Best Beginner Rock Climbing Shoes for 2026
The Best Beginner Rock Climbing Shoes for Bouldering, Gym, and Outdoor Use
September 15th, 2026, updated with another year's worth of testing to verify rankings and 3 new pairs tested
Home > Gear Reviews > Climbing
A good beginner climbing shoe should feel secure enough for precise footwork without being so tight or aggressive that it makes learning uncomfortable. For this guide, we focused on shoes that balance comfort, grip, support, and durability for new climbers learning technique in the gym and outdoors.
Our lead tester is a certified climbing instructor and former climbing gym manager who has taught hundreds of beginners. For this guide, she and other testers wore the shoes on gym routes, bouldering problems, and moderate outdoor climbs, with testers representing different foot widths and climbing experience levels.
We evaluated each shoe for fit and comfort, grip, edging performance, support, sensitivity, break-in, and durability. We also considered how easy each shoe is to put on and adjust, how forgiving the fit is for newer climbers, and whether it provides enough performance for a beginner to keep progressing without immediately needing an upgrade.
Top Pick: The La Sportiva Finale (men's and women's) earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for its comfortable, supportive fit, dependable grip and edging, durable construction, and versatile performance for beginners climbing both indoors and outside.
Related: Best Climbing Harnesses
We write mission-driven gear reviews. To find the best gear, we combine expert reviews, everyday user opinions, and rigorous independent trail testing—never native ads or sponsored posts. We are 100% reader-supported and may make a small commission from some qualifying affiliate links. Learn more.
Comparison Tables
Men's
| Climbing Shoe | Treeline Award | Rubber Type | Rubber Thickness | Upper | Lining | Closure | Downturn | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Sportiva Finale | Best Overall Read why |
Vibram XS Edge | 5 mm | Leather/ microfiber | Unlined | Lace-up | Flat | $139 |
| La Sportiva Tarantulace | Best Affordable Read why |
FriXion RS | 5 mm | Leather | Unlined | Lace-up | Flat | $99 |
| Black Diamond Momentum | Best Velcro Read why |
Black Label rubber | 3.75 mm | Micro suede | Polyester/ suede | Strap | Flat | $130 |
| Five Ten NIAD Moccasym (unisex) | Best for Bouldering Read why |
Stealth C4 | 4.2 mm | Leather | Unlined | Elastic slip-on | Moderate | $125 |
| Evolv Defy | Best Vegan Read why |
TRAX SAS | 3.5 mm | Synthratek VX (synthetic) | Unlined | Lace or strap | Flat | $139 |
Women's
| Climbing Shoe | Treeline Award | Rubber Type | Rubber Thickness | Upper | Lining | Closure | Downturn | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Sportiva Finale | Best Overall Read why |
Vibram XS Edge | 5 mm | Leather/ microfiber | Unlined | Lace-Up | Flat | $139 |
| La Sportiva Tarantulace | Best Affordable Read why |
FriXion RS | 5 mm | Leather | Unlined | Lace-up | Flat | $99 |
| Black Diamond Momentum | Best Velcro Read why |
Black Label rubber | 3.5 mm | Micro suede | Polyester/ suede | Strap | Flat | $130 |
| Five Ten NIAD Moccasym (unisex) | Best for Bouldering Read why |
Stealth C4 | 4.2 mm | Leather | Unlined | Elastic slip-on | Moderate | $125 |
| Evolv Elektra | Best Vegan Read why |
TRAX SAS | 4.2 mm | Synthratek VX (synthetic) | Unlined | Lace or strap (strap is vegan) | Flat | $129 |
We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.
Climbing Curious? See our other Climbing articles:
The Best Beginner Climbing Shoes
Best Overall Beginner Climbing Shoe: La Sportiva Finale
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
What we didn't like: may rub some people's Achilles
The La Sportiva Finale is the winner for best overall beginner climbing shoe for its 5 mm stiff and grippy sole and a snug and secure fit for beginners that doesn't feel painfully compressed, but still feels precise.
The Finale's foot-conforming leather upper and traditional lace closure allow for dialed fit that is comfortable for beginners while also offering a lot of performance. Plus, unlike many climbing shoes in this price range, its construction is durable. With a hint of downturn, the Finale also makes a great “bridge shoe” to more technical climbing, so you can stick with this shoe as you gain more skills and strength. At $139.00, the Finale is well worth the price for beginners and intermediate climbers. It’s also the winner for Best for Beginners in our Best Indoor Climbing Shoes and Best Bouldering Shoes guide.
You can read more in our in-depth review of the La Sportiva Finale climbing shoes.
Compare prices of the La Sportiva Finale
Men's
Women's
-
We found the Vibram XS Edge rubber sole on the Finale to be sharp and stiff, adding to the longevity of the shoe. One of the ways rock climbing shoes fail over time is that the rubber loses this stiffness, but we don’t see that happening with the Finale for a long time. A stiffer shoe is well-suited for those getting into the sport as it provides support for foot muscles and ligaments. And as eco-minded climbers, we appreciate that this shoe can be resoled.
On the other side of the coin, the thick 5 mm rubber offers less sensitivity than a shoe with thinner rubber on holds. Most climbers getting into the sport will value the support of a stiffer shoe, but if sensitivity is important to you, the Black Diamond Momentum (review below) might be a better choice.
-
The La Sportiva Finale has a lace closure, which we think is the way to go for a beginner and intermediate climbing shoe. For beginners, we recommend prioritizing comfort. That means not sizing down like you're in ballet shoes (as some beginners are tempted to do). We recommend going with something closer to your true size.
Some climbers may be drawn to velcro straps for the ease of getting in and out of them. We respect that.
