Best_Beginner_Climbing_Shoes

Climbing is one of the most thrilling sports that can be practiced all year round due to the indoor and outdoor locations. But if you’re a beginner climber, you can’t rely only on innate skill. You will also need a pair of the best beginner climbing shoes to help you keep a strong foothold.  

Many beginners are eager to start heading higher up, but before you can begin your journey, you’ll need to take the time to find a quality pair of rock climbing shoes for beginners. A pair of top-rated climbing shoes for beginners will provide you with the stability and foundation you need to get started. But when you’re ready to stop renting and invest in your pair of shoes, you may feel a little lost in your search. 

We have dedicated the time to make this list exhaustive, and have included a comprehensive buying guide so that you can spend less time shopping and more time on the wall. With our guide, you’ll have everything you need to find a quality pair of beginner climbing shoes. 

1

OUR TOP PICK

Black Diamond Men’s Beginner Climbing Shoes

Black Diamond Men’s Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

Constructed with a stiffer flex and tighter fit, the Black Diamond Men’s Momentum Lace Beginner Climbing Shoes give you the precision you need to maintain your grip in every foothold. The laces also provide your foot with a snug fit, while not restricting their movement too much. A neutral asymmetrical design also ensures that these climbing shoes for beginners are better balanced for newbies who are just learning their techniques. 

Synthetic materials are also featured throughout the construction of these beginner rock climbing shoes, which makes them more durable and longer-lasting. The soles and toe tip are made of NeoFriction rubber, which is hardened for better edging. The flat bottom design is also more comfortable to use while you climb and helps give your foot the support it needs as you shift or maneuver your body weight.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • More precise with a stiffer flex and tighter fit
  • Laces are more secure and snug
  • Neutral asymmetrical design for better balance
  • Synthetic construction is more durable and longer-lasting
  • Supports your foot as you climb
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Synthetic
Weight: 1.99 pounds
Closure: Lace
Midsole: Medium flex
Rubber: NeoFriction
Sizes: Men’s 5-15
Colors: Ash, Midnight, or Slate

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Climb X Rave Strap Beginner Climbing Shoes

Climb X Rave Strap Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

Comfort is a key feature of the Climb X Rave Strap Beginner Climbing Shoes, which have a padded collar and heel to provide your feet with additional cushioning while you climb. The extra padding provides all-around comfort, which means that beginners are less likely to have to deal with skin irritation or blisters. For durability, these rock climbing shoes for beginners have a double stitch construction and a one-piece binding. 

A polypropylene midsole is more stable and has more strength to manage your weight, while still providing you with a decent flex. Multiple pull tabs and the Velcro straps also make these perfect for beginners who are just getting started finding the right fit. You should also keep in mind that these shoes have been pre-downsized, so new climbers should order a pair that is around their regular shoe size, or your toes will be too cramped.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • More comfortable with a padded collar and heel
  • No skin irritation or blisters
  • Decent flex with a stable polypropylene midsole
  • Multiple pull tabs and Velcro straps make the shoes easy to put on
  • Come pre-downsized
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Synthetic
Closure: Velcro
Midsole: Polypropylene
Sizes: 6-11.5
Colors: Red, Blue, or Grey

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3

BEST VALUE

La Sportiva Men’s Beginner Climbing Shoes

La Sportiva Men’s Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

A fast lacing system makes the La Sportiva Men’s TarantuLace Performance Beginner Climbing Shoes the easiest design to use on the market. The special TarantuLaces use a quick pull method to precisely tighten the shoe snugly around your foot. The laces also ensure that the shoes will securely stay on your feet and provide reliable support. The FriXion RS rubber soles are extra sticky for an excellent grip on the edges. 

