Best Rock Climbing Shoes For Women (2024 Updated)

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Are you a woman who loves rock climbing? If the answer is yes, then you know how important it is to have the right gear, especially when it comes to choosing the best rock climbing shoes. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. That's why we've put together a short guide with five key points to consider when looking for the best rock climbing shoes for women.

Firstly, you need to consider the type of climbing you will be doing. Different types of climbing require different types of shoes, so it's essential to choose the right shoe for your needs. Secondly, you need to think about the fit. A proper fit is crucial to ensure that you can climb safely and comfortably. Thirdly, you should look for shoes that offer good traction, as this will help you to grip the rock better. Fourthly, consider the material of the shoes. Synthetic shoes tend to be more durable, while leather shoes tend to be more comfortable. Lastly, you should think about the closure system of the shoes. Some climbers prefer lace-up shoes, while others prefer Velcro or slip-on shoes.

By considering these five key points, you'll be able to find the best rock climbing shoes for women that meet your needs and help you climb with confidence.

10 Best Rock Climbing Shoes For Women

1. Black Diamond Womens Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes, Black-Alloy, 8

The Black Diamond Women's Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes in Black-Alloy, size 8, are designed to provide a comfortable and customized fit for women climbers. With its neutral and flat last, these shoes are perfect for vertical climbing or all-day use. The shoes have a women's specific last that ensures a custom fit for female climbers, giving them the confidence to tackle any climbing challenge.

The snug fit of these shoes can be a bit tight, so it is recommended that customers choose a half-size larger than their normal shoe size to ensure a comfortable fit. The two Velcro straps on the shoes provide adjustability to achieve the perfect fit.

The shoes feature a 4.3mm rubber that is built for durability and molded for optimal consistency and performance. This ensures that the shoes will withstand the wear and tear of climbing, making them a long-lasting investment.

The soft flex midsole of the shoes adds sensitivity and comfort to the climber's experience. The softness of the midsole allows the climber to feel the shape of the rock, giving them better control and confidence as they climb.

Overall, the Black Diamond Women's Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes in Black-Alloy, size 8, are an excellent choice for women climbers who value comfort, durability, and performance. With its customized fit and features designed specifically for women, these shoes are a great addition to any climber's gear collection.

2. La Sportiva Womens Tarantula Rock Climbing Shoes, Red Plum, 7

The La Sportiva Women's Tarantula Rock Climbing Shoes in Red Plum, size 7, are a perfect fit for climbers who are just starting out in the sport. These shoes offer all-day comfort and versatility with the added convenience of a hook & loop closure system for easy adjustments.

The all-leather upper of these climbing shoes is breathable and durable, while a stretch insert ensures a precise fit for your foot shape. The shoes are unlined, providing a great fit and feel. The updated heel cup holds your heel in place, ensuring a secure and snug fit, and the highly adjustable 2-strap hook & loop closure system adapts to various foot shapes and sizes. Two heel pull-tabs and one toe tab make it easy to put on and take off these shoes.

The aggressive rubber heel rand and the sticky FriXion RS rubber sole provide excellent grip and durability, making these shoes perfect for climbing on a variety of surfaces. The ultra-thin LaSpoflex midsole provides maximum torsional rigidity, giving you the power and support you need to climb with confidence.

These shoes are designed with a rounded forefoot and higher volume to fit comfortably on a range of foot shapes. When selecting your size, be sure to reference the La Sportiva size chart in the product images for the most accurate sizing information. Rock climbing shoes are designed to fit differently than other footwear, so the fit should be tight but not painful, without any pressure points.

In summary, the La Sportiva Women's Tarantula Rock Climbing Shoes are a great choice for climbers who are looking for comfort, versatility, and durability. The secure and adjustable fit, combined with the grippy sole and sturdy midsole, make these shoes a reliable choice for climbers of all skill levels.