But for beginners, we think you'll want to opt for shoes that you need to take off less often. If your feet hurt when you wear climbing shoes, you'll start associating climbing with pain instead of with fun. Each time you take off your climbing shoes, that's an opportunity for you to stop climbing and go home. To stick with the sport, you'll want to choose shoes you can wear comfortably.
That's why we don't think of the Finale's laces as a dealbreaker. Velcro is the quickest loosening and tightening closure. But you can often get a more dialed fit by using laces.
As you grow into climbing, if you get into climbing some cracks, the laces can keep the profile of the shoe down and more maneuverable in tight places.
-
As far as sizing goes, the Finale is more of a “performance fit”—that is, they fit tightly. With its leather uppers, however, the tightness eases up after being broken in.
Based on our experience, we recommend beginners stay close to your true size or size up half a size for comfort.
We’re impressed by the overall design of the Finale, though the small V-shaped slit on the Achilles tended to rub my foot personally. Should you encounter rubbing, climbing or athletic tape can help with rubbing. To help choose how to size your shoe, see our section below on how to fit and size a climbing shoe.
-
The Finale is truly a great option for beginners and will likely be a shoe you own and use for a long time.
The specs, fit, performance in our testing, and supporting reviews from other media and customers alike make the Finale the clear winner for overall best beginner climbing shoe.
It's a shoe that will last and allow you to grow into it over time so that you’re not purchasing a more aggressive shoe a few months later.
Best Affordable Climbing Shoe: La Sportiva Tarantulace
Rubber Type: 5 mm FriXion RS
Lining: Unlined
Upper Material: Leather
Closure: Lace-up
Can be Resoled: Yes
Fit: Runs slightly large (half size big)
Type: Neutral
What we liked: Shape, comfort
What we didn’t like: Thick rubber can affect foot placement
The Best Affordable Beginner Climbing Shoe is the La Sportiva Tarantulace. Priced at a delightful $99—it’s not only one of the most affordable options out there, but delivers on performance.
The shape is great for comfort, making this a great introductory shoe, or a shoe for long days of climbing.
The Tarantulace is a classic beginner-to-intermediate shoe often mentioned by outdoor media as a good option for someone looking to stop using gym rental shoes and invest in their first pair of rock climbing shoes.
It won our Best Affordable climbing shoe award because it is a great value. While it does not have the same performance as our higher-priced winning recommendations, it holds its own when up against other models twice the price.
Compare prices of the La Sportiva Tarantulace
Men's
Women's
-
The Tarantulace has a neutral last—a small arch in the underfoot—which works great for a beginner climber transitioning into intermediate levels.
The lace-up closure is great for adjusting the whole shoe, especially as folks get into climbing and familiarize themselves with the parts of a rock climbing shoe and how they impact performance.
The leather upper stretches, so it remains comfortable no matter what type of climb you’re doing. That comfort will benefit you on gym climbs or bouldering as well when you start gearing up for longer multi-pitch climbs.
-
In terms of sizing as a whole, I ordered a half-size down from my street size and found them a touch snug at first. After breaking them in, they fit exactly like I want them to fit, though. My only sizing complaint was that the heel cup seemed to fit loose on this model. To help choose how to size your shoe, see our section below on how to fit and size a climbing shoe.
One thing to note about these shoes is the rubber is also quite thick, which many beginners find a benefit for durability as they learn footwork. However, it can make it challenging when attempting precise foot placement. Still, the thick rubber may be beneficial for durability, which may help save you money as you climb more and more.
Best Velcro Beginner Climbing Shoes: Black Diamond Momentum
Rubber Type: 3.75 mm (men’s) and 3.5 mm (women’s) Black Label rubber
Lining: Polyester suede
Upper Material: Microsuede polyester
Closure: Velcro strap/hook-and-loop
Can be Resoled: Yes
Type: Neutral
Sizing: Runs small
What we liked: Breathability, stretchiness
What we didn’t like: Outsole rubber inferior on edging
Black Diamond’s classic beginner shoe, the Momentum, shows up on a lot of lists for a reason: it has some awesome features for climbers looking to transition out of a rental shoe. The Momentums also have a solid beginner price, too: they’re competitive with our Budget Pick, the La Sportiva Tarantulace. At $130, it's hard to beat the Momentums. That is another reason why it’s often cited as a good choice for a beginner shoe.
The Momentums have been around for years and were previously our vegan winner. In the latest iteration, however, they contain suede in the upper and liner.
Compare prices of the Black Diamond Momentum
Men's
Women's
-
The microsuede polyester upper and knit tongue offer breathability and all-day comfort. In testing, we found the Black Diamond Momentum to be a comfortable, neutral shoe. The knit stretches to your feet but the liner makes it so it doesn’t feel too stretchy. In fact, customer reviews report it runs small.
-
The biggest complaint we saw across the board in reviews was the inconsistency with sizing. We also had this issue. I usually wear a size 38, and decided to test a 39 (US W 7.5)—and they were still quite small. If I were to order again, I would even consider going to a EUR 40. To help choose how to size your shoe, see our section below on how to fit and size a climbing shoe.
-
It’s available in both men’s and women’s versions and even a kids’ version. You can also get the Momentum Harness Package, which has a climbing harness, ATC belay device, locking carabiner, chalk bag, and climbing chalk (but no shoes).
-
In testing, we noticed the fabric can feel sticky if your feet are prone to getting sweaty. The Black Label rubber on the outsole also didn’t work as well as other shoes on edging performance (meaning placing the shoe on a pronounced edge of rock). While any part of the shoe can be used for edging, it’s most commonly done with the inside of the shoe, under the ball of your big toe. See thephoto below for what edging looks like.