The low-asymmetry design also gives you more sensitivity to feel the rocks while you climb. The unlined leather upper is soft and pliable, but strong so that it is long-lasting. A lined tongue helps manage moisture and increases the breathability of these men’s beginner climbing shoes. A LapsoFlex midsole also ensures that these shoes can be used both indoors and outdoors, which makes them more versatile and useful for various climbing situations.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • Fast lace system makes these the easiest to use
  • The quick pull lacing method is more precise
  • FriXion RS rubber soles are extra sticky for an excellent grip
  • Breathable to help manage moisture
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Materials: Leather, synthetic
Weight: 2.7 pounds
Closure: TarantuLace
Midsole: LaspoFlex
Rubber: FriXion RS
Sizes: Men’s 4.5-13.5
Colors: Black/Poppy, Flame, or Grey

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4

La Sportiva Mythos Men’s Beginner Climbing Shoes

La Sportiva Mythos Men’s Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

Versatility is a key feature of the La Sportiva Mythos Men’s Beginner Climbing Shoes, which have a rugged build that was constructed for indoor and outdoor use. These climbing shoes for beginners are made with high-quality materials like a LaspoFlex midsole, Vibram XS Grip, and FriXion RS rubber soles. All of these features combined give you great sensitivity while keeping your foot comfortable. The unique toe lacing helps adapt to the shape of your foot and gives you all-day-long comfort. 

The soft leather upper ensures that your feet feel no pain and has a dry feature that helps control the buildup of moisture. A lightweight tongue is also breathable to stop your feet from becoming uncomfortable as you climb. With no lining, there is no excess material to cause any irritation or rubbing. Finally, the low profile and rounded toe will help you find solid footholds on artificial and natural rock.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • Versatile for use indoors or outdoors
  • Made with high-quality materials
  • More sensitive without sacrificing comfort
  • Breathable to manage sweat and moisture
  • Low profile and rounded toe are easier for beginners to use
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Materials: Leather, synthetic
Weight: 2.06 pounds
Closure: To the Toe Laces
Midsole: LaspoFlex
Rubber: FriXion RS
Sizes: Men’s 2.5-13.5 US
Colors: Terra or Taupe

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5

Evolv Men’s Defy Beginner Climbing Shoes

Evolv Men’s Defy Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

The Evolv Men’s Defy Beginner Climbing Shoes have a more anatomical fit to make them conform to the shape of your feet for extended comfort. The new design gives the shoes a fresh look but guarantees quality performance. The Synthratek VX upper material is stiff and has a secure fit, but has a slight flex, which is ideal for beginners. The MX-P midsole is also sensitive so that you can learn how to feel the rocks beneath your toes. 

However, a thicker front toe area using a VTR rand also gives you protection and strength to grip footholds. The TRAX high friction rubber covers the entire outsole of the shoe and has a slight arch to support your foot. An antimicrobial mesh lines the shoes, which makes them more hygienic and less likely to develop foul odors. Finally, the large Velcro straps are quick and easy to use so that you can head out to the gym or rock fast.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • Anatomical fit provides extended comfort
  • Sensitive but stiff for beginners
  • Thicker front toe area for protection and strength
  • Antimicrobial mesh eliminates foul odors
  • Velcro straps are quick and easy to use
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Synthetic
Weight: 5 pounds
Closure: Velcro
Midsole: MX-P
Rubber: TRAX high friction
Sizes: Men’s 4-14
Colors: Black/Sulphur or Charcoal

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6

La Sportiva Men’s Low Top Beginner Climbing Shoes

La Sportiva Men’s Low Top Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

A suede leather upper gives the La Sportiva Men’s Low Top Beginner Climbing Shoes the ideal balance of structure and stretch. The fabric is strong enough to support your foot in difficult climbs, but it also conforms to the shape of your foot and stretches as you move. Leather is also used to construct the toe-box so that you have better protection and toeing hold. An antiperspirant tongue helps manage sweat and reduces wrinkles so that your shoes stay looking new for longer. 

