sep 16, 2024 · La Sportiva Tarantulace. I have flat and rather narrow low-volume feet. While it was designed for overhanging sport routes, bouldering, gym climbing, and technical face climbing depending on how they are sized they are equally They get this reputation of being the pinnacle of climbing shoe performance but pretty much every gym foothold is more positive than the feet you’ll find on an outdoor 5. The wide toe box—another major source of the shoe’s comfort— is good for those of us with wide feet, though a low-volume model is also available. A good climber can send a stout 5. They are good for everything except really steep overhung stuff. I have 4 pairs of shoes now and that's the least amount I've ever owned. I climb mostly indoor but several times a summer will climb outdoor as well. Not all. —the Tarantulace is a comfort-first shoe with an unlined leather upper, a mildly asymmetric shape, a stiff last, and a relatively roomy toe-box. I know evolvs fit my feet so I stick with their phantoms for downturned aggressive shoes and their Kronos when I need a softer shoe. Shoes were terrible. If your shoes make you hate climbing then they are bad shoes. The heel fit me loads better compared to the Stay, and the whole shoe honestly reminds me a bit of a softer Solution Comp, which is my current favourite. By the end of a day, my feet are dead. I’ve been using the LS Tarantulaces in a 43. With a single velcro strap and slipper-like comfort, it’s incredibly sensitive but offers surprising edging ability thanks to La Sportiva’s P3 tensioned rand system and No-Edge sole technology. Unpopular opinion, if you are still learning techniques and climbing lower grades, get a cheaper pair (La sportiva Finale, or something) to climb on V2s and practice V5s and wear your solution comp when you are ready to send it. My street shoe size is a US men's 12. In Bosnia, the selection of these shoes is limited and overpriced, so my only option is online stores like banana fingers and epictv( bergfreund doesn't ship here for some reason). Hi there redditgod1998. I'm looking to buy a good pair of climbing shoes for beginners! Here's all the information that may (or may not) be helpful: I've been climbing for 4 weeks and am climbing 5. Mar 9, 2023 · The La Sportiva Kubo may not be the most aggressive shoe on this list, but it’s certainly one of the most comfortable. I want a shoe to help me build more foot strength and technique; softer shoes seem like a good idea? Are the Veloce going to be a step back and hinder my climbing? Currently on-sighting 5. The local climbing FB groups (and FB marketplace in general) work great for this kind of swap. Hi guys. 10 and LaSportiva reign supreme. I had Katana men’s lace for the same use as the Anasazis. I'm a 170lb guy, been bouldering and sport climbing indoors for a over a year now, grade wise I'm pretty intermediate (V5/V6, 5. I spend most of my time sport climbing indoor, maybe around a 70/30 split of the time, where I engage in bouldering more often than top/lead climbing. More info provided below :) My suggestions (in order of preference): Scarpa Instinct VS, La Sportiva Solution, Butora Acro, Evolv Shaman, Five Ten Hiangle. May 4, 2021 · The Scarpa Vapor V women’s climbing shoe is not just one of the best women’s gym climbing shoes but perhaps one of the best climbing shoes period. You might also want to check out other brands. Climbing shoes have very specific fit so finding a good fit takes time. I’ve had a handful of different shoes and these are hands down the best shoes I’ve owned. Could be the placebo effect or maybe I’m getting a bit stronger, but I never question these shoes and am always able to rely on my toes and rubber. Best of Reddit; Topics; Best beginner/ intermediate climbing shoe for gym? Nov 30, 2022 · The La Sportiva Theory is a purpose-made climbing shoe for hard indoor bouldering and competition climbing. Jan 8, 2021 · 21 of the LATEST new and updated best climbing shoes Jan 2021. I'm rather light at 55kg. Search for 'scarpa climbing shoe chart' for example, they do have complete info, so do Ocun and Red Chili. When people talk this shoe is > than that for X its almost entirely preference. Also for reference, I mostly boulder with some occasional top rope sessions, and I’m at a beginner/ intermediate level (v3/v4). I bought the La Sportiva Tarantulace. I’d note that shoes are very rarely the limiting factor for a climber. Why? Because I washed them, properly. The velcro system Nov 14, 2024 · An entry-level shoe seen on beginners and intermediate climbers alike, the La Sportiva Finale ($130) is not only an amazing bang for your buck but an extremely well-made shoe for all-day climbing My personal favorite shoe for beginner to intermediate are the La Sportiva Tarantulaces. I've had my evolv phantoms 3 months into climbing and I for sure will never climb Daniel's v17. 