That being said, the Black Diamond Momentum is not designed for the high precision footwork you would find in a high-performance shoe. It’s a beginner shoe designed to make you feel comfortable getting into climbing and we think it does that job well.
If the Momentums don’t work for you or you’re looking for something with more precision, check out Evolvs. Much of their line is vegan and the Defy and Elektra Velcro versions are our vegan climbing shoe winners (see reviews below). They're just a little more expensive.
-
There's a reason that the Momentum is one of the highest-rated beginner climbing shoes at REI and Backcountry: a balance of comfort, accessibility, and price. As you'd expect for being a budget shoe, it didn't perform as well as shoes we tested that cost more. But we think that is fine and you still get a lot of value for the price.
There's a lot to love about this shoe. At $130, even increased pricing in other outdoor gear in the last couple of years, it's hard to beat the Momentums.
Best Beginner Climbing Shoe For Bouldering: Five Ten Niad Moccasym
Rubber Type: 4.2 mm Stealth® C4
Lining: Unlined
Upper Material: Suede leather
Closure: Elastic slipper
Can be Resoled: Yes
Type: Moderate
Sizing: Runs small 0.5 to 1 size
What we liked: Toe rubber, good on edges
What we didn’t like: Toe rubber wears out quickly, break-in period.
The Five Ten NIAD Moccasym is the best beginner climbing shoe for bouldering. Although it is marketed for intermediate climbers, we find that many beginner boulderers advance quickly and these are among the best affordable slipper-style climbing shoes we tested.
The NIAD Moccasym is an easy on-and-off slipper that is convenient for bouldering or short climbs. Since bouldering relies on shorter power moves and rest periods in between, having a shoe that comes on and off quickly is ideal.
This is one of those pairs of shoes that climbers keep buying again and again. There are a lot of benefits to starting off your climbing career with “the one” you’ll keep for years.
Although this model is popular among intermediate and advanced boulderers, we think the NIAD is absolutely worth it for all levels of climbing. We especially recommend them for the type of beginner climbers who already know they are dedicated to the sport, come into climbing already fit, and want to excel fast.
And in the case of the Five Ten NIAD Moccasym, if you're a boulderer, there is a good chance this climbing shoe will be "the one."
View the Five Ten Niad Moccasym
-
The patented Stealth C4 rubber from Five Ten is a real crowd pleaser on all of their shoes. It’s sticky, not too thick, and really well engineered. Unlike the previous model, the latest edition has toe rubber running up the top of the foot—which is great for toe hooks. Compared to older models, it's gone from a softer to stiffer midsole, which has less sensitivity.
It's worth noting that some people who have been buying these shoes for a long time find that sizing is trickier with the rubber on the upper. No matter whether this is your first pair or 10th pair, be sure to size accordingly (more on that below).
Most customer reviews also found the toe rubber wore out or delaminated quicker than the rest of the shoe’s rubber. However, like most of the shoes in this review, they can be resoled, so you can keep using them for a while.
-
As far as sizing goes, prepare to potentially go a full size up from your street shoe, as these are going to stretch quite a bit given the leather upper.
It's worth noting that the Niad doesn't get as high of customer reviews as other shoes because of the sizing. The Niad is one of those models that is loved so much, people buy it again and again. So when the sizing changes, it can be upsetting.
-
There are a few downsides to the Niad. Forewarning: the leather upper will likely dye your feet red for the first couple of uses, which can be mildly alarming—but it does rinse off.
-
If you've been around the climbing world for awhile, you may know the Five Ten Mocassym by its former name, which was a long-standing bestseller for the brand.
The Five Ten Niad Moccasym shoe is a new twist on an old classic, the Five Ten Anasazi Moccasym (which referred to an outdated term for the Ancestral Pueblo and was renamed–you can read more about this in our Mesa Verde article). The very similar Niad Moccasym is a great all-around slip-on shoe that doesn’t sacrifice any comfort.
-
As mentioned above, the Niad doesn't get as high of customer reviews as you would expect given this has been a beloved shoe for almost a decade. Upon looking into it, adding rubber over the big toe was divisive among long-time Niad fans. The Niad now is more of a high-performance version than earlier versions, which can impact fit (and time to put the shoe on) as well.
While older models of the Niad were designed for crack climbing, we recommend the new Niads for bouldering and gym climbing. If that's what you buy them for and get the right size, you should be happy.
-
Our biggest hesitation with this shoe is that they’re pricey for a beginner shoe. But as mentioned above, there are many types of beginner climbers.
If you know you’re the type of boulderer who is going to go to the gym 5 times a week and be heading outdoors in a few months and buying your own crash pad with your next paycheck, you may enjoy investing in the quality and performance of the Niad.
This is a fail-safe shoe for all disciplines of climbing, especially with the new strip of rubber added. It’s a great shoe all around — a new model of something tried and true!
-
In our Best Bouldering Shoes guide, we recommend the La Sportiva Finale as the best for beginners (same as with this article). But if you made it this far in the article and weren't swayed by the Finale, we think the Five Ten NIAD Moccasym is the best choice for you.
In our Best Bouldering Shoes guide, we recommend the La Sportiva Mantra as best for indoor bouldering and it could be a good choice for newer climbers who only climb at the gym, but it isn't great for outdoor bouldering. If you are climbing outdoors, the Scarpa Instinct VSR gets great reviews from our testers, but costs nearly $100 more than the NIAD Moccasym.
We recommend the NIAD Moccasym for beginner climbers in this guide because of its affordable price, slip-on design, and reliability.
