Climbing requires skill, focus, and the right equipment to ensure safety and performance. Among the most crucial gear for any climber are the climbing shoes. These specialized shoes are designed to give climbers the grip and sensitivity needed to navigate through rough terrains and cling onto holds that might otherwise be impossible with regular footwear. With the sport’s growing popularity, the market has become flooded with options varying in closure type, materials, and design to cater to different climbing styles and rock types, from bouldering to sport climbing to multi-pitch routes.
When choosing climbing shoes, a few key factors come into play. The fit should be snug but not painfully tight, as comfort impacts endurance and precision. The type of rubber and its thickness can affect grip and sensitivity, with softer rubbers typically providing a better feel for the rock but wearing down more quickly. The shape of the shoe—aggressive downturned or flat—can also influence performance based on the type of climbing. Added features like Velcro straps, lace-ups, or slip-ons impact the ease of getting in and out of the shoes as well as adjustability.
Durability is another consideration, as climbing shoes endure a lot of wear and tear and repairs can be costly. Lastly, the rubber’s stickiness and the quality of construction determine the shoe’s longevity and performance. We have scrutinized multiple climbing shoes, assessing crucial attributes such as comfort, durability, precision, and grip, to help you find the best climbing shoes of the year that align with your climbing ambitions and style. After extensive research and testing, the following recommendations will guide climbers towards their best fit for optimal performance on the rock.
Top Climbing Shoes of the Year
We’ve spent countless hours testing and scrutinizing the top climbing shoes on the market to bring you our definitive guide to the best choices available. Whether you’re tackling sheer cliff faces or indoor walls, the selection ahead has been judged on crucial factors such as grip, comfort, durability, and performance to ensure that you can trust your feet on any ascent.
SCARPA Arpia Climbing Shoes
We believe these climbing shoes could be a game-changer for climbers seeking a sensitive and precise fit for technical climbs.
Pros
- Superior sensitivity for technical footwork
- Minimal stretch ensures lasting fit
- XS Grip 2 rubber provides excellent traction
Cons
- May not suit beginners looking for more support
- Tightening strap might lack sufficient adjustability
- Some users report durability issues with heavy use
Having recently tested the SCARPA Arpia Climbing Shoes on some steep boulders, our impression is one of confidence. Their aggressive downturn and thin midsole offer the tactile feel needed for those minute adjustments on tiny holds. It’s like you can feel every nuance of the rock beneath you, a particularly valuable quality when navigating slick rock faces.
Another appreciated feature is their synthetic microfiber upper. Unlike some climbing shoes that loosen over time, these maintained a snug fit after several sessions. The importance of this can’t be overstated—for precision climbing, it’s vital that the shoe moves as an extension of the foot without any shift or play.
Traction is, of course, pivotal, and the SCARPA Arpia delivers. The Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber sticks to surfaces with a reliable grip that has offered us an edge on both overhangs and delicate slab problems. Whether on indoor holds or natural rock features, the shoes have consistently allowed for both powerful toe hooks and reassuring heel engagement.
In our experience, SCARPA’s sizing advice is spot on. Starting from a well-fitting size is crucial because there’s little stretch to compensate for a poor choice. Do pay attention to the sizing chart and consider a half to two sizes down from your regular shoe size for performance fit. Despite this attentive sizing process, we’ve observed that fine-tuning the tightness can be tricky as the strap may run short, a minor but noted detail for those with very narrow feet.
While largely impressed, it’s only fair to acknowledge that some climbers have reported wear and tear after intensive use. If you climb frequently and at a high level, durability could be a matter for consideration. However, for climbers who prioritize sensitivity and a sharp climbing experience, these cons may be an acceptable trade-off against the performance benefits offered by the SCARPA Arpia.
SCARPA Origin Climbing Shoes
We think these SCARPA Origin Climbing Shoes strike a fantastic balance between comfort and functionality for both new and seasoned climbers.
Pros
- Remarkable comfort right out of the box, ideal for extended climbing sessions.
- Durable Vision rubber soles offer reliable grip on various surfaces.
- Dual-strap closure system allows for a customizable and precise fit.
Cons
- May require sizing up, as they can fit quite snugly.
- Stiff build may reduce sensitivity for more advanced techniques.
- Not particularly designed for aggressive toe hooks or overhangs.
After trying the SCARPA Origin Climbing Shoes, the initial impression was one of undeniable comfort. The flat-last design with only a slight asymmetry provides all-day wearability without sacrificing the grip needed for solid technique development. The dual hook-and-loop straps are a breeze to adjust, making dialing in the ideal fit simple and quick.
With these shoes, spending hours at the gym working on new routes is more enjoyable. They mold to your feet, yet maintain just the right amount of tension to keep you supported on small holds. And the heel design is quite thoughtful—it distributes the tension and reduces pressure on the Achilles, which is often a sore spot for many climbers.
What really stands out about these shoes is their longevity. The thick rubber holds up against frequent use, so you can really get your money’s worth as you refine your footwork skills. While they might not be the best for intricate toe hooks or severe overhang climbing, they’re perfect for gym climbing and developing a strong foundational skill set.
SCARPA Vapor V
We find the SCARPA Vapor V to be a top choice for climbers who value a blend of performance and comfort for various climbing pursuits.
