When it comes to indoor rock climbing, having the right pair of shoes can make all the difference in your performance and safety. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for you. Here are five key points to consider when looking for the best shoes for indoor rock climbing:
1. Fit: Make sure the shoes fit snugly and comfortably, with no extra space inside. A good fit will allow you to feel the rock surface and have better control over your movements.
2. Type of Climbing: Consider the type of climbing you'll be doing. If you're a beginner or prefer a more relaxed style, a neutral shoe with a flat sole may be more suitable. If you're an advanced climber or prefer steep and overhanging routes, a downturned shoe with an aggressive shape may be better.
3. Material: Look for shoes made with durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of climbing. Many shoes are made with synthetic materials that are more durable than leather.
4. Closure System: Decide on the type of closure system that works best for you. Lace-up shoes offer a more customizable fit, while velcro or slip-on shoes are easier to put on and take off.
5. Price: Consider your budget and invest in a pair of shoes that will last you a long time. Keep in mind that higher-priced shoes often offer better performance and durability.
By considering these key points, you'll be able to find the best shoes for indoor rock climbing that will help you climb better and safer.
10 Best Shoes For Indoor Rock Climbing
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1. Scarpa Men's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes For Gym And Sport Climbing – Covey/black – 7
The SCARPA Men's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes are designed to provide comfort and support during gym and sport climbing activities. With a flat-last and slight asymmetry, these climbing shoes prioritize your comfort while still giving you the grip and stability you need to develop your climbing techniques.
The dual-strap closure system allows you to customize the fit of the shoes based on the shape of your feet and the performance you desire. This feature ensures that you have the perfect fit to maximize your climbing experience.
The shoes are equipped with Vision Rubber outsoles, which provide exceptional durability and give you the time you need to master the nuances of proper footwork. The thick rubber outsole also provides excellent grip and traction, making it easy for you to climb with confidence.
The unique heel system of the SCARPA Men's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes is designed to absorb pressure and spread the force of the heel tension, reducing pressure on your Achilles heel while still providing active forward pressure. This feature ensures that you can climb for extended periods without experiencing discomfort or pain.
The passive rand of the shoes prioritizes comfort over power, making them perfect for all-day use. The rand is tensioned perfectly to provide a snug fit without causing any foot fatigue.
In summary, the SCARPA Men's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced climbers alike. With a focus on comfort, support, and durability, these shoes are sure to help you take your climbing skills to the next level. So, start comfortable, stay comfortable, and climb your way to the top with the SCARPA Men's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes.
2. Scarpa Women's Origin Climbing Shoes – Low-Volume, Women's Fit – Maldive/black – Size 9.5
The SCARPA Women's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes are designed for women who are just starting out in the world of rock climbing. With a low-volume, women's specific fit, these shoes are perfect for gym and sport climbing. The shoes feature a flat-last and only slight asymmetry, which puts your comfort first while still giving you the stick you need to develop a solid foundation of climbing techniques.
The Origin climbing shoes also feature a more narrow last and lower-volume heel cup for a women's-specific fit. This ensures that the shoes fit comfortably and securely, allowing you to focus on your climb without worrying about your shoes slipping or causing discomfort.
The thick rubber outsole of the Origin climbing shoes is highly durable, giving you the wiggle room you need to learn the nuances of proper footwork. This rubber outsole also provides excellent grip, ensuring that your feet stay firmly planted on the rock, even when you're pushing yourself to the limit.
To further enhance your comfort, the Origin climbing shoes feature a pressure absorbing fit. This unique heel system spreads the force of the heel tension, reducing pressure on your Achilles heel while still providing active forward pressure. This means that you can climb for longer without experiencing foot fatigue or discomfort.
The passive rand of the Origin climbing 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 especially important for beginners who may not be used to wearing climbing shoes for extended periods of time.
In summary, the SCARPA Women's Origin Rock Climbing Shoes are the perfect choice for women who are just starting out in the world of rock climbing. With their low-volume, women's specific fit, thick rubber outsole, pressure absorbing fit, and passive rand, these shoes provide the comfort and support you need to master the basics of climbing.
3. La Sportiva Kids Stickit Rock Climbing Shoe, Chili/poppy, 26/27, 9-10 (Little Kids)
The La Sportiva Kids Stickit Rock Climbing Shoe is a perfect choice for young climbers looking for a simple yet functional design. The shoe is designed to help little feet grip holds without being too aggressively tight or technical, making it comfortable, convenient, and adaptable for kids. The straightforward design provides the comfort, convenience, and adaptability to spur kids to higher, more advanced routes at a faster pace.