Best Vegan Beginner Climbing Shoe: Evolv Elektra (Women’s) Evolv Defy (Men’s)
Rubber Type: 3.5 mm (Defy) and 4.2 mm (Elektra) TRAX® SAS
Lining: Unlined
Upper Material: Synthetic microsuede
Closure: Velcro straps/hook-and-loop
Can be Resoled: Yes
Type: Neutral
Sizing: Runs small
What we liked: Great for learning toe and heel hooks
What we didn’t like: Synthetic material retains odors
Evolv has a great reputation in the climbing world for its high-performance, vegan footwear. The Evolv Elektra and Defy are no exception.
The Elektra has a padded split tongue that is comfortable and convenient for airing your feet out when not climbing.
The TRAX® SAS rubber is great if you're learning to heel hook or toe hook. (Photo example of heel hooking below.) While these are more advanced moves, they are always fun to learn as a new climber. And one of the most beginner-friendly aspects of the Elektra is that it is reasonably priced: $109 for the velcro closure and $129 for the lace-up closure.
Compare prices of the Evolv Climbing Shoes
Evolv Elektra (Women’s)
Evolv Defy (Men’s)
The Elektra is a great beginner shoe option, especially for those interested in vegan climbing shoes.
-
In testing, we found that these shoes will not stretch as they get broken in-which makes sense, as they have a synthetic upper. (This isn’t necessarily a negative, just something to be aware of.) I ordered a half-size smaller than my street shoe, and it felt pretty good. However, if the Elektra is your first climbing shoe, I recommend you go up a half-size from your street shoe for maximum comfort, as opposed to the tighter “performance fit” that I got out of them.
-
Although the Elektra is marketed at REI and Backcountry as a women’s shoe, Evolv’s website says all shoes are unisex. For men’s sizing, just go up in size or opt for the Evolv Defy.
-
One downside to the synthetic shoe material is that the Elektra will get quite stinky after a few sessions. We recommend using baking soda to dry and pull out some of the sweat after a session. Silica packets are great for drying the shoes out, but won’t deodorize. Two to three tea bags in each shoe for 24 hours can help mitigate the moisture and some of the smell. You can also get an antiseptic spray, like Lysol, to help kill and/or slow the growth of bacteria.
-
Overall, the Elektra is a super straightforward beginner shoe, nothing too fancy or technical which is sometimes what makes an awesome beginner shoe.
Best for Wide Feet: Butora Endeavor
Rubber Type: 4.0 mm Butora NEO Fuse
Lining: Microfiber
Upper Material: Suede/leather
Closure: Strap
Can be Resoled: Yes
Fit: Runs small
Type: Neutral
What we liked: Extremely comfortable, narrow and wide widths, good price point
What we didn’t like: Not the best on overhangs
If you have a narrow or wide foot, we'd encourage you to check out the Butora Endeavor. It comes in both narrow and wide widths – somewhat of a rarity in the rock climbing shoe world. Because of this sizing, we found them to be supremely comfortable (and again, we think that comfort is the top priority for beginner climbers).
View the Butora Endeavor
Wide Fit
Narrow Fit
-
In addition to being designed for wide feet, the Butora Endeavors have other design features that accommodate climbers whose feet have a hard time fitting comfortably in other shoes.
The Butora Endeavors have two Velcro straps that are opposing, which further fine-tunes the fit. We also like the asymmetrical toe shape, which is great for those of us with Morton's Toe.
-
While we think it's a great all-around shoe, that means it's not great at any one thing. So you may find yourself outgrowing it fairly quickly as your climbing progresses.
Other beginner climbing shoes we tested
These were all the climbing shoes we thought were good enough to test. They got good reviews not just in other media, but from customers at multiple sites.
While ultimately, we think based on our criteria, most climbers will be better served by our winners, each of these models has its own pros and cons. One might work better for you, depending on your circumstances and budget.
Scarpa Origin
Rubber Type: Vision Rubber
Lining: Unlined
Upper Material: Suede leather
Closure: Strap
Can be Resoled: Yes
Type: Flat-last, neutral
Fit: Higher-volume fit
The Tarantulace and Scapa Origin are often compared. The SCARPA Origin rock climbing shoe often comes up in other media's lists of The Best Beginner Climbing Shoes for a reason: it's an affordable and neutral shoe. It's available as both a men's climbing shoe and a women's climbing shoe. It's often on sale.
Still, when we considered the features and how it performed in testing, we liked the Tarantulace better than the Origin as a budget beginner climbing shoe.
Durability is an issue on the SCARPA Origin climbing shoe with reviewers reporting rubber peeling and sewing issues. Several climbers report the Origin runs small, especially in the toe box.
Reviewers also found it lacks the grip of comparable shoes.
So while you may have good luck with the Origin (and we did), we think if you're looking for a budget shoe that will last as you go from a beginner climber to an intermediate climber, you may as well save yourself a little money and get the Tarantulace.
View the Scarpa Origin
Men's
Women's
Scarpa Helix V
Rubber Type: Vibram XS Edge
Lining: Unlined
Upper Material: Suede leather
Closure: Strap (also comes in lace version)
Can be Resoled: Yes
Type: Flat with slight asymetry
Fit: Neutral, slightly wide
What we liked: value for the price, better performance than most budget climbing shoes
What we didn’t like: rubber is less sensitive, stiffer fit
The SCARPA Helix V are a close competitor to the La Sportiva Finales, and provide a bit more performance than many other budget and beginner climbing shoes.
They have sticky Vibram XS Edge rubber, but we preferred the softer, more sensitive design of the La Sportiva Finales. They have a pretty similar—though stiffer—fit compared to the Finales, so if you’re interested in a decently low-cost pair with Vibram rubber but mostly rope climb, these are worth your consideration.
Compare prices of the SCARPA Helix V
Men's
Women's
The SCARPA Helix is a great climbing shoe…just maybe not the best beginner climbing shoe.