10 Asym's. 11s, working 5. Feb 19, 2021 · Intermediate shoes therefore tend to be made with thinner rubber. I started climbing about a month ago, enjoyed it instantly and am now looking to buy my first pair of shoes, mainly looking for an all-rounder as I still need to learn a lot of technique. They are on the flat side, but they edge and smear extremely well and don't hold me back on 11s. $219 at Amazon $219 at REI Apr 15, 2024 · Evolv caters to mid-level rock jocks with its V6 rock shoe, straddling the vast ability levels between beginner and advanced. I have worn Mythos and can tell you that you will notice an absolute difference once you buy a more technical aggressive shoe. something like this The Vertica shoes in 41 were a snug fit. 11d/5. 10 anasazis, but these just don't fit my feet. If you need inspiration for your next pair of shoes, this is where to find it! Scarpa Vapors killed my big toes the second I tried them on. Just burned through a pair of night Hawk evolves and im looking for a more intermediate shoe. I would definitely try to find 5 or 10 different shoes and see what fits if you can. I only do the indoor bouldering. I was previously recommended by friends to perhaps invest in a more intermediate climbing shoe as my bouldering problems often involve some overhang. Naturally started at v2's and I can do some v3's. Less performance oriented shoes typically don’t have the aggressive shapes and materials which extend break in times. 10 so 1) they’re overtuned (like buying a F1 race car for your daily driver) 2) they’re not really soft shoes like you’re looking for and 3) “best” is relative on Dec 29, 2022 · Check out GearJunkie’s guide to the best climbing shoes. Part of the problem is many companies don't publish it. Look I have a bucket of climbing shoes too. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Yes aggressive shoes perform better on overhung and a stiff toe is better for tiny footholds while soft rubber is better on volumes but you can climb anything in anything. Also kinda asking people here for advice, because I'm not sure what I need at this point in my climbing journey honestly. Between the climbing shoes, 5. Sizing is very important for climbing shoes. If you like a slightly softer/more sensitive (but by no means soft) shoe and have no problems with getting used to climbing in a no-edge shoe, the Genius is something you can hardly go wrong with. Now I m looking for flat shoes suitable for indoor and outdoor climbing, sport or alpine climbing. The shoe has attributes that can carry a rock climber moving beyond Only you can decide what’s best for you and your climbing. (1) Comfy (2) Good for climbing easy stuff (3) Good for climbing hard stuff (4) Not too aggressive but not too flat (shoe’s curve) (5) You never need another shoe Reply reply throwaway70357 Skwama is a very soft shoe. I just bought my second pair, so happy with them. I’m looking for a beginner / intermediate shoe that will help me more than my current ones for bouldering and occasional top roping. The ideal pair will offer the fit and performance that match your climbing style so you can tackle the wall more confidently. I don't want to purchase online as I want to nail the size perfectly. Honestly paying more will not give you better shoes "for you". Personally, I believe that shoes should be tight but not painful (no hot spots) – even during the break in period. I think it comes down to the individual problem, and having both a soft shoe and a stiff shoe is a good idea. Also consider what you typically climb. I bought the cheapest ones just in case I wasn’t going to stick it. La Sportiva Solutions are my go to bouldering shoes along with Scarpa Instinct both men’s version. Idk why people downvoted this comment, starting with the sensitive good shoes for bouldering is the only way to get used to sensitive shoes for bouldering, you can get in tarantulas or some other stiff shoes with no downturn and when you feel like you can climb better but your feet aren't helping you as much and you go for performance shoes you're almost back to 0 because you climb different Apr 24, 2025 · Best Climbing Shoes at a Glance. Pretty much the only shoe that fit semi-comfortably, due to my wide, flat Hobbit-esque feet. My Katakis stretched a 1/2 size at least. the scarpa vapor v is a fantastic shoe for intermediate climbing! if you wanted to go the la sportiva