Pros
- Versatile for both technical and vertical climbs
- High-comfort suede construction
- Durable Vibram XS Edge rubber soles
Cons
- Initial break-in period can be uncomfortable
- May not suit climbers with unusually wide feet
- Snug fit requires precise sizing, which can be tricky
After spending some time on the rock with the Vapor Vs, we were immediately impressed by their versatility. The balance between the moderate downturn and the shoe’s profile enables us to transition from boulder problems to lengthy sport routes without a hitch. This adaptability was particularly noticeable on climbs where precision footwork was key, as the shoes allowed us to feel secure on small holds.
The suede construction of the upper paired with the Vibram XS Edge outsole yielded an exceptional sense of stability, a feature that truly shone on longer, more technical routes. We also appreciated the reduced tongue volume and the conforming suede foot base, which translated into extra comfort during extended wear, a rare find in high-performance climbing shoes.
As for downsides, the break-in period stood out. While the shoes sculpted to our feet beautifully over time, the initial snugness did highlight the importance of getting the sizing just right. This was not an issue for us, but could be a point of contention for those with wider feet or a preference for a more relaxed fit. Despite this, once the shoes were adequately broken in, they felt almost like a natural extension of our feet, responding precisely to the nuances of varied climbing surfaces.
La Sportiva Solutions
After putting the La Sportiva Solutions to the test, we’re convinced that they’re an excellent investment for any climber focused on performance.
Pros
- Exceptional grip and precision
- Comfortable for downturned shoes
- Highly adjustable for a snug fit
Cons
- Might be too aggressive for beginners
- Steeper learning curve for optimal use
- Slightly more expensive than some counterparts
The instant I slipped into the La Sportiva Solutions, the impeccable balance between comfort and performance was unmistakable. With a day spent tackling overhangs and technical boulders, the shoes showcased their superb edging capabilities and precision. The Vibram XS Grip rubber clung to the smallest features, boosting confidence with every move.
Our day at the crag was a mix of challenging routes and complex problems, a real test for any climbing shoe. The Solutions delivered a sensitive feel, precise foot placements, and powerful heel hooks thanks to the P3 system that maintains the shoe’s aggressive downturn. Despite the snug fit and support, there was no sacrifice in comfort even after several hours of continuous wear.
As we wrapped up our session, it was clear that the single-strap design combined with the Fast Lacing System allowed for quick adjustments between attempts. The precision fit ensured there were no distractions from ill-fitting shoes, letting us focus solely on our climbing. While not the budget-friendly option for someone just starting out, for the seasoned climber, the La Sportiva Solutions are a compelling choice for elevating your climbing game.
La Sportiva Comp
We believe the La Sportiva Solution Comp is a top pick for climbers who need a competitive edge in precision and grip.
Pros
- Exceptional toe-hook rubber offers remarkable grip on overhangs
- The P3 System maintains the shoe’s aggressive shape
- Fast lacing system allows for quick adjustments
Cons
- Some climbers may find the snug fit requires a break-in period
- Priced higher than some other options
- The narrow heel design might not suit all foot shapes
The La Sportiva Solution Comp stands out in a crowd of climbing shoes with its remarkable rubber coverage at the front. When I used them on a recent indoor session, these shoes stuck to tiny jibs and volumes like glue, giving my confidence a significant boost.
The shoe’s tapered heel caught my attention immediately — it’s superbly designed for heel hooking on the smallest nubbins. And lacing up was a breeze; the Fast Lacing System is a serious time-saver when I’m eager to hit the wall.
After several climbs, the comfort of the sock lining became more apparent, molding to my feet while maintaining the aggressive downturn thanks to the P3 technology. The XS-Grip2 outsole didn’t disappoint either — every smear and edge felt as precise and safe as advertised, even though my feet have yet to adjust completely to the narrow heel cup.
In the end, we find the Solution Comp to be a compelling option for serious climbers seeking performance in competitions or challenging projects. Despite the need for some time to get used to the fit and the price point, the benefits to one’s climbing technique are unmistakable.
Buying Guide
Understanding Climbing Shoe Types
We categorize climbing shoes into three main types based on the shape and intended use:
- Neutral: Ideal for beginners due to comfort, suitable for long climbs.
- Moderate: They have a slightly downturned shape, offering a balance between comfort and technical performance.
- Aggressive: Highly downturned for precision on steep routes, but less comfortable for prolonged use.
Fit and Comfort
Fit is paramount when selecting climbing shoes. Shoes should be snug but not painfully tight, as they will stretch slightly with use. Here are key points for fit:
- Length: Toes at the end without curling.
- Width: Snug across the ball of the foot.
- Heel: No dead space or pinch.
Material and Closure Systems
Materials impact stretch and durability:
- Leather: Stretches over time for a custom fit.
- Synthetic: Less stretch, consistent fit.
Closure systems affect convenience and adjustability:
- Lace-Up: Customizable fit, precise adjustments.
- Velcro: Quick to put on/take off, moderate adjustability.
- Slip-On: Minimal adjustments, relies on fit.
Sole
The sole’s thickness and rubber type affect performance:
| Sole Thickness | Performance |
|---|---|
| Thin (3-4mm) | Better sensitivity |
| Thick (5mm+) | Durable, supportive |
- Stickier rubber: More grip, wears out faster.
- Harder rubber: Better edge support, lasts longer.
Features to Consider
When selecting climbing shoes, also keep in mind these additional features:
- Rubber Rand: Extra rubber around the toe or heel for toe hooks and heel hooks.
- Asymmetry: More pronounced can increase precision at a cost of comfort.
- Adjustability: Look for shoes that can adjust to foot swelling often experienced during climbs.
Remember, the best shoe is the one that fits well and meets the demands of the climbing you plan to do.