We also noticed the SCARPA Helix’s shape made them not ideal for overhanging climbs (where the rockface is at a degree in which you are climbing greater than vertical). While this may not be something you jump into right away as a beginner (or maybe you will!), it’s something to keep in mind if you were hoping to use it as a beginner to intermediate shoe.
After reading customer reviews on sizing, I ordered a half-size up from my street shoe and they fit perfectly! If you are looking for something a little less tight in the toe box, consider sizing up one full size. (Remember, because they have a leather upper, they will stretch!) To help choose how to size your shoe, see our section below on how to fit and size a climbing shoe.
La Sportiva Mythos Eco
Rubber Type: 4 mm La Sportiva ECO rubber (recycled)
Lining: Unlined
Upper Material: ECO Idro-Perwanger biodegradable leather that uses a metal-free eco-tanning process
Closure: Lace-up
Can be Resoled: Yes
Type: Neutral
Fit: Runs large (we sized down 1/2 size)
What we liked: Patented lace system
What we didn’t like: Rubber not as sticky as it should be
The Mythos Eco from La Sportiva is a classic shoe—they’ve been around for over 25 years and continue to top the charts. La Sportiva re-released the Mythos with their own blend of recycled rubber and all the same comfort and technology as the original—which we love!
The Mythos uses a noticeably soft leather upper which makes them comfortable for swelling feet on long or hot days. The Mythos also provides extreme comfort with sturdy arch support not found in all rock climbing shoes. The patented lace-up closure system makes for the best fit possible, and also makes these extra comfortable for crack climbing. These are all features that many beginners appreciate–and more advanced climbers do, too.
The Mythos rubber felt soft and less sticky than other shoes we tested when trying to get a precise toe placement.
We think the good outweighs the bad, but at $179, the Mythos Eco was too pricey to make our winners list–at least for beginners. It might be a great buy as you advance in climbing, but for beginners, we recommend one of our other more affordable winners instead.
Compare prices of the La Sportiva Mythos Eco
Men's
Women's
The Mythos are a legendary climbing shoe model that has been loved for decades. While there are many reasons to get this shoe, we don’t think it’s the best choice for folks just getting into the sport.
While we love the soft leather, it comes with two challenges. First, once the shoes are well-loved, they don’t hold up as well as other shoes. Another challenge with the Mythos is the sizing, which can be a bit finicky. We recommend going down at least one size from your street shoe. I went down to a 37.5 from a 38, since I knew the eco-leather upper would stretch; it still ended up being too big by about one size.
Similarly, our senior editor Brandon Lampley wears a 46 size street shoe and owns Mythos in 42, 42.5, and 43.5. Many climbers find that owning multiple pairs helps them customize their ideal fit for different climbs.
But for your first pair of climbing shoes, you’re likely still figuring out what type of fit you like, making it more difficult to size the Mythos for your ideal comfort and use.
Scarpa Reflex VS
Rubber Type: Vision rubber
Lining: Unlined
Upper Material: Suede/ synthetic
Closure: Straps
Can be Resoled: Yes
Type: Flat, neutral
Fit: Comfort-focused
What we liked: Incredible value for the price
What we didn’t like: rubber isn’t as sticky or responsive as other beginner climbing shoes
The Scarpa Reflex VS are an incredibly affordable climbing shoe with a price that rivals the La Sportiva Tarantulace and La Sportiva Finale. They have a flat design that is comfortable. While the rubber doesn't feel as good as the Vibram XS Edge on the Finales, these are are another option under $100.
View the Scarpa Reflex VS
Men's
Women's
La Sportiva Skwama Lite
Rubber Type: 4 mm FriXion Black half-sole rubber with Delta-Cut design
Lining: Unlined
Upper Material: Microfiber
Closure: Strap
Can be Resoled: Yes
Type: Moderate; medium asymmetry and slight downturn
Fit: Feels wide
What we liked: Value for an intermediate shoe may appeal to strong and fit beginners
What we didn’t like: rubber isn’t as sticky as other intermediate shoes, lack of comfort
The La Sportiva Skwama Lites are marketed as a shoe for climbers looking to "level up their technical game." We considered it as a climbing shoe that would appeal to beginner climbers who already know they are dedicated to the sport and want to advance quickly. It has a slight asymmetry and downturn that true beginners will want to avoid, but we were drawn to them because they are more reasonably priced than many intermediate climbing shoes.
In testing, we found the Skwama Lites are not as comfortable as even other intermediate shoes we tested and the rubber isn't quite as sticky, either. If you are getting into climbing and aim to be intermediate or advanced in a short period, we'd steer you towards the La Sportiva Skwama Vegan, which is similarly aggressive but more comfortable.
View the La Sportiva Skwama Lite
Men's
Women's
When looking for your first pair of climbing shoes, you’ll want to consider upper material, enclosure, shape of the shoe, and outsole thickness. From left to right: La Sportiva Finale with a suede upper, Black Diamond Momentum with a knit upper, and the SCARPA Helix with an suede upper.
What to look for in a Beginner climbing shoe
Whether you're bouldering, top roping, or starting multi-pitch climbs outdoors, there are a few qualities to consider in a climbing shoe: material, outsole sensitivity and flexibility, closures, and shape of the shoe. (We’ll get more into fit and sizing later.)
Upper Material
An “upper” consists of everything above the sole on a shoe. On rock climbing shoes, you’ll find uppers made of either leather (sometimes suede, a softer type of leather) or synthetic materials.
Leather Uppers
Stinky feet? No problem! Just lean more towards a leather shoe. Leather and suede are natural materials that breathe much better than synthetic materials, so the sweat inside your shoe evaporates more easily. With all-leather shoes, such as the Five Ten Moccasym, the color of the shoe will likely bleed onto your skin, particularly as you first start to use them. While sometimes a source of momentary panic—I’d know—I promise it’s harmless.
