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 SCARPA Drago Rock Climbing Shoes are tailored for sport climbing and bouldering, offering specialized performance for those who need sensitivity and precision on technical climbs. The aggressive downturn and thin midsole are beneficial for steep sport climbs, and the Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber sole provides excellent grip and stiffness, which is essential for securing footholds on challenging surfaces. The use of microfiber material in the upper part of the shoe minimizes stretching, ensuring a consistent fit over time.

Additionally, the PCB Active Rand enhances sensitivity and precision by reducing layers around the foot, making it easier to feel and adjust to slick footholds. The closure system of these shoes is slip-on, which may be convenient for quick adjustments but might lack the customization of a lace-up system. The synthetic material ensures minimal stretching, so it’s crucial to get a snug fit from the start, using the provided sizing advice. However, those with wider feet might find the fit less accommodating.

These shoes are machine washable, making maintenance straightforward. They are well-suited for climbers who prioritize sensitivity and precision in their footwear and are particularly beneficial for those tackling steep and technical climbs.

The La Sportiva Skwama is a performance climbing shoe that blends the snug fit of a hook-and-loop closure with the comfort of a slipper-style design. This makes it a good choice for climbers who want precision without sacrificing comfort. Its microfiber and leather build ensures durability and breathability, while the unlined interior helps with a close fit. The shoe features a down-turned shape supported by the P3 System, which helps maintain power on small footholds and steep routes.

The split-sole design allows some flexibility, reducing sole deformation when you put weight on edges. The sole is made of 4mm Vibram XS Grip2 rubber, known for excellent grip and adaptability, important for technical climbs. Additionally, the sticky rubber toe patch and a rubber toe cap improve performance on toe hooks and smearing. The patented S-Heel design enhances heel hooking and fit. The single hook-and-loop closure keeps the shoe secure and easy to put on or take off, while heel pull-tabs assist with this and can be used to clip the shoes to a harness or bag.

Despite its many advantages, the shoe can feel quite aggressive and may take some getting used to for beginners or those who prefer a more relaxed fit. Also, as it is unlined, it might stretch slightly over time. The Skwama is well-suited for climbers looking for a precise, high-performance shoe that performs well on a variety of climbing styles, especially steep or technical routes.