3. La Sportiva Womens Finale Rock Climbing Shoes, Clay/topaz, 7

The La Sportiva Women's Finale Rock Climbing Shoes are an excellent choice for climbers who prioritize comfort without compromising on performance. These shoes feature a soft, unlined eco-leather upper that stretches and molds to the contours of the feet, providing a comfortable and snug fit. The ecological tanning process used in the manufacturing of the eco-leather is free of heavy metals and is biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

The updated Slingshot heel design of the Women's Finale Rock Climbing Shoes increases comfort while maintaining fit and performance. The highly breathable padded mesh tongue with wicking cotton lining supports all-day comfort. The full-length lacing, made from recycled raw materials, and the microfiber lacing harness provide tear resistance to lacing eyelets. Additionally, the shoes are updated with two heel pull-tabs for easy on and off.

The 1/2 Sole Vibram XS Edge provides unparalleled grip and durability, making it easy to climb on cracks and edges. The ultra-thin LaSpoFlex midsole provides maximum torsional rigidity, ensuring that the shoes maintain their shape and support during intense climbs.

It is essential to note that rock climbing shoes are designed to fit differently than other footwear. The Women's Finale Rock Climbing Shoes are slip-lasted with medium asymmetry. The fit should be tight, but not painful, and without pressure points. Therefore, climbers should reference the La Sportiva size chart in the product images for more accurate sizing.

Overall, the La Sportiva Women's Finale Rock Climbing Shoes are a great option for climbers who prioritize comfort without sacrificing performance. The eco-leather upper, Slingshot heel design, and 1/2 Sole Vibram XS Edge provide a comfortable and secure fit that allows for excellent grip and durability.

4. La Sportiva Women's Solution Comp Rock Climbing Shoes, Hibiscus/malibu Blue, 37.5

The La Sportiva Women's Solution Comp Rock Climbing Shoes in Hibiscus/Malibu Blue, size 37.5, represent a significant redesign of the iconic Solution shoe that has been solving complex climbing problems for over a decade. This new version features more rubber around the toe for enhanced durability, but despite the extra material, it feels softer and more sensitive than the original.

The Solution Comp retains the aggressive profile, Vibram's XS Grip 2 rubber, and La Sportiva's original P3 Power Platform that made the original shoe so successful. However, the redesign provides a greater performance for modern, competition climbing. The enhanced softness and sensitivity allow for better precision and control during climbs.

The Solution Comp also features a quick-pull lacing harness that allows for precise regulation of inner volumes, wrapping the foot snugly for excellent support, fit, and comfort. This feature is especially useful for climbers who need to adjust their shoe fit quickly and easily during climbs.

The Solution Comp has already earned the Editor's Choice award from Climbing Magazine, which praised the gym-focused shoe's softer midsole, bigger scumming patch, and narrower heel than the original. Testers found that the Solution Comp breaks in quicker than the OG model and performs better on volumes and smears, making it a runaway hit.

When purchasing rock climbing shoes, it is essential to reference the La Sportiva size chart in the product images for more accurate sizing. Climbing shoes are designed to fit differently than other footwear, and the fit should be tight but not painful, without pressure points.

Overall, the La Sportiva Women's Solution Comp Rock Climbing Shoes in Hibiscus/Malibu Blue, size 37.5, represent a significant redesign of a classic shoe that has already earned accolades from the climbing community. With enhanced durability, sensitivity, and performance, these shoes are an excellent choice for modern, competition climbing.

5. La Sportiva Womens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Topaz/red Plum, 8

The La Sportiva Women's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes are a versatile choice for climbers who want to tackle any terrain. These shoes are comfortable enough for all-day outdoor climbing or a trip to the gym, making them a jack-of-all-trades climbing shoe.

The shoes' all-leather upper is breathable and durable, yet stretches to conform to the shape of the foot. A padded internal tongue with cotton lining protects the sensitive top of the foot. An updated heel cup holds the heel in place for a secure and snug fit, while quick-pull lacing allows for a precise fit along the length of the foot. Two heel pull-tabs and one tongue tab assist in easy on/off.

The La Sportiva Women's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes offer excellent support, fit, and comfort. The shoes' aggressive rubber heel rand and sticky FriXion RS rubber provide a powerful edging platform climb after climb. An ultra-thin LaSpoflex midsole provides maximum torsional rigidity.

Designed with a rounded forefoot and higher volume, these shoes are built to comfortably fit more climbers. It's important to note that rock climbing shoes are designed to fit differently than other footwear. The fit should be tight but not painful, and without pressure points. The La Sportiva size chart in the product images provides more accurate sizing information.