Two Velcro straps pull in different directions to secure the shoe on your foot, which also provides better support. The Laspoflex midsole balances cushioning with sensitivity so that you get the perfect performance. The FriXion RS rubber that covers the outsole also gives your feet a better grip on all types of surfaces, which means that you can climb rock or plastic with ease.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • Suede upper leather balances structure and stretch
  • Leather in the toe-box for more protection
  • Two Velcro straps secure your feet and provide support
  • Cushioned and sensitive
  • Better grip on all types of surfaces
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Materials: Leather, synthetic
Weight: 5 pounds
Closure: Velcro
Midsole: Laspoflex
Rubber: FriXion RS
Sizes: Men’s 2.5-13
Colors: 4 options

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7

Five Ten Men’s Rogue VCS Beginner Climbing Shoes

Five Ten Men’s Rogue VCS Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

The Five Ten Men’s Rogue VCS Beginner Climbing Shoes have a lightweight but tough design that gives you the flexibility and fit you need to confidently conquer your climb. The soft suede material that covers your feet prevents any cuts or scrapes but also has the freedom of movement to bend and twist with your toes. With these features and the Stealth C4 rubber sole, beginners will be able to find precise footing and advance their skills. 

A reinforced arch is also built into the midsole for a stronger structure. The integrity of the beginner climbing shoe is also supported by the dual hook and loop closure, which uses Velcro to fasten itself securely. A heel slingshot makes it easy to pull the shoes on and can also be used to carry the shoes to the gym or your climbing location.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • Lightweight and tough design
  • Provides flexibility and fit
  • Stealth C4 rubber sole support precise footing
  • Reinforced arch has a stronger structure
  • Heel slingshot can be used to carry shoes
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Leather
Weight: 7.9 ounces
Closure: Velcro
Rubber: C4 Stealth
Sizes: Men’s 5.5-12.5
Color: Neon Blue/Charcoal

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8

Climb X Gear Red Point Beginner Climbing Shoes

Climb X Gear Red Point Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

An odorless organic hemp footbed that is incorporated into the design of the Climb X Gear Red Point Beginner Climbing Shoes ensures that your feet stay fresh on every climb. The unique footbed helps to stop odors from sweat and keeps your feet more comfortable for a full day on the rocks. The footbed also has a contoured arch, which provides a tight fit for security. Padding is also featured in the footbed and ankle cuff, which keeps your feet comfy for longer. 

The fabric and leather material covers the exterior of the shoe and provides your foot with protection while you climb. The rubber outsole also incorporates a 3D molded heel cup, which ensures that your foot never slips out as you are moving from foothold to foothold. With two strong Velcro straps and multiple pull tabs, these shoes can also be adjusted for the perfect fit.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • Odorless organic hemp footbed keeps feet feeling fresh
  • Comfortable for a full day of climbing
  • The contoured arch has a tighter fit for security
  • Padding to keep your feet happy
  • Adjustable fit with Velcro straps
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Leather
Closure: Velcro
Sizes: 7.5-11.5 
Color: Red/Blue

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9

Evolv Axion Beginner Climbing Shoes

Evolv Axion Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

A wider width makes the Evolv Axion Beginner Climbing Shoes unisex and versatile for both male and female climbers. With more room, users with wider feet don’t have to struggle to shove their feet into a narrow shoe. Instead, these shoes put the comfort of every climber first. The tough laces can also help you adjust the fit to find one that is ideal for your climbing situation, and hold up well over time. That said, the shoes do come in smaller sizes and you should consider sizing up if you do not want a restrictive fit.

Additionally, the strong materials support your feet as they wrap completely around the heel and toe to provide full protection. The flat rubber outer sole is stiffer for more precise performance and features noarch. With a round toe, you can easily feel through the shoe to grip your footholds. Finally, the durable stitching ensures that these shoes will last you throughout countless climbs on plastic or rock.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • Wider width for a unisex design
  • Strong materials wrap entirely around the shoe
  • The round toe is more sensitive
  • Durable stitching is long-lasting
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Suede
Closure: Laces
Sizes: 4.5-9
Color: Blue/Green

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10

FiveTen Men’s Anasazi Moccasym Beginner Climbing Shoes

FiveTen Men’s Anasazi Moccasym Beginner Climbing Shoes


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Summary

Combining the comfort of moccasins into a climbing shoe, the FiveTen Men’s Anasazi Moccasym Beginner Climbing Shoes take a traditional design and make it functional for maneuvering rock crevices and faces. The moccasin design is more comfortable with less bulk to hinder your natural movement and it keeps the shoe lightweight. With a side exit heel seam, you can easily slip in and out of the moccasins. 

