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10 Best Rock Climbing Shoes 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
La Sportiva Mens TC Pro Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive, 8.5-9
The La Sportiva Mens TC Pro Rock Climbing Shoes are designed to offer excellent performance for vertical edging and crack climbing, making them a good choice for traditional (Trad) climbers. They feature a lace-up closure system that allows for a customizable fit, which is particularly useful for long climbing sessions where comfort is key. The unique mid-height cuff with ankle padding provides extra protection, especially in wider cracks, enhancing foot safety. The perforated leather upper and ventilated, padded tongue ensure good breathability and comfort, which is essential for all-day climbs.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,384
Fit
Closure System
Most important from
28 reviews
#2
BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes | Engineered Knit Technology | 4.3mm Rubber Outsole | White/Black | Size 12
The Black Diamond Men's Momentum climbing shoes are designed with a flat profile, meaning they don't have a strong downward curve (downturn). This design provides more comfort for beginners or those doing longer climbs where comfort is important rather than aggressive edging. The shoes feature a nylon outer material, which is stretchy and breathable, offering a good fit that molds to your foot over time but might stretch out slightly with use.
Rating
9.4
Fit
Type of Climbing
Most important from
807 reviews
#3
SCARPA Instinct VSR Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Black/Azure - 8-8.5
The SCARPA Instinct VSR Rock Climbing Shoes are specifically designed for sport climbing and bouldering. They are a great fit for lighter climbers who may find stiffer models uncomfortable. With sizing advice suggesting you stick to your street shoe size or even go larger, these shoes address the concern of a non-stretching synthetic upper.
Rating
9.4
Fit
Type of Climbing
Sole Stiffness
Most important from
60 reviews
Top 10 Best Rock Climbing Shoes 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
La Sportiva Mens TC Pro Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive, 8.5-9
La Sportiva Mens TC Pro Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive, 8.5-9
Fit: customizable
Type of Climbing: traditional (Trad)
Closure System: Lace-Up
Material: Leather
Sole Stiffness: high
Downturn: moderate to large
Chosen by 1384 this week
BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes | Engineered Knit Technology | 4.3mm Rubber Outsole | White/Black | Size 12
BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes | Engineered Knit Technology | 4.3mm Rubber Outsole | White/Black | Size 12
Fit: good fit molds to foot over time
Type of Climbing: Gym, Rock
Closure System: simple closure, likely Velcro
Material: Nylon
Sole Stiffness: moderate
Downturn: flat profile, no downward curve
SCARPA Instinct VSR Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Black/Azure - 8-8.5
SCARPA Instinct VSR Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Black/Azure - 8-8.5
Fit: Runs small
Type of Climbing: Sport climbing, bouldering
Material: 100% Synthetic
Sole Stiffness: Less stiff
SCARPA Drago LV Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Low-Volume Fit and Specialized Performance for Sensitivity - White - 7-7.5
SCARPA Drago LV Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Low-Volume Fit and Specialized Performance for Sensitivity - White - 7-7.5
Fit: low-volume
Type of Climbing: sport climbing, bouldering
Closure System: Hook & Loop
Material: synthetic
Sole Stiffness: stiff
Downturn: aggressive
La Sportiva Men's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive/Tiger, 10
La Sportiva Men's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive/Tiger, 10
Fit: snug, precise
Type of Climbing: gym, outdoor rock climbing
Closure System: Lace-Up
Material: Leather
Sole Stiffness: maximum rigidity
Downturn: moderate
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SCARPA Instinct VS Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Black/Orange - 8.5
SCARPA Instinct VS Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Black/Orange - 8.5
Fit: For climbers with wider feet
Type of Climbing: Sport climbing, bouldering
Closure System: Velcro strap
Material: Leather, synthetic leather, textile lining
Sole Stiffness: Dual Vibram soles; XS Edge, XS Grip 2
SCARPA Drago Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Specialized Performance for Sensitivity - Yellow - 11
SCARPA Drago Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Specialized Performance for Sensitivity - Yellow - 11
Fit: very tight initially
Type of Climbing: sport climbing, bouldering
Closure System: slip-on
Material: synthetic microfiber upper, natural rubber
Sole Stiffness: stiff
Downturn: aggressive
La Sportiva Mens Solution Rock Climbing Shoe, White/Yellow, 9.5
La Sportiva Mens Solution Rock Climbing Shoe, White/Yellow, 9.5
Fit: large down-turned fit, high asymmetry
Type of Climbing: modern bouldering, challenging climbs
Closure System: single-strap hook and loop
Material: laser-cut leather, microfiber uppers
Sole Stiffness: medium stiffness
Downturn: large down-turned
#10
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Buying Guide for the Best Rock Climbing Shoes
Choosing the right rock climbing shoes is crucial for both comfort and performance. The right pair can make a significant difference in your climbing experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber. When selecting climbing shoes, consider the type of climbing you'll be doing, your foot shape, and the fit of the shoe. It's important to try on several pairs and walk around in them to ensure they feel right. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing rock climbing shoes.FitFit is the most important aspect of climbing shoes. A well-fitted shoe should be snug but not painfully tight. Climbing shoes are designed to fit more tightly than regular shoes to provide better control and sensitivity on the rock. For beginners, a comfortable fit with a little bit of room is ideal, while advanced climbers might prefer a tighter fit for more precision. Always try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to get the most accurate fit.
Type of ClimbingThe type of climbing you plan to do will influence the type of shoe you need. For bouldering and sport climbing, shoes with a downturned shape (aggressive) are preferred for their precision and power. For trad climbing and multi-pitch routes, a flatter shoe (neutral) is more comfortable for extended wear. If you're into crack climbing, look for shoes with a low profile and a stiff sole to protect your feet.
Closure SystemClimbing shoes come with different closure systems: lace-up, Velcro, and slip-on. Lace-up shoes offer the most adjustable fit, making them versatile for various types of climbing. Velcro shoes are convenient for quick on and off, ideal for bouldering and gym climbing. Slip-on shoes, also known as slippers, provide a snug fit and are great for training and crack climbing. Choose a closure system based on your climbing style and preference for convenience versus adjustability.
MaterialClimbing shoes are made from either leather or synthetic materials. Leather shoes tend to stretch and mold to your feet over time, providing a custom fit. Synthetic shoes offer less stretch and maintain their shape better, which can be beneficial for consistent performance. Consider how much stretch you want in your shoes and whether you prefer a more breathable material (leather) or a more durable one (synthetic).
Sole StiffnessThe stiffness of the sole affects the shoe's performance and comfort. Stiffer soles provide more support and are better for edging on small footholds, making them suitable for beginners and trad climbers. Softer soles offer more sensitivity and are preferred by advanced climbers for overhanging routes and smearing. Think about the type of climbing you do most often and choose a sole stiffness that matches your needs.
DownturnThe downturn of a climbing shoe refers to the curve of the shoe from heel to toe. Aggressively downturned shoes are designed for steep, overhanging routes and provide more power and precision. Moderately downturned shoes offer a balance between comfort and performance, suitable for a variety of climbing styles. Neutral shoes are flat and comfortable, ideal for beginners and long climbs. Your choice should depend on your climbing style and the type of routes you typically climb.