10 Best Climbing Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Black Diamond Men's Momentum climbing shoes are designed to offer a comfortable and user-friendly experience, especially suited for beginners or those looking for all-around climbing shoes. The engineered knit upper helps with breathability and stretch, making them comfortable for longer wear. The soft flex midsole adds to comfort and also improves sensitivity, which is helpful when feeling the rock surface. Velcro straps provide an easy and secure way to lock down the midfoot, allowing quick adjustments and a snug fit. The durable rubber outsole ensures you get reliable traction on various climbing surfaces.

These shoes have a fairly neutral shape, making them good for general climbing rather than aggressive or steep routes. Because they use synthetic materials, they tend to stretch less over time compared to leather. While they don't have a super stiff sole, which might limit support on very technical climbs, their softer flex makes them ideal for comfort and casual to moderate climbing sessions.

In essence, the Black Diamond Momentum shoes are a solid choice if you want comfortable, breathable climbing shoes that are easy to put on and take off and work well for everyday climbing activities.

The La Sportiva Mens Solution Comp Rock Climbing Shoes are designed specifically for serious climbers who tackle modern bouldering challenges and tough climbs. One of their standout features is the high asymmetry and downturned shape, which enhances precision for technical maneuvers and heel hooking. The combination of laser-cut leather and microfiber uppers minimizes bulk and maximizes comfort, offering a close fit without compromising on sensitivity. This shoe is particularly suited for those looking for a soft feel that allows for better feedback from the rock.

A significant strength of these shoes is the Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber, which is known for its exceptional stickiness and durability, making them great for gripping various surfaces. The patented P3 (Permanent Power Platform) technology ensures that the shoe retains its aggressive shape over time, which can be a big plus for intensive use. The single-strap, hook and loop closure is highly adjustable, allowing climbers to customize the fit for their specific needs, providing both convenience and security.

The aggressive design and downturned fit may not be ideal for beginners or those who prefer comfort over performance, as they can feel restrictive for prolonged wear. Additionally, while the shoe excels in bouldering and sport climbing, it may not be the best choice for trad climbing or multi-pitch routes, where comfort and prolonged wear time are more critical. Lastly, the price point may be higher compared to other models, which could be a consideration for casual climbers.

The La Sportiva Men's Tarantulace climbing shoe is designed as a versatile option for climbers who want a reliable, all-around shoe suitable for various climbing styles—from indoor gym sessions to outdoor adventures. Its lace-up closure system allows for a snug and precise fit, which helps keep the shoe secure on your foot during climbs without being too tight. The shoe uses durable FriXion RS rubber on the sole, known for providing excellent grip on different surfaces while also lasting through extended use.

The leather upper, combined with a lined tongue, manages moisture well, keeping your feet more comfortable during long climbs. The shoe’s shape is not aggressively downturned, making it less specialized for steep or technical routes, but it balances comfort and performance effectively. This makes it especially suitable for climbers who want one dependable pair rather than multiple shoes for different activities.

If you’re looking for top-tier precision or maximum edging ability, this model may feel a bit basic compared to more specialized options. The Tarantulace is a solid choice for beginners or intermediate climbers who value comfort and durability without sacrificing grip and fit.