In summary, the La Sportiva Women's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes are a durable and versatile choice for climbers looking for a single pair of shoes to do it all. With their breathable and stretchy all-leather upper, secure fit, and excellent grip, these shoes are ideal for climbing any terrain.

6. Scarpa Furia Air Climbing Shoes – Baltic Blue/yellow – 10.5: Specialized For Sensitivity And Breathability In Sport Climbing And Bouldering.

The SCARPA Furia Air Rock Climbing Shoes are designed to provide specialized performance for sport climbing and bouldering. These cutting-edge shoes feature an eight-piece, perforated microfiber upper that keeps them ultralight and breathable, making them feel like a second-skin rather than a traditional rock shoe.

The Vibram XS Grip 2 Rubber, used in the construction of the sole, is both stiff and sticky, providing the grip needed for steeper walls and overhanging boulders. This rubber is ideal for any rock type and style, ensuring the shoe can handle any challenge that comes your way.

The highly asymmetric design of the shoe is amplified by the DTS Active Rand system, which transfers power directly to your big toe and helps the shoe retain its downturned shape. This design provides the sensitivity and precision needed for even the most technical climbs.

SCARPA has also incorporated Surround Rubber Tension into the design of the Furia Air Rock Climbing Shoes. This feature involves wrapping a layer of soft M50 rubber around the forefoot, adding a touch of stiffness to the toe and providing unparalleled stick for toe hooks and scums.

To offset the soft midsole, the PAF System is used in the construction of the heel cup. This innovative system spreads out the force created while heel hooking, offering the stick needed without adding pressure on your Achilles tendon. This design ensures comfort and protection while allowing climbers to focus on their technique and performance.

In conclusion, the SCARPA Furia Air Rock Climbing Shoes are a top-of-the-line choice for climbers looking for specialized performance. With their ultralight and breathable construction, Vibram XS Grip 2 Rubber, DTS Active Rand, Surround Rubber Tension, and PAF System, these shoes are designed to help climbers reach new heights with ease and comfort.

7. Scarpa Women's Origin Climbing Shoes – Low-Volume, Women's Specific Fit – Maldive/black – 8.5-9. Ideal For Gym And Sport Climbing.

SCARPA Women's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes are designed for women who love to climb. These shoes feature a low-volume, women's specific fit that is perfect for gym and sport climbing. The Maldive/Black color combination is stylish and eye-catching.

The Origin climbing shoe is built with comfort in mind. It has a flat-last and only slight asymmetry, which allows you to focus on developing a solid foundation of climbing techniques. The shoe's design puts your comfort first while still giving you the stick you need to climb with confidence.

These climbing shoes feature a more narrow last and lower-volume heel cup, making them a great fit for women. The Vision Rubber outsole is highly durable, giving you the wiggle room you need to learn the nuances of proper footwork. The thick rubber outsole is also great for edging and smearing.

One of the unique features of the SCARPA Women's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes is the pressure-absorbing fit. The shoe's heel system spreads the force of the heel tension, reducing pressure on your Achilles heel while still providing active forward pressure. This allows you to climb with less pain and fatigue.

The passive rand on these shoes prioritizes comfort over power. The rand is tensioned perfectly to let you wear these climbing shoes all day, without feeling any foot fatigue. This is great for climbers who want to spend a long day at the gym or crag.

In conclusion, the SCARPA Women's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes are a great choice for women who want a comfortable and durable climbing shoe. The shoe's low-volume, women's specific fit and pressure-absorbing fit make it a great choice for climbers of all levels. The passive rand design allows you to wear these shoes for extended periods without feeling any foot fatigue. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned climber, the SCARPA Women's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes are a great investment.

8. La Sportiva Womens Solution Rock Climbing Shoes, White Lily/orange, 7.5-8

The La Sportiva Womens Solution Rock Climbing Shoes are a high-performance footwear option specifically designed for women who are looking to tackle challenging climbs and modern bouldering problems. This shoe is an award-winning and best-selling product from La Sportiva, which is known for producing high-quality climbing gear.

