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10 Best Kids Climbing Shoes 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 by1,288
Fit
Shape
Size Adjustability

Most important from
280 reviews

Fit
"These are the closest to 'true to size' climbing shoes I've ever found. They still run a bit on the small side but not nearly as bad as others."
Shape
"They're also pretty comfortable for a climbing shoe - I don't feel like my toes are as cramped."
Size Adjustability
"These beginner shoes are amazing! At the beginning I would fold and fold these shoes so I can stretch them out a bit since my pinky was getting squished but that's what I wanted, slightly tight."

The Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe in Granite Grey offers a combination of features suitable for young climbers. One of its strengths is the rubber sole, which provides good traction and grip, essential for climbing activities. The shoe uses a Hook & Loop closure type, which is easy for kids to manage on their own. Additionally, the padded collar and heel increase comfort, which is a significant advantage for longer climbing sessions or for kids who are new to the sport.

However, it is important to note that the shoe is not water-resistant, which might be a drawback if your child climbs in moist or wet conditions. The outer material and sole are made of rubber, making it durable for climbing but potentially less breathable. The shoe is also designed with a focus on a snug fit, so referring to the sizing chart is crucial to ensure the right size. The lack of adjustable sizing can be a downside, as kids' feet grow quickly, and they might outgrow the shoes sooner than expected.

The shape and design seem to be more aligned towards men's footwear, which might not be ideal for all kids. In conclusion, the Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe is a solid choice for kids' climbing activities, particularly for those who value comfort and ease of use. However, it’s worth considering its limitations, especially regarding water resistance and size adjustability.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,288
Fit
Shape
Size Adjustability

Most important from
280 reviews

Fit
"These are the closest to 'true to size' climbing shoes I've ever found. They still run a bit on the small side but not nearly as bad as others."
Shape
"They're also pretty comfortable for a climbing shoe - I don't feel like my toes are as cramped."
Size Adjustability
"These beginner shoes are amazing! At the beginning I would fold and fold these shoes so I can stretch them out a bit since my pinky was getting squished but that's what I wanted, slightly tight."
#2

L-RUN Toddler Sock Shoes Kids Barefoot Shoes Outdoor Rock Climbing Shoes Boys Pink M US 4 Big Kid=EU36

Rating
9.8
Fit
Material
Sole Type

Most important from
848 reviews

Fit
These shoes fit great and offer excellent traction for hiking and various activities.
Material
Easy to wash and hold up well through several delicate cycles in the washing machine.
Sole Type
Bright colors and good grip make these shoes durable even in rough wave pools.

The L-RUN Toddler Sock Shoes are a suitable option for kids who enjoy outdoor activities including rock climbing. They are made from breathable Lycra fabric, which makes them soft and comfortable for kids to wear over extended periods.

The easy slip-on design with a quickly adjustable buckle and bungee ensures that kids can put them on and take them off without much hassle. The cushioned insole with perforation helps absorb shock and reduce fatigue in the feet and legs, making these shoes good for active children.

The anti-skid rubber outsole with drainage holes is another thoughtful feature, helping to keep the shoes dry and comfortable, which is particularly useful for activities around water. These shoes seem versatile for various activities but may not be the best fit for rigorous climbing. They are likely best suited for casual climbing and other outdoor play, especially in wet environments.

Rating
9.8
Fit
Material
Sole Type

Most important from
848 reviews

Fit
These shoes fit great and offer excellent traction for hiking and various activities.
Material
Easy to wash and hold up well through several delicate cycles in the washing machine.
Sole Type
Bright colors and good grip make these shoes durable even in rough wave pools.
#3

EVOLV Venga Kids’ Rock Climbing Shoe for Bouldering & Indoor Climbing - Blue/Neon Lime - 4

Rating
9.6
Fit
Closure Type
Size Adjustability

Most important from
33 reviews

Fit
The shoe is comfortable and easy for kids to put on and take off, making it ideal for gym climbing sessions.
Closure Type
The Velcro strap system provides a secure fit while allowing children to manage the shoes independently.
Size Adjustability
Sizing can be tricky, with some finding the shoes unexpectedly snug and requiring careful selection to accommodate growth.