One of the key features of the Stickit rock climbing shoe is its highly adjustable design, which loops around the top of the foot and the heel. This makes it easy to lace up for kids of all ages and ensures a snug fit that will keep their feet secure while they climb. The shoe is also unlined, which means that it is breathable and will keep feet comfortable all day, whether indoors on the instruction wall, at the climbing gym, or outside bouldering.
The Stickit rock climbing shoe is built with a grippy rubber sole that is lightly structured with less rigidity to offer a strong multi-purpose rock climbing shoe. The FriXion rubber grips plastic and rock equally well for edging and versatility across all surfaces. This means that kids can climb with confidence, knowing that they will be able to grip any surface and maintain their balance.
When buying rock climbing shoes, it is important to remember that they are designed to fit differently than other footwear. The La Sportiva size chart in the product images should be referenced for more accurate sizing. The fit should be tight, but not painful, and without pressure points. The Stickit rock climbing shoe is designed to provide all-around comfort and support, making it a great choice for kids who want to improve their climbing skills.
Overall, the La Sportiva Kids Stickit Rock Climbing Shoe is a great choice for young climbers who want a shoe that is comfortable, supportive, and easy to wear. With its simple yet functional design, grippy rubber sole, and adjustable fit, the Stickit is sure to help kids improve their climbing skills and reach new heights.
4. Evolv Defy Climbing Shoe – Men's Black/gray 11
The Evolv Defy Climbing Shoe is a high-quality product designed for men who are passionate about climbing. This shoe features a comfortable fit and a modest amount of performance, making it perfect for climbers who want a balance between comfort and functionality.
The upper of the shoe is made from perforated vegan synthetic material, which allows for breathability and comfort. The closure system consists of straps that ensure a secure fit, while the midsole is made from MX-P material that is 1.4mm thick and provides a sensitive full-length feel. The outsole is made from 4.2mm TRAX SAS material, which offers superior grip and durability.
The Defy shoe has an asymmetric profile and a VTR rand that is thicker in the front toe area. This design provides better support and allows for greater precision when climbing. The liner is made from nylon mesh, which adds to the shoe's breathability and comfort.
In terms of weight, the Defy shoe is incredibly lightweight, weighing only 8.5oz per shoe in size 9 Men's. This makes it easy to wear for long periods of time without causing fatigue or discomfort.
The Evolv Defy Climbing Shoe is also vegan-friendly, making it an ethical choice for those who are concerned about animal welfare. Overall, this shoe is an excellent choice for climbers who want a comfortable, high-performing shoe that is both durable and stylish.
5. La Sportiva Tarantulace Climbing Shoe – Women's Grey/hibiscus 36
The La Sportiva Tarantulace Climbing Shoe – Women's Grey/Hibiscus 36 is an excellent choice for female climbers looking for a comfortable yet high-performing shoe. Designed with an asymmetric shape, the TarantuLace offers advanced performance and support for your feet during climbs.
The upper of the TarantuLace is made of leather and synthetic leather, providing a durable and comfortable fit. The shoe is unlined, which allows for breathability and helps to reduce the overall weight of the shoe. The unlined design may also help to reduce the break-in period for the shoe, allowing climbers to get right to their climbs without too much discomfort from a new shoe.
The midsole of the TarantuLace is made of 1.8 mm LaspoFlex, which provides support and stability for your foot during climbs. The sole of the shoe is made of 5mm FriXion® RS rubber, which offers excellent grip and traction on a variety of surfaces. This combination of midsole and sole makes the TarantuLace a great choice for climbers looking for a shoe that can handle different types of terrain.
The last of the TarantuLace is RN 45, which means it is designed for a comfortable fit with low asymmetry. This makes the shoe a good choice for climbers who want a shoe that will be comfortable for longer periods of time, without sacrificing performance. The TarantuLace weighs in at 9.3 oz / 260 g, which is relatively light for a climbing shoe and can help reduce fatigue during longer climbs.