route you could try the kubos, i’ve never worn either of them but i have friends who have and loved the shoes— if you’re looking for more aggressive shoes and you’re primarily gym climbing la sportiva has the theories which are an The solution is still my favorite sport climbing shoe that I have tried, precise and makes me feel confident on even the smallest feet. Top picks for beginners, intermediate, bouldering and under $100 plus COMPLETE buyer's guide! Scan this QR code to download the app now. Toes feel great, heel stays on! We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. I am about 60% top roping 40% bouldering. Climbing shoes aren't going to be comfortable, but they need to not be painful. Try on lots of shoes and get an experienced climber help fit them. How to Choose the Best Intermediate Climbing Shoe for You. Read on for our 2025 picks from La Sportiva, Scarpa, and more! The SCARPA Arpia V is a great shoe for intermediate climbers or climbers who I'm thinking of this one intermediate boulder problem (V4) that I was trying with my Theories, and after giving it 4 or 5 tries, I knew the final move would be easier with the Solutions, so I switched shoes. I had some Ocun shoes which was 65€ and then i went for some shoe that was ~100 and afterwards upgraded to the VSR, which I love. I used to sell climbing shoes and often people look for “beginner” or “intermediate” shoes. 11 routes. Crypto A subreddit dedicated to discussing and reviewing climbing shoes. I am climbing pretty consistently V4 on the slab and V3 (super close on a lot of V4) on the over If you have a tiny footholds, it could be problematic. Was climbing for probably 5 months up to like V4 indoors in the absolute cheapest lace ups I found at REI that were way too big before I got "Intermediate" shoes (Butora endeavor) Had those threw about the 1 year mark and sent my first indoor V7 in them but I definitely started to feel limited on certain types of footwork in them. If you want to wear your shoes for hours or climb a lot of slab, no need to get something with a more aggressive So I've been climbing in Skwamas for a bit now, and while I love them for bouldering, they're not the best-equipped for edgy vert, or slab, or all-day hangs. I plan on ordering a bunch of shoes and then trying them on at home to figure out what fits me. Bergfreunde. More info provided below :) Hey guys, I am currently looking to update my La Sportiva Mythos (been climbing through three pairs in the past few years). The type of shoe you want is more based on style of climbing and personal preferences. I used my friends random shoes that were a bit to big at the start but as I improved I wanted to get my own shoes and after a lot of research decided for the Skwamas size 40 (my natural size is about 42,5). When you’re just starting out you won’t know enough to be able to take advantage of the features which make these shoes more expensive. They should ask questions about your experience and interests in climbing to determine what kind of climbing shoe you want. Obviously, gym shoes compared to a proper pair of climbing shoes is a real step up but then after that it’s not like one shoe will suddenly give you a few grades advantage. Hard for strangers on the internet to advise you on shoe fit, as “wide” could mean any number of different shapes and toe lengths. The best intermediate climbing shoe has thin rubber that is also durable. I have read various posts already and have found that most people say to buy the shoes that fit you the best. When you can do this reliably, even when working really hard then it will be time to buy a better/more expensive shoe. Get a shoe with firm rubber if you climb a lot of routes with thin edges and small chips for feet. Based on some research the Scarpa Instinct VS/VSR, Scarpa Veloce, Scarpa Vapor (V), La Sportiva Kubo, and La Sportiva Katana look like some good options. My normal shoe size is 13 in US sizes and I got a size 13 pair of Defys. Their cheaper shoes are used by quite a few beginner/intermediate climbers and so far I have not heard bad opinios on them. I ended up getting some Shamans as soon as I could justify spending another few hundred dollars in climbing shoes and they were a world better for me. Jan 11, 2022 · Remember, sometimes the best shoe for you is simply the one that best fits your foot rather than one supposedly designed for a particular climber or style of climbing. It's also a little tricky to get into like the Catch, but immediately comfortable once they were on, which I never expect from brand new, aggressive, downsized shoes. Don’t be afraid to try on the more aggressive