Rock climbing has become highly popular and for good reasons. The benefits of rock climbing are endless. You can knock out cardio and strength training while increasing flexibility and decreasing stress all in one workout. It sounds like the best of both worlds… if you’re prepared. Choosing the best climbing shoes for beginners can be confusing, but it doesn’t have to be!
Whether you climb in the gym or outdoors, a good pair of shoes should be the first stop on your climbing journey. Having your own shoes will save you from having to rent them from a gym or outdoors shop. You will also be thankful for a personalized fit to help you stay comfortable and supported as you explore your new hobby.
The best climbing shoes for beginners don’t have to be top of the line. You can look into more advanced wear as your experience grows. Beginners’ shoes should be comfortable and durable enough for you to climb as long as you wish. Quality rock climbing shoes include a high-quality rubber sole, a supportive heel cup, and a tough toe box. We have compiled a list of the top 5 climbing shoes for beginners to get you started.
#1 Butora Endeavor
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The Butora Endeavor isn’t your typical climbing shoes. This shoe is great for all types of climbing with no compromise to support and comfort. They are especially great if you have wide feet and will keep you comfortable hours into your climb. The Endeavors are durable and should hold up for as long as you need them!
The manufacturer of the Endeavor suggests that you size up in this model since they form so nicely to your feet. They’re also made of hemp which is an all-natural material that cuts down on odor and gives back to the planet!
FEATURES
- Asymmetrical toe shape
- Triple Fork Webbing for a customized fit
- Upper made with hybrid material for shape and breathability
- Two-piece tongue
- Moisture-wicking hemp lining
- Great for wide feet
- Perfect for verticle or slab climbs
- Comfortable enough for long haul climbs
- Hemp lining decreases smell
- Weak rubber toe box
- Velcro tends to wear out
- Sized small
#2 La Sportiva
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The La Sportive climbing shoe is legendary among climbers due to its super sticky sole and lace-up style. This shoe performs well in all environments and has the durability to last. The tension heel rand matches well with the power hinge to support you through the toughest climbs. If you’re looking for beginner endurance climbing shoes, the La Sportiva might be right for you.
They do take some breaking in and tend to fit snuggly for the first two weeks, depending on how often you climb. The heel can be a bit painful to break in, but once you’ve moved past that, these shoes are supportive and comfortable. They work well for bouldering and sports climbing. They are a great beginner option for those testing different types of climbing.
FEATURES
- Flexible laces to allow movement when tied
- Very sticky soles
- Unlined leather for a comfortable fit
- Powerhinge and tension heel band for endurance
- Amazing grip due to 5mm Vibram XS Edge sticky rubber outsole
- Quality leather material
- Powerhinge allows for high-end edging performance
- Comfortable enough for long climbing sessions
- Soles need breaking in to reach maximum grip
- Heel cup can be uncomfortable to break-in
- Sizing runs small
#3 SCARPA Origin
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The SCARPA Origin makes the list of best climbing shoes for beginners due to the Vision Rubber Compound. It gives the soul tough gripping power and durability. These shoes come with a hook and loop closure that keep your feet properly positioned. The grip is comparable to Butora Endeavor, if not less sticky.
The Origin is great for beginner climbers because of the luxury padding of the leather upper. This will help new climbers transition into the hobby with minimal discomfort. These shoes are also one of the most affordable on the list. They work well for testing your boundaries and advancing your skills on different terrain.
FEATURES
- Great for gym use
- Very comfortable due to the leather upper
- Hook and loop closure keeps feet positioned well
- Very affordable
- Comfortable enough for endurance climbing
- Quick to break-in
- Perfect for indoor climbing
- Less grip than other shoes on the list
- A tendency to wear out quickly
- Less suited for outdoor use
#4 Black Diamond Momentum
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These Black Diamond Momentum climbing shoes are around the same price as the SCARPA Origin shoe. The big difference lies with the breathability of the Black Diamonds. They have Engineered Knit Technology that allows cold air to circulate within the shoes. They are great in warm, humid climates.
The velcro straps secure in different directions to allow for the greatest support and flexibility. A unique rubber sole allows the shoes to mold to the rock and provides an excellent grip for a beginner model. This shoe has soft flex midsoles that give the right amount of sensitivity without being uncomfortable.
FEATURES
- Very comfortable to allow for all-day climbing
- Engineered Knit Technology creates excellent breathability
- Velcro closure provides a supportive fit
- Molded rubber is great grip and traction
- Great for the gym
- Sole remains stiff even after extensive use
- Sticky and great for smearing
- Snug fit prevents blisters
- Toe box tends to wear down quickly
- Sized small
- Very deep heel cup not suited for everyone
#5 Evolve Defy
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The Evolve Defy shoes are the most affordable shoe on the list without compromising on quality. The shoes feature synthetic material. They have an anti-microbial mesh to decrease the chance of odor, but this is less effective than advertised. The design has improved from the 2017 version with a more anatomical fit and new design.
The soles have a decent grip, and the shoe is very durable for the price point. They are comfortable enough to climb for extended amounts of time, but still technical enough to push your boundaries. They’re easy to break in, but watch out for the sizing because they run small.
FEATURES
- Most affordable shoe on the list
- Anti-microbial mesh to eliminate odor
- Anatomical fit
- Velcro closure provides good support
- Comfortable enough for endurance climbing
- Very durable soles
- Easy to break-in
- Excellent grip
- Sizing runs very small
- Synthetic material cause shoes to smell
What to Consider When Purchasing Beginner Climbing Shoes
Choosing the best climbing shoes for beginners is the first step to creating a climbing habit to last a lifetime. Think of your climbing shoes as the foundation of your climbing career. There are several things to consider when choosing your first pair.
Fit is fundamental to the right shoe. Every foot is different, and not every fit will be right for everyone. Different brands have different fits, so understand the fit before purchasing the shoes. Remember that the shoe should fit snuggly, but should never pinch to the point of discomfort.
Different closure systems offer different benefits and drawbacks. For example, lace-up climbing shoes can tighten according to preference but are harder to remove. Velcro is easy to remove but doesn’t provide a customizable fit. Some prefer velcro for the gym and lace-up shoes for outdoor climbing.
Climbing shoes come with a variety of different rubber, but most beginner’s shoes have thicker soles that allow for durability. Thicker soles are less sensitive but last longer. Keep in mind that any climbing shoe will eventually need to be replaced or re-soled.
Finding the best climbing shoes for beginners may seem overwhelming. Know that the right shoe will provide the best chance at keeping your climbing routine! Don’t be afraid to test out as many shoes as you need before committing.