Leather shoes are available with lined and unlined uppers. Lined leather uppers have an extra piece of fabric between your feet and the shoe. This means that the leather isn’t directly touching your skin. Unlined uppers only have one layer—the leather on the outside is the same fabric touching your skin on the inside. As a climber, it’s important to know whether your shoe is lined or unlined because it impacts sizing. Lined shoes tend to stretch less than unlined. Unlined uppers tend to be more popular with companies and customers across the board for comfort. Most climbers find unlined shoes are easier to break in, too.
Synthetic Uppers
Synthetic uppers end up wicking moisture away from your feet and ultimately absorbing it—which can be a real plus when your feet are sweaty. Companies like Evolv (which makes the Elektra, reviewed above) treat their synthetic uppers with an antimicrobial finish, which helps to kill the bacteria that cause smelly shoes. Note that it only helps—eventually all rock climbing shoes will end up stinky. Baking soda or an antibacterial spray can also help with the smell.
Synthetic uppers are more straightforward when it comes to stretch. They tend to stretch less than leather uppers do—and depending on the fabric used, they may not stretch at all—so sizing is a lot easier.
Another bonus? Synthetic uppers often mean a vegan shoe, so if that’s important to you, a synthetic upper will be your best bet.
A bit thinner rubber on these La Sportiva Mythos shoes makes edging a bit more precise, but will be less durable. Photo by Ruth Kack.
Outsole Sensitivity and Flexibility
At its simplest, the outsole on a climbing shoe is made of rubber—and that rubber sits not only on the underside of your foot, but wraps up the sides of your feet and over your heels and toes as well. While the rubber used on all rock climbing shoe soles is “sticky” — meaning it’s designed to create more friction, so it’s easier to stay connected to the rock or climbing hold — the precise kind of rubber on a particular shoe is often proprietary, or connected to a specific brand.
The sensitivity and flexibility of an outsole are not only dependent on the rubber used but also the rubber sole’s thickness (or thinness). A thick sole is great for durability and longevity, making this a great option for a beginner or intermediate climber. That thickness provides support, so your feet don’t tire as easily. Thick midsoles and sole rubber may feel more supportive or comfortable and may reduce foot fatigue for some beginners. You’ll see similar designs in climbing shoes that are truly designed for intermediate climbers like the La Sportiva Mantra or the La Sportiva Solution Comp bouldering shoes.
The durability of an outsole is important because as a beginner, you’ll be learning climbing footwork, which can be a process best done with a pair of shoes that can hold up to your practice.
However, thicker outsoles reduce your feel and sensitivity of the wall or the rock. They also make the shoe less flexible, which can be good for more rigid terrain.
Thinner soles are great for harder projects because of the high sensitivity but don’t last as long. Most beginners find that a hard sole is best because it offers more support while their feet and ligaments build strength. Like with hiking boots, more support means your feet won’t tire as much.
Type of Closure
Velcro
Velcro and slip-on are the quickest styles of closure. However, with Velcro, the hook and loop will eventually lose their effectiveness. Climbers who prefer bouldering or shorter climbs sometimes prefer shoes with Velcro straps because it is easy to take on and off.
Lace
Laces are great for being able to adjust the exact tightness of the shoe, especially with the La Sportiva Mythos we reviewed. This is especially helpful for beginner climbers, as you can adjust the fit and tightness depending on the performance you’re looking for (comfort vs performance). A downside is that laces wear out, especially if you’re rock climbing outside a lot, but they are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace. Lace systems can also be a pain if you’re frequently putting your shoes on and off.
Most of the shoes we reviewed are offered in either lace-up or Velcro straps, though some models give you a choice between the two. Experiment to try what works best for you!
Shape of the Shoe
There are three different footbed (or “last”) shapes to climbing shoes that correspond to the amount of bend built into the shape of the shoe—neutral, moderate, and aggressive. Neutral shoe lasts have little to no camber (bend) in them. Moderate and aggressive shoe lasts have a distinctive curve in the arch and toe. A moderate shoe has a noticeable curve, but an aggressive shoe will look like a downturned shoe. The best last for you depends on what kind of rock climbing you’ll be doing and your level of climbing ability.
We believe neutral lasts make the best rock climbing shoes for beginners looking to get used to the feeling of being in climbing shoes. (That said, they’re also great for experienced climbers looking for all-day comfort on longer climbs or a more relaxed fit.) Typically, this style not only features a relatively flat profile, but also thick, supportive rubber outsoles. Just like with hiking boots, a supportive shoe means your feet won’t tire as easily. Most of the shoes we tested fall into this category, as this is a feature many people appreciate as a beginner or intermediate climber. However, most advanced climbers will have a pair of shoes like this, too. A neutral shoe will remain a part of most climbers’ quiver, even as they go on to buy and use more aggressive or tighter-fitting shoes.
Moderate lasts have a slight camber in the arch and toe and are great for all-around climbing. Stickier rubber and a thinner sole on moderate shoes help the climber feel more of what’s under their feet. Many intermediate climbers choose this kind of rock shoe.
Aggressive lasts typically have an asymmetric shape, curving towards the big toe, and are very downturned. For the most part, this type of rock shoe is much less comfortable than the other two and is used more for powerful moves on shorter climbs or when bouldering. Since these are not recommended for beginners, we did not test any climbing shoes with aggressive lasts.