shoes because if you have a foot shape that matches the model it might feel surprisingly comfortable. As his feet grew out of them, the shoes were entered in the big eternal vortex of used kids’ climbing shoes, and we fished out bigger ones without a major price difference. No use having a great shoe that doesn't fit you well. Aim to spend $130 or less on your first pair, and steer clear of Climb X (And in smaller part, Black Diamond and Simond, whose beginner shoes trade function and durability for aesthetics) for shoe brands. Sep 30, 2024 · Rubber Type: 5 mm Vibram XS Edge Lining: Unlined Upper Material: Leather/Microfiber Closure: Lace-up Can be Resoled: Yes Type: Neutral Sizing: Runs slightly small What we liked: comfortable enough for beginners but aggressive enough for intermediate climbers, a shoe that sticks with you as you become a more skilled climber, dialed in fit, grippy sole, value for the price Nov 12, 2024 · The stiffness makes it especially nice for heavier climbers for whom soft intermediate shoes like the Veloce and Veloce L aren’t supportive enough. Oct 1, 2020 · BEST FOR: SLAB SPORT CLIMBING. Also there is a whole subreddit devoted to climbing shoeswhich one you ask? Why, its r/climbingshoes, if you can believe it. I use the Mundaka now since I wanted a softer shoe for smearing on volumes and it's an "aggressive" shoe visually but you wouldn't know it. While I'm at it, I'll also recommend checking out the Moccasym (caveat: bad at gym heel/toe hooks) and Solution (great all around sport/bouldering I’m a fairly new climber that mainly boulders V3-5. For me, comfort is king. Other stores generally stock shoes >100, with a focus on popular/competitive brands. Next time pay attention what kind of shoes people use on those routes in your climbing gym. Typically they come with the whole range of sizes and models so it's a good free way to try out new shoes for a climbing session without any commitment. As a bit of a preliminary I am relatively skinny and don't find supporting my weight difficult. Hey there folks, I'm on the hunt for a new pair of indoor bouldering shoes, and I'm in need of some advice. Currently climbing at a v2/v3 level! Nov 15, 2024 · Designed for intermediate climbers, the Arpia V is both moderately downturned and asymmetrical, and gets especially high marks in both comfort and edging performance. Finally, if you're buying shoes in London I suggest going to rock on at Mile end climbing wall as they have the largest range and great advice, it's important you I am looking for my first “intermediate” shoe. If the shoe fits wear it. GameStop Moderna Pfizer Johnson & Johnson AstraZeneca Walgreens Best Buy Novavax SpaceX Tesla. I. 12a) so I don't require anything too crazy. I am an intermediate climber, usually working V5-V7 problems at my home gym, just a couple V8's under my belt that really fit my style (and to be honest we're probably soft). They all have different fits (width, heels, volume, etc) that means a shoe that fits one person might not be the best fit for another. You may also want to eventually explore things like - if you prefer a stiff or soft shoe, and what brands fit your feet the best. I know they’re a beginner shoe. Our Selection of the Best Climbing Shoes for 2025 Comparison Table Mar 10, 2025 · The best climbing shoes just keep getting better. Jan 9, 2025 · SHOES DOWNTURN CLOSURE UPPER WEIGHT (PAIR) La Sportiva Katana Lace: Aggressive: Lace-up: Leather/Microfiber: 1 lb. I just read of a lot of reviews and go from there - backcountry is great for this, lots of people saying what street size shoe they wear compared to the size they wear in the climbing shoe. 5. 4M subscribers in the climbing community. I would also suggest adding another 20 dollars and get shoes that would last longer and would provide better support. I bought mine at street size and they actually ran a little big but they were comfortable and lasted for about 7 months of 2-3 days a week in the gym as a beginner. They are comfortable, cheap and touch as anything. La Sportiva Tarantulace: Flat: Lace-up So I got into climbing about 5months ago and got suppppper obsessed. Honestly, i feel like intermediate shoes are not worth it. I want to buy my first pair of climbing shoes and am looking for recommendations. Black Diamond is a relative newcomer to the rock shoe market, having launched the flat-lasted, beginner I used to have a duffel bag of demo shoes full of old Defys and Elektras with 100 demo days on them and they didn't smell at all, ever. I've always been of the opinion that softer performance-oriented shoes are better for strengthening the feet and learning