When you are using them to climb, the slingshot heel keeps your foot firmly in place so that you can confidently navigate your climb. Triple pull tabs will also help you put on your toes and adjust the placement to make it completely comfortable. The rubber sole is durable and gives you a strong trip for bouldering. Finally, these shoes are resoleable, which means that with a minor repair you can use them forever.

  • What Makes These Beginner Climbing Shoes Stand Out
  • Comfortable moccasin design is made functional for climbing
  • Less bulk means better movement
  • Side exit heel seam is easy to use
  • Triple pull tabs
  • Resoleable for endless use
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Material: Leather
Weight: 1.48 pounds
Rubber: Stealth
Sizes: Men’s 8-14
Color: Red/Black

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How To Choose A Pair Of Beginner Climbing Shoes – Buying Guide

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Material

The best beginner climbing shoes will be made with a high-quality material because it provides your feet with more support and protection, while also being more comfortable. But the two most common types of materials used in the construction of a beginner climbing shoe are either leather or synthetic. 

Leather rock climbing shoes for beginners will often stretch over time, which means that they become looser and more comfortable. The leather can also conform to your foot shape over time, which means that they often provide a customized feel to the climber. Leather is also more durable than synthetics, and can easily protect your foot from accidents. 

Related Review: Cheap Climbing Shoes

Synthetic materials are the opposite of leather and they will generally not stretch. This means that you don’t have to worry as much about sizing because they won’t change, but they can be more uncomfortable. You will need to find the correct size from the beginning, or your feet won’t fit inside the shoe. Synthetic material is also sometimes not as breathable, which is uncomfortable for some climbers. 

Finally, some climbing shoes for beginners are made of a combination of leather and synthetic materials. This means that you can have the best qualities of both materials in a hybrid shoe that has an excellent performance.

Related Post: Break In Climbing Shoes

Closure System

Many women’s and men’s beginner climbing shoes will feature a Velcro closure because it is easier to use. The Velcro straps can be pulled snug across your foot and make it faster to put on or take off your shoes. However, some bouldering shoes for beginners use laces to secure the shoes instead of Velcro. Laces are sturdy and they are just as secure as leather, but they often provide more personalized adjustability to the climber. Due to the laces running the length of the shoe, the climber can customize the shoe’s fit more precisely, which makes it more comfortable. 

Related Review: Crack Climbing Shoes

Ultimately, it will be up to the climber to decide which closure system they wish to use when they climb. Both systems are secure, but one provides speed and the other customization. Beginner climbing shoe reviews may help you make your choice as reviewers will often comment on the comfort of the closure system.

Size

The best climbing shoes for beginners will have a snug fit, which often means that they will feel tight on your foot. But finding the correct size can be difficult because the shoes shouldn’t be so tight that they are uncomfortable or cause pain. 

You should keep in mind that climbing shoes for beginners are often sized smaller to accommodate a tight fit, which is important. Beginner climbing shoe reviews and the brand-provided size chart should help you find the best fit. 

Related Post: Climbing Shoe Sizing

Sole

The sole needs to be strong, but also slightly flexible. This will ensure that your foot has the stability and support it needs but is not restricted in its movement. The best beginner climbing shoe will also have a sole that provides you with a strong grip. Most soles have a thickness that can determine the sensitivity and durability of the design. 

A 5mm sole is the thickest and would be more durable with less sensitivity. A 4mm sole balances the thickness with sensitivity as a decent compromise. A 3mm sole would have a lot of sensitivity but less protection, which makes it better for indoor use only. 

Comfort

Your beginner climbing shoes should always be comfortable once you have broken them in on the rocks. Top-rated climbing shoes for beginners will use expertly placed padding to make the shoes more comfortable as you climb. You should look for trad, sport climbing, and bouldering shoes for beginners that have lightly padded soles, ankles, and heels to make your climb more comfortable. 

Durability

When you’re spending your time on the rock, you need your footwear to be durable. Rock climbing shoes for beginners should always be constructed to be extra durable so that you can climb on a natural or artificial rock for months and months without replacing your shoes. Durability will be enhanced by the construction and materials used in the design. Beginner climbing shoe reviews can help you determine the durability of a design and whether they are a solid investment. 