Overall, the La Sportiva Tarantulace Climbing Shoe – Women's Grey/Hibiscus 36 is an excellent choice for female climbers looking for a comfortable and high-performing shoe. With its unlined upper, 1.8mm LaspoFlex midsole, and 5mm FriXion® RS sole, the TarantuLace offers support, stability, and excellent grip on a variety of surfaces. The RN 45 last and low asymmetry make the shoe comfortable for longer periods of time, while the overall weight of the shoe makes it a good choice for climbers looking to reduce fatigue during longer climbs.
6. Climbx Ravex Strap Performance Rock Climbing Shoe 2020 (Red, Numeric_10_point_5)
The CLIMBX RaveX Strap Performance Rock Climbing Shoe 2020 is a high-performance shoe designed to meet the needs of climbers who demand the best in comfort, support, and durability. This shoe features a split design that offers excellent breathability and wraps comfortably around the feet for a secure fit. The 3D Butyl Rubber Sole is incredibly stable and offers excellent grip and traction on a variety of surfaces, while the thickened upper provides extra durability and wear-resistance, doubling the lifespan of the shoe.
One of the standout features of the CLIMBX RaveX Strap Performance Rock Climbing Shoe 2020 is the 3D Heel Design, which offers more power to the heel hook, allowing climbers to perform more advanced techniques with ease. The unique Offset Printing Technology used in the construction of this shoe offers protection from surface abrasion, strengthens friction, and enhances comfortability, making it an excellent choice for climbers who demand the best in performance and protection.
Whether you're a seasoned climber or just starting, the CLIMBX RaveX Strap Performance Rock Climbing Shoe 2020 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-performance shoe that offers comfort, support, and durability. With its split design, 3D Butyl Rubber Sole, and thickened upper, this shoe is built to last and provide excellent grip and traction on a variety of surfaces. The 3D Heel Design and Offset Printing Technology are just two of the many features that make this shoe stand out from the crowd, making it an excellent investment for anyone serious about climbing.
7. La Sportiva Mens Otaki Rock Climbing Shoe, Blue/flame, 9
The La Sportiva Mens Otaki Rock Climbing Shoe is a top of the line shoe designed for ultra-precision in climbing. It features patented P3 technology for a down-turned performance fit, which means that the shoe is specifically designed to provide maximum power and control when climbing. This technology allows the shoe to maintain its shape and performance over time, ensuring that the wearer can continue to climb at their best without having to replace their shoes.
The S-heel construction of the Otaki is another feature that sets it apart from other climbing shoes on the market. This design provides the best fit and powerful heel hooks, giving climbers the confidence and stability they need to tackle even the toughest climbs. The shoe's heel is designed to fit snugly against the foot, preventing slippage and allowing the wearer to maintain their balance even on difficult terrain.
In addition to its performance features, the Otaki is also designed for maximum comfort and durability. The shoe's laser cut uppers reduce stitching and bulk, which not only makes the shoe lighter and more comfortable to wear, but also increases its durability. This means that the shoe can withstand the wear and tear of even the most demanding climbs, ensuring that the wearer can rely on it to perform time and time again.
Overall, the La Sportiva Mens Otaki Rock Climbing Shoe is a top-quality shoe designed for serious climbers who demand the best in performance, comfort, and durability. With its patented P3 technology, S-heel construction, and laser cut uppers, this shoe is the perfect choice for anyone looking to take their climbing to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned climber or just starting out, the Otaki is sure to provide the support, stability, and precision you need to tackle even the toughest climbs with confidence.
8. Scarpa Women's Force V Climbing Shoes – Low-Volume Fit, Ice Fall/mandarin Red, Size 9.5.
The SCARPA Women's Force V Rock Climbing Shoes are designed to provide all-day comfort and performance for beginner climbers. With a flat profile and passive last, these shoes offer a comfortable fit without sacrificing performance.
The relaxed heel construction of the Force V shoes relieves pressure on the Achilles tendon, allowing climbers to wear them all day without having to remove them after every climb. This feature is particularly useful for climbers who want to focus on improving their skills and endurance.
The Vibram XS Edge Rubber provides superb support, stiffness, consistency, and durability, which is ideal for climbers learning the nuances of foot placements. This type of rubber is designed to help climbers gain better traction on the rock surface and improve their climbing performance.
The Women’s Last feature of these climbing shoes means that they have a more narrow last and lower-volume heel cup, providing a women’s-specific fit. This design ensures that women climbers can wear comfortable shoes that fit their feet correctly, which is essential for preventing injuries and improving climbing performance.
