8 Best Kids Climbing Shoes 2025 in the United States

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.

The La Sportiva Kids Stickit Rock Climbing Shoe is designed with simplicity and function in mind for young climbers. One of its key strengths is its easy on and off feature, thanks to its adjustable looping system around the top of the foot and heel. This makes it suitable for kids of varying ages and ensures a snug but comfortable fit.

Made with rugged, breathable leather, these shoes offer all-day comfort, whether your child is climbing indoors or bouldering outside. The grippy FriXion rubber sole ensures good traction on both plastic and rock surfaces, making it versatile for different climbing environments.

The straightforward design is beneficial for comfort and convenience, though it may not provide the highly technical features more advanced climbers look for. The fit is crucial; it should be tight but not painful, so referring to the La Sportiva size chart is essential. Despite being well-made, some users might find the price point a bit high for kids' climbing shoes, and the leather material may require more maintenance than synthetic options. In conclusion, the La Sportiva Kids Stickit Rock Climbing Shoe is an excellent choice for beginner to intermediate young climbers looking for comfort and adjustability.

The SCARPA Kids' Drago climbing shoes are designed specifically for young climbers ready to tackle challenging gym climbs and bouldering problems. They offer a snug yet comfortable fit thanks to soft microfiber uppers that minimize stretching, helping the shoe maintain its shape as kids grow. The hook & loop closure makes it easy for children to put on and adjust the shoes without hassle.

The shoes feature a moderately downturned shape and a thin midsole, providing excellent sensitivity—a big plus for feeling the climbing surface and making precise foot placements. The Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber sole provides outstanding stickiness and stiffness, suitable for various rock types and climbing styles. Additionally, the softer M50 rubber on the toe and heel areas enhances grip for advanced moves like heel hooks.

These shoes come in a limited size range (roughly US kids’ size 4-4.5), making them best suited for younger kids or those with smaller feet. They successfully balance technical climbing needs with kid-friendly comfort, making them a strong choice for active young climbers seeking both performance and comfort.