Stiffness

For beginners, you need more stiffness instead of flexibility because your foot needs more stability in the ligaments and muscles. While you don’t want your shoe to be completely stiff, you don’t want it to be so flexible that you lack support in the heel, arch, or toe. Instead, look for stiffer midsoles, which are better for edging. 

Indoor vs. Outdoor

Women’s and men’s beginner climbing shoes should be able to be used indoors or outdoors, but you should consider the design and its features to determine which climbing situations are best. Indoor shoes can be more comfortable because you are in a controlled environment. But if you are climbing outdoors, you should choose durability over comfort so that your feet are properly protected. 

Men’s vs. Women’s

While all climbing shoes for beginners look similar, they aren’t. The best climbing shoes for beginners will be designed differently for men and women. Men’s beginner climbing shoes are often wider to accommodate larger feet. Meanwhile, women’s beginner climbing shoes are generally narrower to accommodate smaller foot sizes. 

Related Reviews: Women’s Climbing Shoes  & Climbing Shoes For Wide Feet

FAQs

Do_You_Wear_Socks_With_Climbing_Shoes_(3)

Q: Do You Wear Socks With Climbing Shoes?

A: 

Your choice. Most climbers prefer to not use socks because they feel better without a barrier between their shoes and their feet. It can also reduce the amount of foot slippage. However, some climbers choose to wear socks to help control odor and absorb sweat, or on especially cold days or climbs where performance isn’t as much of a concern.

Q: How Should Climbing Shoes Fit?

A: 

Tight. Rock climbing shoes for beginners need to be snug to ensure maximum contact with the rock, but they should still be comfortable. However, with a proper tight fit, you’ll be able to better manage how you climb and balance the weight of extra gear on bigger climbs.

Q: Do Climbing Shoes Make A Difference?

A: 

Yes. Without climbing shoes, your feet do not have the support, protection, or grip they need to safely climb. The best beginner climbing shoes will provide crucial support to your feet and also protect them from injuries.

Q: When Is The Time To Choose More Advanced Shoes?

A: 

Once beginners have learned and mastered the basics of rock climbing, they can consider looking for more advanced shoes. However, it can take a good chunk of time because your feet need to build up strength. Beginner climbing shoes have more stiffness, which helps you develop the muscles you need to climb. Also, many pros still use beginner-style climbing shoes for more moderate routes or big wall climbs, where they will be climbing for hours upon hours, reserving the more technical shoes for techier climbs.

Q: Should A Beginner Buy New Or Used Shoes?

A: 

Rock climbing shoes can be purchased new or used. While used shoes can help you reduce the cost of your investment, it can mean that you sacrifice comfort. The best climbing shoes for beginners will eventually conform to your feet. A pair of lightly used shoes may suit your needs, but if you feel uncomfortable you should consider purchasing new shoes.

Q: How To Clean And Care For Climbing Shoes?

A: 

When you’re climbing there may be debris on the rocks that can make your shoes dirty. You should be able to gently hand wash your shoes and allow them to fully dry. But if you ever doubt your techniques, you can also check the brand and find specific care instructions online or in a user manual provided with your purchase.

Related Post: How To Clean Climbing Shoes

Globo Surf Overview

Rock climbing has a lot of health benefits and is quite fun, so, understandably, there are constantly beginners who are looking to get started in this exciting sport. 

But before you can take off, you’ll need to support your feet with quality gear, and a pair of top-rated climbing shoes for beginners is the best place to start. With the best beginner climbing shoes, beginners will quickly fall in love with the sport and advance their skills to become pro climbers.

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Do you own a pair of the rock climbing shoes that made it onto our list? Let us know which beginner rock climbing shoes your favorite are in the comments section below.  

Globo Surf
My name is David Hamburg. I am an avid water sports fan who enjoys paddle boarding, surfing, scuba diving, and kite surfing. Anything with a board or chance I can get in the water I love! I am such a big fan I decided to start this website to review all my favorite products and some others. Hope you enjoy!