good footwork. I wouldn't advise buying online, you're best to actually go to a climbing gym that sells shoes and try them on before committing imo But indoor shoes don’t. I've finally outgrown my first pair of climbing shoes, which were just some cheap beginner shoes and am looking for an upgrade. The wide toe box saved my interest in the hobby. There are different shaped toe boxes, and heel cup sizes, so you really want to try a wide variety. The cheapest shoe on this list—and, consequently, one of the best-selling climbing shoes in the U. I'd just go into your nearest REI/store with climbing shoes, try on a bunch, and buy one that fits perfectly (online or in store). Then you'll have big climbers who like soft shoes and light climbers who like a stiff shoe. Intermediate climbing shoes Hello, i started climbing about 1 1/2 years ago and have been using my scarpa velocity shoes since then, and they’re really starting to show the wear. Check in over there, they will certainly appreciate your post. Soft shoes require you to use your toes a lot. I have tried on a pair of Scarpa Velocity (the newer version) in my local gym, and it fits quite well. This shoe has it all – precision, versititly, wide appeal and a winning marriage of comfortable fit with steep climbing performance. The simple matter is that climbing shoe technology is at the 5. My girlfriend is looking to get a new pair of climbing shoes and would love some help/recommendations. Your best bet isn't to research the best "intermediate" shoe for you, it's to go to a gym or shop with lots of shoes, tell the worker what you are looking to do(gym bouldering, vertical granite, overhung sandstone sport, etc. But they perform a lot better than the marketing would suggest. Any shoe above 50 euros will be an improvement. There is no beginner shoe. Seconding Tenaya! The Ra LV shoe is a bit more snug in the heel than the regular Ra, and is one of the comfiest shoes I've ever tried while still being intermediate. There's nothing wrong with using more intermediate shoes as a beginner. I prefer top-rope over bouldering and currently am not planning to ever climb outdoors. You’ll notice all of those are velcro closure. for example, most of the climbing world rave about 5. The problem is that there are no stores… I am new to climbing, have gone about 5 times, but just started a membership to go more often. Not an advertisement for those shoes. Was pretty close to quitting with other shoes. Very comfortable and I’m climbing harder grades in them. Heavy intermediate climber seeking shoe purchase advice I am at the point where I need to upgrade shoes after blowing out the toe on my turantulaces. Comfort is not king. You can Google what brands you like, or watch reviews and then try them out at the store that stocks them. Over the past decade, our team has tested over 45 of the best climbing shoes for women. Apr 22, 2025 · The Best Climbing Shoes for Women. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types. I'd really like a more performance oriented shoe that isn't terribly uncomfortable and is fairly durable. I'm looking for a basic, all-around workhorse shoe that leaves everything up to my footwork to get by on anything I throw at it (except for overhang). I've been bouldering on my La Sportiva tarantulas a while now (on and off for 3 years and the past year regularly), and they are starting to wear down (actual holes in the shoes). 9-5. Just wondering what the best shoes to get are. I rock the same size as my steet shoes in the narrow model and would definitely not want to go Business, Economics, and Finance. After that they're actually not too bad. 8s. Shoes with synthetic uppers won't stretch very much, while leather uppers will. Avoid the typical, "This shoe can take a bullet," gym shoes, and get a decent pair, and its fine. 5 and the Scarpa Vapor V in 11. Great shoes. I’m now thinking about switching up another gear of what comes to shoes and I would really appreciate your input. I had scarpa helixes I returned. Each brand has a different size chart. Section divider Ten Things You Need to Know About Climbing Shoes 1. Oct 28, 2022 · I’m looking for a more intermediate/moderate shoe and wanted some insight. Sizing is the same with any climbing shoes. Need shoes, been doing a good amount of bouldering and indoor climbing. The miura is definitely a better shoe and still decently comfortable, but twice the cost, and the rubber doesn’t last near as long. My climbing is a 70/30 split, mostly lead and top rope but a significant amount of bouldering. vfsx fha kua zckb rwgub qheb jayyn ynbaaj tftvdm kfgspf twt qbpx hws cfgfh zclde