The uppers of the shoe are made from laser-cut leather and microfiber, which reduces stitching and bulk, providing a comfortable fit without sacrificing feel. The toe box and arch areas are lined for additional comfort, while the rest of the shoe remains unlined for maximum sensitivity.

The shoe features a pointed, large down-turned performance fit with high asymmetry, which allows for precise slicing and dicing where needed. The medium stiffness and volume of the shoe provide top performance and sensitivity.

The shoe is wrapped in sticky Vibram XS Grip rubber with a molded 3D heel cup. The patented P3 (Permanent Power Platform) technical randing system delivers power to the sole and retains the downturned shape of the shoe, ensuring that it maintains its performance over time.

The highly adjustable Fast Lacing System allows for a personalized fit, while the single-strap, slipper design provides a precision fit. This combination of features ensures that the La Sportiva Womens Solution Rock Climbing Shoes provide a comfortable and secure fit, while still allowing for maximum performance on the rock.

Overall, the La Sportiva Womens Solution Rock Climbing Shoes are a top-performing shoe for women who are serious about climbing. The combination of technical features and high-quality materials make this shoe a great choice for anyone looking to take their climbing to the next level.

9. Lightweight And Breathable Climbing Shoes With Dual-Strap Closure, Non-Slip Sole – Black.

The Core Climbing Shoes are a must-have for any rock climber, whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber. These lightweight, breathable shoes are designed to provide superior comfort, durability, and performance during indoor and outdoor climbing sessions.

With their excellent cushioning, these shoes offer a softer impact and lighter strides, reducing the risk of injury to the foot while climbing at high speed. The durable quality of the Core climbing shoes ensures long-lasting use, and their breathability keeps your feet cool and dry, even during intense climbing sessions.

What sets these climbing shoes apart is their highly adjustable, quick-closing hook and loop closure system. This feature allows for a personalized fit, ensuring that the shoes stay snugly in place while you climb. The ergonomic design of these shoes provides flexibility and long-lasting comfort, so you can climb for hours without discomfort.

In addition to their comfort and durability, the Core Climbing Shoes are slip-resistant, making them perfect for rocky terrain. The agile, robust midsoles and high-traction rubber soles provide excellent grip, ensuring that you can climb with confidence, even on the most challenging climbing routes. The flexible insole provides comprehensive protection and comfort, allowing you to focus on your climb without worrying about foot fatigue.

Overall, the Core Climbing Shoes are an excellent investment for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable pair of climbing shoes. Whether you're heading to the gym or hitting the great outdoors, these shoes are designed to enhance your climbing performance and provide the comfort and support you need to climb with confidence.

10. Mad Rock Phoenix Climbing Shoe – Mustard Men's 9.5/women's 11

The Mad Rock Phoenix Climbing Shoe in Mustard for Men's size 9.5 and Women's size 11 is a top-of-the-line climbing shoe designed for both comfort and performance. With a leather construction and a slightly asymmetrical toe box, this shoe provides a snug fit that conforms to the shape of the foot, allowing for maximum control and precision on the rock.

The supportive midsole of the Mad Rock Phoenix Climbing Shoe gives the shoe a medium stiffness, providing the necessary support for both beginners and advanced climbers. The Syn Flex upper is durable and offers breathability, ensuring that the shoe can withstand even the most challenging climbs while keeping the foot cool and comfortable.

The Mad Rock Phoenix Climbing Shoe also features a lace-up closure, which allows the wearer to adjust the fit of the shoe to their liking. This feature is especially useful for climbers who have different foot shapes or who prefer a tighter or looser fit.

One of the standout features of the Mad Rock Phoenix Climbing Shoe is the Science Friction 3.0 Rubber with Science Friction R2 Rand. This rubber is specifically designed for climbing shoes and provides excellent traction on both rock and indoor climbing walls. The Science Friction R2 Rand is a unique feature that reinforces the toe box of the shoe, providing extra protection and durability in high-wear areas.