The V-Tension Rand is an active rand design that runs under the sole of the shoe, supporting the arch and forefoot. It gives climbers the feel of a more aggressive shoe without the associated pressure on the big toes. This feature is particularly useful for beginner climbers who are still developing their climbing technique.
Overall, the SCARPA Women's Force V Rock Climbing Shoes are an excellent choice for beginner climbers who want a comfortable and performance-driven shoe. With their relaxed heel construction, Vibram XS Edge Rubber, Women’s Last, and V-Tension Rand, these shoes provide all-day comfort and support for gym and sport climbing.
Best Shoes For Indoor Rock Climbing FAQs
Are there specific features to look for in a shoe for bouldering versus top roping?
Yes, there are specific features to look for in a shoe for bouldering versus top roping. For bouldering, shoes with a snug fit, aggressive downturned shape, and sticky rubber sole are preferred. This is because bouldering involves short, intense climbs that require precise foot placement and maximum power. A snug fit and downturned shape help the climber maintain a strong grip on the rock surface, while sticky rubber soles provide maximum friction.
On the other hand, for top roping, shoes with a more comfortable fit and stiffer sole are preferred. Top roping involves longer climbs that require endurance, and therefore, comfort is key. A stiffer sole provides a level of support and stability that helps the climber maintain a comfortable and efficient climbing posture. Additionally, a more comfortable fit allows the climber to wear the shoes for longer periods of time without experiencing any discomfort or pain.
How important is fit when choosing indoor climbing shoes?
Fit is extremely important when choosing indoor climbing shoes. The right fit ensures that your shoes are comfortable, provide adequate support and don't cause any pain or discomfort. A poorly fitting shoe can lead to injuries, blisters or even accidents while climbing. When trying on shoes, it's essential to pay attention to the shoe's snugness around the heel, the width of the toe box, and the overall fit of the shoe. Climbing shoes should fit tightly but not be painful, and they should not allow your feet to slide around inside them. It's also important to consider the type of climbing you'll be doing and choose a shoe that's appropriate for that activity. Ultimately, the right fit will make your climbing experience more enjoyable, safer, and more efficient.
What are the best brands for indoor climbing shoes?
There are several brands that offer high-quality indoor climbing shoes. La Sportiva, Scarpa, Five Ten, and Evolv are among the top-rated brands by climbers. Each brand has its unique features and designs, catering to different levels of expertise and styles of climbing. La Sportiva is known for its aggressive and precise fit shoes, making them popular among advanced climbers. Scarpa offers a range of shoes suitable for both beginners and advanced climbers, with a focus on comfort and durability. Five Ten is known for its sticky rubber soles, providing excellent grip on a variety of surfaces. Evolv offers a range of shoes with varying levels of stiffness and support, making them a popular choice among both beginner and advanced climbers. Ultimately, the best brand for indoor climbing shoes depends on the individual's preferences and needs.
What are the differences between beginner and advanced climbing shoes?
Beginner climbing shoes are designed for comfort and ease of use, with a flatter sole and thicker rubber for better grip. They are softer and more flexible, allowing for a greater range of motion, while also being less aggressive in shape. Beginner shoes are ideal for new climbers who are still learning proper footwork and technique.
Advanced climbing shoes, on the other hand, are designed for more experienced climbers who need a shoe that can handle more technical climbs. They have a more downturned shape, with a thinner sole and more aggressive rubber. This allows for greater precision and sensitivity when edging, smearing, and hooking, making them ideal for steep and challenging routes. Advanced shoes are also typically more snug and form-fitting, with a more asymmetrical shape to help support the foot on difficult climbs.
What makes a shoe suitable for indoor rock climbing?
Indoor rock climbing shoes need to provide a balance of comfort, precision, and grip. The shoes should fit snugly to prevent slipping, but not too tight to cause discomfort. A good fit ensures that the toes are curled to provide maximum grip on small holds. The sole of the shoe should be made of rubber, with a sticky texture that provides excellent traction on the rock surface. The shape of the shoe should be asymmetrical, with a downturned toe and a curved profile that allows the climber to put pressure on the big toe for better control. The shoe should also have a flat sole to provide stability when standing on small footholds. Finally, the shoe should have a strong heel cup that molds to the shape of the heel, providing support and stability when heel hooking. Overall, the best indoor rock climbing shoes should provide a balance of comfort, precision, and grip to give the climber the confidence to tackle any climbing challenge.