9 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 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.

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.