In summary, the Mad Rock Phoenix Climbing Shoe in Mustard is a top-performing shoe that is designed to provide climbers with the comfort, support, and precision they need to take on challenging climbs. With a leather construction, slightly asymmetrical toe box, and supportive midsole, this shoe is both durable and versatile, making it an excellent choice for climbers of all skill levels. The Syn Flex upper, lace-up closure, and Science Friction 3.0 Rubber with Science Friction R2 Rand provide additional features that make this shoe stand out from others on the market.

Best Rock Climbing Shoes For Women FAQs

How do I choose the right size and fit for women's rock climbing shoes?

When choosing the right size and fit for women's rock climbing shoes, it is important to consider the type of climbing you will be doing and the level of experience you have. It is recommended to size down 1-2 sizes from your normal shoe size to ensure a snug fit that will provide optimal performance and sensitivity on the rock. However, be sure to try on several different styles and brands to find the perfect fit for your foot shape and size. Look for shoes with a snug heel and toe box, as well as a comfortable fit around the arch and midfoot. Additionally, consider the type of closure system, such as laces or velcro, and how it affects the fit and adjustability of the shoe. Ultimately, the right size and fit will provide a comfortable and secure fit that allows for maximum performance and enjoyment while climbing.

What are the best features to look for in rock climbing shoes for women?

When choosing rock climbing shoes for women, fit and comfort are key. Look for shoes that fit snugly without causing pain or discomfort. Shoes with a smaller and more pointed toe box are ideal for climbing on small footholds, while shoes with a flatter, stiffer sole are better for edging and smearing. A sticky rubber sole is also important to help grip the rock surface.

Other features to consider include the closure system, which can be laces, Velcro, or slip-on. Laces provide the most adjustability, while Velcro and slip-on shoes offer convenience and speed.

The shoe design and construction can also impact your climbing experience. A downturned shape can provide more power for steep climbs, while a neutral shape is better for all-around climbing. Additionally, a shoe with a breathable upper can help keep your feet cool and dry during long climbs.

What are the best rock climbing shoes for women that provide the most comfort and support?

Finding the right rock climbing shoes for women can be a challenging task, as everyone's feet are different. However, there are a few brands and models that are known for providing comfort and support. La Sportiva Tarantulace is a popular choice for beginner and intermediate climbers, as it offers a versatile fit and a sticky rubber sole. Scarpa Helix is another option that provides a comfortable fit with a padded tongue and a heel cup. For those with wider feet, Five Ten Anasazi LV offers a wider toe box and a low volume fit. Women-specific models like Evolv Elektra and Black Diamond Momentum are designed to fit the female foot shape and provide extra support. Ultimately, the best rock climbing shoes for women will depend on individual preferences, foot shape, and level of experience. It's important to try on different models and sizes before making a purchase to ensure the best fit and performance.

What are the most important factors to consider when selecting rock climbing shoes for women?

When selecting rock climbing shoes for women, it is important to consider the fit, type of climbing, and personal preferences. The fit of the shoe should be snug but not uncomfortable, with no gaps or excessive pressure points. The type of climbing should also be considered, as different shoes are designed for different types of climbing, such as bouldering or traditional climbing. Personal preferences such as the stiffness of the sole, the level of downturn, and the closure system should also be taken into account. It is also important to consider the level of experience and skill of the climber, as more advanced climbers may require more technical shoes. Ultimately, selecting the right rock climbing shoes for women can greatly enhance performance, comfort, and safety on the rock.

Which brands make the best rock climbing shoes for women?

There are several brands that make the best rock climbing shoes for women, based on their performance, durability, and comfort. These include:

1. La Sportiva – A popular brand that offers a range of women-specific rock climbing shoes, including the Miura, Katana, and Tarantula.

2. Scarpa – Another well-known brand that offers a range of women-specific rock climbing shoes, including the Vapor V, Instinct VS, and Force V.

3. Five Ten – Known for their sticky rubber, Five Ten offers a range of women-specific rock climbing shoes, including the Anasazi LV, Hiangle, and Rogue VCS.

4. Evolv – A brand that focuses on comfort, Evolv offers a range of women-specific rock climbing shoes, including the Elektra, Shaman, and Oracle.

Ultimately, the best rock climbing shoe for women will depend on personal preferences and the type of climbing being done. It is important to try on several different shoes and styles to find the perfect fit and functionality for each individual.

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