Men’s vs Women’s Climbing Shoes
In general, women’s climbing shoes are designed to be narrower and softer than the same men’s version. This is because men, in general, have wider feet and are heavier, thus requiring a stiffer shoe. Some women’s shoes are even built on a women’s-specific last (thank you, La Sportiva!). A better way to think about men's vs. women's climbing shoes is higher-volume and lower-volume fits, regardless of gender label.
We encourage you to find the right shoe for you, regardless of labeling. We know plenty of women who wear men’s rock climbing shoes, and vice versa. With climbing, performance fit is what matters.
There’s a lot to love about the Scarpa Maestro, but the price is enough to turn off many beginners.
Types of climbing shoes
Climbing shoes generally fall into three shapes: neutral, moderate, and aggressive.
Neutral shoes have a flatter profile and are usually the best choice for beginners because they prioritize comfort and versatility. They work well for gym climbing, top-roping, and many outdoor routes.
Moderate shoes have a slight downturn that can provide more precision on steeper or more technical climbs while remaining relatively comfortable. Some beginners may prefer a moderate shoe if they want a little more performance as their skills progress.
Aggressive shoes have a pronounced downturn designed for steep climbing and difficult bouldering. They usually prioritize precision and power over all-day comfort, so most beginners do not need them for their first pair.
No matter what moves you make as a beginner, including the heel hook shown here, choosing a comfortable climbing shoe is your ticket to sticking with climbing. Photo by Abby McMillen.
How To Fit And Size A Climbing Shoe
Climbing shoes should fit snugly and securely without causing significant pain. If they are too loose, your foot can move inside the shoe and reduce precision. If they are painfully tight, you are less likely to keep them on long enough to learn and climb comfortably.
Sizing varies considerably between brands and models, so your street-shoe size should only be a starting point. Upper materials matter too: unlined leather typically stretches more with use than synthetic materials, while lined shoes tend to retain their original fit better. Whenever possible, try several sizes and models rather than assuming you need to size down.
A good beginner fit should have little empty space around the heel or sides of the foot, with your toes reaching the front of the shoe without being painfully compressed. Your toes may be slightly bent depending on the shoe's shape, but numbness, sharp pressure, or persistent pain are signs that the fit is too tight.
Feet can swell during the day and while climbing, so trying shoes on later in the day can give you a better idea of how they will feel during a session. Most climbing shoes are designed to be worn next to the skin, but wearing socks is also fine if that is more comfortable for you. The important thing is to size the shoe based on how you actually plan to wear it.
For beginners, we recommend prioritizing a secure, comfortable fit over an extremely tight performance fit. You can always choose a more specialized or aggressive fit later if your climbing style and goals call for it.
Climbing shoe Care and maintenance tips
Taking proper care of your climbing shoes is essential not only for their longevity but also for your climbing performance and safety. Here are some maintenance and care tips to ensure your beginner rock climbing shoes stay in top shape:
Cleaning your climbing shoes
Regular cleaning: After each climbing session, take a moment to clean your shoes. Brush off dirt, chalk, and grime using a soft brush or a toothbrush. This prevents the buildup of dirt and sweat, which can lead to odors and deterioration of the shoe materials.
Deep cleaning: Periodically, perform a more thorough cleaning. Use a mild detergent and water to clean the shoe's exterior. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly and allow them to dry naturally. Avoid using a washing machine, as it can damage the shoes.
Drying your climbing shoes
Air dry: Never leave your climbing shoes in direct sunlight or near a heat source, such as a radiator or heater. Instead, let them air dry at room temperature. Excessive heat can cause the shoe materials to warp, delaminate, or lose their adhesive properties.
Use shoe deodorizers: To prevent odor buildup, consider using shoe deodorizers or inserts made of cedar or activated charcoal. These help absorb moisture and keep your shoes smelling fresh.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place: When you're not climbing, store your climbing shoes in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving them in your climbing bag or car for extended periods, as extreme temperatures and humidity can degrade the materials.
Keep them uncompressed: Store your shoes with a shoe tree or stuff them with newspaper to help maintain their shape and prevent the toe box from collapsing.
Resoling
Know when to resole: As your climbing shoes wear down, you may need to consider resoling. Signs that it's time for a resole include a thinning outsole, thinning rubber, or reduced performance on the wall.
Professional resoling: It's recommended to have your shoes professionally resoled by a trusted cobbler or climbing shoe resoling service. They can restore the shoe's original performance and extend its lifespan.
Inspect for damage
Regular inspection: Regularly inspect your climbing shoes for any visible damage, such as delamination, loose stitching, or deformed rubber. Damaged shoes can compromise your safety and performance.
Replace damaged shoes: If you notice significant damage, it's safer to retire those shoes and invest in a new pair. Worn shoes can reduce grip, edging, or fit.
How to break in your new climbing shoes
New climbing shoes may feel stiff or unusually snug at first, particularly if they use leather or thicker rubber. They should not, however, require you to tolerate sharp or persistent pain in order to “break them in.”
Start with shorter climbing sessions and easier routes or boulder problems while you get used to the fit. Pay attention to pressure points and hot spots, and adjust the laces or straps if possible. Leather uppers typically stretch and conform to the foot more than synthetic materials, so expect the amount of break-in to vary by shoe.
Give the shoes several climbing sessions to settle in, but do not expect break-in to correct a fundamentally poor fit. If you continue to experience significant pain, numbness, or concentrated pressure, try a different size or model rather than forcing the shoe to work.
FAQ
-
No. Beginner climbing shoes should feel snug and secure, but they should not cause sharp or persistent pain. An extremely tight fit can make it harder to spend enough time climbing to develop good footwork and technique. For a first pair, comfort and a secure fit are usually more useful than an aggressively tight performance fit.
