10 Best Climbing Shoes 2026 in the United States

The Black Diamond Momentum climbing shoes are designed with comfort and versatility in mind, making them a good choice for beginners or climbers who spend extended periods on vertical routes. Their neutral, flat shape supports all-day wear without causing foot fatigue, which is great if you're looking for shoes that prioritize comfort over aggressive performance. The two Velcro straps make it easy to adjust the fit quickly, so you can get a snug but comfortable feel. A soft flex midsole adds sensitivity, helping you feel the rock beneath your feet, while the updated midsole improves edging ability—important if you want a bit more precision on small footholds. The shoe uses 4.3mm rubber, which balances durability with good grip and is molded to maintain consistent performance.

The materials are fully vegan, including a hemp footbed and breathable knit lining, which offer comfort and keep your feet cooler during climbs. Softer toe rands and updated heel rubber geometry improve fit and heel grip, helping with heel hooks and overall tension. Because these shoes have a neutral fit and softer midsole, they might not be the best for aggressive or highly technical climbing where a downturned shape and stiff sole are preferred. While the durability is good for a softer shoe, they may wear faster if used extensively on rough terrain.

These shoes are well suited for climbers focused on comfort, all-day wear, and vertical climbing, but may not satisfy those looking for high-performance edging or steep, overhung routes.

The La Sportiva Men's Kubo climbing shoes are designed for beginner to intermediate climbers who want a comfortable, all-day shoe that still provides good performance. The fit is customizable thanks to the dual hook-and-loop closure system, allowing you to adjust the tightness easily. The shoe has a subtle asymmetry and a moderate downturn shape, which helps balance comfort with enough precision for various climbing styles, especially when you need to apply power or make technical moves. Made from soft, unlined leather, the upper keeps moisture in check and feels comfortable over long sessions. Inside, the cushioned tongue and cotton lining add to the comfort by managing sweat effectively.

The rubber is a key highlight: Vibram's XS Edge compound offers excellent grip and durability, important for both edging and hooking techniques. The heel and toe areas have added rubber patches for better precision and durability during heel and toe hooks. The semi-stiff midsole provides moderate support, which makes these shoes versatile for different types of climbing without being too stiff or too flexible.

If you are an advanced climber looking for aggressive performance or extremely technical shoes, these may feel a bit soft or less precise. Also, the leather upper can stretch slightly over time, so the fit might loosen with extended use. These shoes represent a solid upgrade from beginner models, providing a good balance between comfort and performance for those advancing in sport or trad climbing.

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.