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10 Best Climbing Shoes For Beginners 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe, Granite Grey

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,274
Fit
Closure System
Shape

Most important from
242 reviews

Fit
Runs extremely small, so it's essential to size up by 1.5 to 2 sizes for the best fit.
Closure System
Easy to put on and take off, making it perfect for young climbers or those new to the sport.
Shape
The Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe molds to your feet over time, reducing toe pain and improving comfort.

The Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe is designed with beginners in mind, making it a solid choice for those who are just starting their climbing journey. One of the key strengths of this shoe is its comfortable padded collar and heel, which can help reduce discomfort during long climbing sessions. The hook-and-loop closure system makes it easy to put on and take off, which is particularly beneficial for new climbers who may struggle with more complex lacing systems. The rubber sole offers decent grip, essential for climbing, although it may not be as durable as higher-end models designed for experienced climbers.

On the downside, the shoe's fit can be a bit tricky; beginners may need to pay close attention to sizing, as the recommended size can vary significantly between different brands. Additionally, the shoe lacks water resistance, so it’s not suitable for wet conditions or outdoor climbs in the rain. The sole stiffness is moderate, which is often ideal for beginners as it provides a good balance between support and flexibility, but it may not offer the precision needed for more challenging climbs as skills progress.

The material used is primarily rubber, which is standard for climbing shoes; however, those looking for advanced features like synthetic materials or specialized rubber types may need to consider other options. The Rave Strap is a budget-friendly choice, making it accessible for beginners who are testing the waters in climbing without breaking the bank. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive shoes, it certainly meets the fundamental needs of novice climbers, providing comfort, ease of use, and reasonable performance on the wall.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,274
Fit
Closure System
Shape

Most important from
242 reviews

Fit
Runs extremely small, so it's essential to size up by 1.5 to 2 sizes for the best fit.
Closure System
Easy to put on and take off, making it perfect for young climbers or those new to the sport.
Shape
The Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe molds to your feet over time, reducing toe pain and improving comfort.
#2

La Sportiva Men's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive/Tiger, 10.5-11

Rating
9.8
Fit
Sole Stiffness
Material

Most important from
494 reviews

Fit
Ideal for those with wider feet, providing a snug yet comfortable fit that can be hard to find in rental shoes.
Sole Stiffness
Perfect for beginners, offering good toe support and not overly flexed, allowing new climbers to learn proper techniques with good footing.
Material
Comfortable and well-made, these shoes seem built to last, making them an excellent choice for extended use.

The La Sportiva Men's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes are a solid choice for beginner climbers seeking versatility. They feature a quick pull lacing system that allows for a snug fit, which is essential for comfort and performance while climbing. This is particularly beneficial for new climbers who may need to adjust the fit throughout their climbing session.

The durable FriXion RS rubber compound provides excellent grip on various surfaces, making it suitable for both indoor gym use and outdoor climbing, which is a significant advantage for those looking to explore different climbing environments without needing multiple pairs of shoes. Comfort is a key highlight, as the lined tongue helps manage moisture, making these shoes more pleasant for extended wear. This makes them quite appealing to beginners who may spend long hours climbing and are still acclimating to wearing climbing shoes.

The shoes are designed to be a jack-of-all-trades, but they might not excel in highly specialized climbing scenarios. More advanced climbers may find the sole stiffness lacking for more technical climbs, as stiffer soles tend to provide better support for precision foot placements. Additionally, the shoe's shape may not be ideal for everyone; beginners with wider feet might feel constricted, leading to discomfort during longer climbs. The La Sportiva Tarantulace shoes are a great starting point for beginners looking for a versatile and comfortable climbing shoe.

Rating
9.8
Fit
Sole Stiffness
Material

Most important from
494 reviews

Fit
Ideal for those with wider feet, providing a snug yet comfortable fit that can be hard to find in rental shoes.
Sole Stiffness
Perfect for beginners, offering good toe support and not overly flexed, allowing new climbers to learn proper techniques with good footing.
Material
Comfortable and well-made, these shoes seem built to last, making them an excellent choice for extended use.
#3

Black Diamond Mens Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes, Black-Anthracite, 10

Rating
9.7
Fit

Most important from
27 reviews

Fit
The fit can be tricky; it's advisable to size up as they run small.

The Black Diamond Mens Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes are a solid choice for beginners. They are designed with a neutral, flat last, making them comfortable for all-day wear. One of the standout features is the Engineered Knit Technology upper, which provides excellent breathability and comfort, essential for long climbing sessions. The two Velcro straps allow for easy adjustability, which is great for getting a secure fit.

However, it's important to note that these shoes run small, so you should order one to one and a half sizes up from your regular shoe size to ensure a proper fit. The 4.3mm rubber sole is durable and offers consistent performance, which is crucial for beginners still developing their footwork. The soft flex midsole adds to the comfort and sensitivity, making it easier to feel the holds you're stepping on.

On the downside, the soft midsole may not provide the same level of support and precision as stiffer options, which could be a consideration for some climbers as they advance. All in all, these shoes are lightweight and well-suited for gym climbing, offering a balance of comfort and performance for those new to the sport.

Rating
9.7
Fit

Most important from
27 reviews

Fit
The fit can be tricky; it's advisable to size up as they run small.

Buying Guide for the Best Climbing Shoes For Beginners

Choosing the right climbing shoes is crucial for beginners as it can significantly impact your climbing experience. The right pair will provide comfort, support, and the right amount of grip to help you progress in your climbing journey. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting climbing shoes for beginners, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
FitFit refers to how snugly the shoe wraps around your foot. A good fit is essential for comfort and performance. Climbing shoes should fit snugly but not painfully tight. For beginners, a slightly looser fit is recommended to ensure comfort during longer climbing sessions. As you gain experience, you may prefer a tighter fit for better precision.
Closure SystemThe closure system of climbing shoes can be lace-up, Velcro, or slip-on. Lace-up shoes offer the most adjustable fit, making them versatile for different foot shapes. Velcro closures are convenient for quick on and off, ideal for gym climbing. Slip-ons provide a sock-like fit and are great for training. Beginners might prefer Velcro for ease of use and adjustability.
Sole StiffnessSole stiffness refers to how rigid or flexible the sole of the shoe is. Stiffer soles provide more support and are better for edging on small footholds, making them suitable for beginners who need extra support. Softer soles offer more sensitivity and are better for smearing on slabs. Beginners should start with a medium to stiff sole for a balance of support and sensitivity.
ShapeThe shape of climbing shoes can be neutral, moderate, or aggressive. Neutral shoes have a flat profile and are the most comfortable, making them ideal for beginners. Moderate shoes have a slight downturn, offering a balance between comfort and performance. Aggressive shoes have a pronounced downturn for advanced climbing techniques. Beginners should opt for neutral shoes to prioritize comfort and ease of use.
MaterialClimbing shoes are made from either leather or synthetic materials. Leather shoes tend to stretch and mold to your foot over time, providing a custom fit. Synthetic shoes offer less stretch and maintain their shape longer. Beginners might prefer leather for the comfort and custom fit, but synthetic shoes are also a good choice for their durability and consistent fit.
Rubber TypeThe type of rubber used on the sole affects the shoe's grip and durability. Softer rubber provides better grip but wears out faster, while harder rubber is more durable but offers less grip. Beginners should look for a balance between grip and durability, opting for a medium-soft rubber that provides good traction without wearing out too quickly.

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