The Evolv Venga Kids' Rock Climbing Shoe is designed with growing feet in mind, offering notable size adjustability that can expand up to two full sizes. This feature is especially helpful for parents looking for a climbing shoe that lasts through rapid foot growth. The hook-and-loop closure makes it easy for kids to put on and take off the shoes independently, promoting convenience and a secure fit.

Made from polyester with a 3.5 mm Trax rubber sole, the shoe provides good grip and durability on indoor climbing walls or bouldering surfaces. Evolv’s sizing guidance is thoughtful, offering three fit categories (comfort, performance, and max performance) tailored to different levels of climbing skill and foot shape, which helps ensure a better fit. The shoe’s PSR rating of 3 indicates it is highly sensitive, making it suitable for beginners or children focusing on smearing and volume techniques rather than aggressive edging.

The shoe isn’t water resistant, so it’s best for indoor climbing or dry conditions. Its medium volume fit caters to average foot shapes, so children with very narrow or wide feet might need to check fit carefully. The Evolv Venga successfully balances comfort, adjustability, and performance for kids starting in climbing, with durability and grip that support developing skills.

Rating
9.6
Fit
Closure Type
Size Adjustability

Most important from
33 reviews

Fit
The shoe is comfortable and easy for kids to put on and take off, making it ideal for gym climbing sessions.
Closure Type
The Velcro strap system provides a secure fit while allowing children to manage the shoes independently.
Size Adjustability
Sizing can be tricky, with some finding the shoes unexpectedly snug and requiring careful selection to accommodate growth.

Buying Guide for the Best Kids Climbing Shoes

Choosing the right climbing shoes for kids is crucial for their comfort, safety, and enjoyment of the sport. Kids' climbing shoes should provide a good balance between performance and comfort, allowing young climbers to develop their skills without causing discomfort or injury. When selecting climbing shoes for kids, consider the following key specifications to ensure you make the best choice for your child's needs.
FitFit is the most important aspect of climbing shoes. A proper fit ensures that the shoes provide the necessary support and grip without causing pain. Climbing shoes should fit snugly but not too tight. For beginners, a slightly looser fit can be more comfortable, while more advanced climbers might prefer a tighter fit for better precision. Always have your child try on the shoes and walk around to ensure they feel comfortable.
Closure TypeClimbing shoes come with different closure types, including Velcro, laces, and slip-ons. Velcro closures are easy for kids to put on and take off by themselves, making them a popular choice. Laces offer a more customizable fit but can be more challenging for younger children to manage. Slip-ons are convenient but may not provide as secure a fit as Velcro or laces. Consider your child's age and ability to handle the closures when making your choice.
MaterialClimbing shoes are typically made from leather or synthetic materials. Leather shoes tend to stretch and mold to the foot over time, providing a custom fit. Synthetic shoes are less likely to stretch and often maintain their shape better. If your child is still growing, synthetic shoes might be a better option as they will maintain their fit longer. Consider the material based on how often your child climbs and how quickly they are growing.
Sole TypeThe sole of a climbing shoe affects its grip and durability. Softer soles provide better grip and sensitivity, making them ideal for indoor climbing and bouldering. Harder soles are more durable and better suited for outdoor climbing on rough surfaces. For beginners, a medium-stiff sole can offer a good balance between grip and durability. Think about where your child will be climbing most often when choosing the sole type.
ShapeClimbing shoes come in different shapes, including neutral, moderate, and aggressive. Neutral shoes have a flat profile and are the most comfortable, making them ideal for beginners and all-day wear. Moderate shoes have a slight downturn, offering better performance for more technical climbs. Aggressive shoes have a pronounced downturn and are designed for advanced climbers tackling challenging routes. Choose the shape based on your child's climbing experience and the type of climbing they will be doing.
Size AdjustabilitySome kids' climbing shoes come with features that allow for size adjustability, such as removable insoles or adjustable straps. These features can be beneficial as they allow the shoes to grow with your child, extending their usability. If your child is still growing rapidly, look for shoes with these adjustability features to get more use out of them.

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