-
Not necessarily. Climbing-shoe sizing varies substantially between brands and models, so there is no universal rule that beginners should size down from their street-shoe size. Start with the manufacturer's sizing guidance and focus on how the shoe actually fits your foot. Leather shoes may stretch with use, while synthetic models generally change less.
-
Yes. Most beginner climbing shoes are versatile enough for both gym and outdoor climbing, including top-roping, sport climbing, and bouldering. As your skills develop, you may eventually want a more specialized shoe for a particular style of climbing, but beginners usually do not need multiple pairs.
-
While it's technically possible to resole climbing shoes yourself, it's recommended to have it done by a professional cobbler or a climbing shoe resoling service. They have the expertise and equipment to ensure a proper and safe resoling job.
-
The number of times climbing shoes can be resoled depends on the shoe's construction and how well they've been cared for. Quality climbing shoes can typically undergo several resoles if maintained properly.
-
No, most beginners should start with a versatile all-around climbing shoe for various styles. As you learn more about what type of climbing you like, you can get specialized shoes. Specialized shoes are designed for specific techniques like crack climbing or slab climbing, so as a beginner, it's more practical to invest in one versatile pair initially and then buy more pairs later.
-
If your climbing shoes stretch more than anticipated, you can try using insoles or inserts to reduce the interior volume slightly. However, keep in mind that significant stretching may indicate a misfit, so consult a climbing shoe expert if the problem persists. You may need to get a different size.
-
Climbing shoes may put some pressure on the big toe or toenails, but they shouldn't cause intense pain or damage. If you experience pain or notice toenail issues, consult with a climbing shoe expert to ensure your shoes fit correctly.
-
It depends on how often you climb, your footwork, the type of rock or climbing surface, and the shoe's construction. The outsole rubber is usually one of the first areas to show significant wear. Rather than following a fixed timeline, watch for thinning rubber, holes, loss of grip, or damage around the toe and rand.
-
No, but you can wear them if you prefer. Climbing shoes are generally designed to be worn directly against the foot, which gives the shoe a close fit and can improve sensitivity. Some climbers prefer thin socks for comfort, warmth, or hygiene. If you plan to climb in socks, wear them when trying shoes on so you choose the right size.
-
Consider resoling when the outsole becomes noticeably thin, especially around the toe, but before you wear through the rand underneath it. Resoling early can extend the life of a well-fitting pair of climbing shoes. Whether a shoe can be resoled, and how many times, depends on its construction and condition.
Climbing is a sport with a lot of ego. We hope that as a beginner, you can choose the gear that is best for you. An example of “edging” here on tiny holds while wearing a pair of 5.10's beginner climbing shoes. Photo courtesy of Ruth Kack
What Makes The Best Beginner Climbing Shoes
It is important to look at the website of each shoe before purchasing, as they will be able to give you the tech specs on each shoe and what they are designed for.
Still, we think for beginner climbers, the best shoe is actually the shoe that feels good on your foot.
There are so many different types of beginner climbers:
People who will be getting after it daily and rock climbing outdoor multi-pitch in a month and those who will climb moderate auto-belay routes at the gym as exercise for many years.
Until you are a rock climber who knows what you want to be doing and are comfortable doing it, the shoe that is best for you is a shoe that is comfortable.
Starting your rock climbing journey with the right shoes is key, but don’t overlook other important gear that will make your climbs safer and more enjoyable. If you’re looking to complete your gear set, be sure to check out our guide on the Best Climbing Rope Bags to find the perfect bag for your needs. Additionally, having the right chalk is essential for maintaining a good grip, so explore our top picks in the Best Climbing Chalk guide. To keep that chalk handy, take a look at our recommendations for the Best Climbing Chalk Bags. And, of course, safety should always come first—make sure to choose a reliable belay device from our Best Belay Devices guide.
We tested climbing shoes for how they worked while edging, meaning placing the shoe on a pronounced edge of rock. An example of “edging” here on tiny holds. Photo courtesy of Ruth Kack.
How We Tested
Over the past five years, we've tested more than 20 pairs of beginner rock climbing shoes. Our main writer is a climbing instructor and former manager of a climbing gym in a major city. Over the course of running the gym, she's worked with hundreds of beginner climbers to understand their needs and common questions.
For this article, we've run these beginner climbing shoes past everyone from true beginner climbers to seasoned climbing guides.
Each pair of shoes we tested for this article was tested on multiple different roped routes over several years of climbing. We also tested the shoes bouldering indoors on problems of varying difficulty. Then, we tested the shoes outdoors on moderate climbs and outside bouldering.
However, to reflect the experience of the majority of beginner rock climbers, we spent most of our testing time in a rock climbing gym. Most beginner climbers will start their journey indoors rather than outdoors. We also recognize that the rubber on each shoe holds up differently on real rock.
- Multiple roped gym routes
- Indoor bouldering at varied difficulty
- Moderate outdoor climbs
- Outdoor bouldering
- Mostly gym-based testing for beginner relevance
- Fit and comfort
- Grip and edging performance
- Support and sensitivity
- Break-in and adjustability
- Durability and room to progress
The author in her happy place at the climbing crag.
About The Author / Why You Should Trust Us
Kate Butler is a rock climbing enthusiast who managed a climbing gym for years in St. Paul, MN. She taught rock climbing classes in top rope, lead climbing, and technique climbing, introducing hundreds of beginners to the sport.
She’s achieved Climbing Wall Instructor (CWI) and Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) certifications. Kate managed an international guiding company conglomerate out of Alaska and worked with Montana Alpine Guides and Montana Whitewater seasonally.
Kate is also the author of Treeline Review’s How to Get Into Ice Climbing guide. She enjoys skiing and ice climbing when the weather turns brisk, or canoeing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and rock climbing throughout the West in the warmer weather.
