Best Climbing Shoes for Beginners: The Complete Buying Guide
Your first climbing shoes are a critical investment. Learn how to choose the right climbing shoes for your foot shape, climbing style, and budget — and avoid expensive mistakes.
The Bottom Line for Beginners
If you're new to climbing and don't want to read the whole guide, here's what you need to know:
- • Get a neutral/flat shoe — Not aggressive, not super cheap rental-style
- • Spend $75-120 — Budget options work fine, don't overspend on first pair
- • Fit snug but not painful — Curled toes, no dead space, minimal pain
- • Try multiple brands — Foot shapes vary; find your brand
- • Top picks: La Sportiva Tarantulace, Scarpa Origin, Evolv Defy
Types of Climbing Shoes
Climbing shoes come in three main profiles based on how much the toe curves downward (called "downturn"). Understanding these categories is key to choosing the right shoe:
Neutral/Flat
Flat sole, relaxed fit, minimal downturn
Beginners, all-day comfort, slab climbing, crack climbing
La Sportiva Tarantula, Scarpa Origin, Evolv Defy, Black Diamond Momentum
Comfortable for long sessions, good for vertical/slab, versatile, affordable
Less precision on small holds, not ideal for steep terrain, less power in toe
Moderate Downturn
Slight downturn, medium asymmetry, snugger fit
Intermediate climbers, gym climbing, sport climbing
La Sportiva Finale, Scarpa Instinct VS, Evolv Shaman, Black Diamond Focus
Balance of comfort and performance, versatile, good for varied terrain
Some break-in required, tighter than neutral shoes
Aggressive Downturn
Significant downturn, highly asymmetric, very tight fit
Advanced climbers, bouldering, steep overhangs, competition
La Sportiva Solution, Scarpa Drago, Evolv Phantom, Unparallel TN Pro
Maximum power and precision on small holds, excellent on steep terrain
Uncomfortable for extended wear, expensive, overkill for most climbing
How Climbing Shoes Should Fit
Fit is the most important factor in choosing climbing shoes. A well-fitting shoe lets you stand precisely on small edges without pain. Here's what to check:
Length
Toes should be slightly curled but not painfully cramped. No dead space at toe, but you shouldn't be in constant pain.
Width
Snug across the top of foot with no air gaps. Shouldn't feel like your foot is being squeezed into a vice.
Heel
Heel should fit precisely in the heel cup with no slipping or extra space. Critical for heel hooks.
Closure
Velcro straps or laces should close comfortably without gaps. You shouldn't need to crank them to maximum tightness.
The "Walk Test"
You should be able to walk across the store in climbing shoes with moderate discomfort, not severe pain. If you can't complete a few steps without wincing, they're too tight. If you can walk normally with no discomfort, they're probably too loose.
Top Recommended Climbing Shoes
La Sportiva Tarantulace
$89The gold standard first climbing shoe. Comfortable, durable, performs well on all terrain. Lace closure for customizable fit.
Scarpa Origin
$99Excellent comfort with slightly more performance than basic beginner shoes. Great for gym climbing with occasional outdoor use.
Evolv Defy
$75Budget-friendly option with surprising performance. Comfortable out of the box. Good value for new climbers.
Black Diamond Momentum
$99Comfortable all-rounder with excellent out-of-box fit. Knit upper provides great breathability for gym sessions.
La Sportiva Finale
$109Step up from beginner shoes with moderate downturn. Great for progressing climbers who want more precision.
Prices and availability may vary. We recommend trying shoes in-store before purchasing. Links go to official manufacturer websites.
Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Buying too aggressive for your level
Aggressive shoes hurt, aren't more effective at beginner grades, and can actually hinder technique development by masking footwork errors.
❌ Sizing way too tight
Climbing shoes should be snug but not excruciating. You need to be able to stand on tiny edges without pain distracting you.
❌ Not trying multiple brands
Different brands fit different foot shapes. La Sportiva tends narrow, Scarpa medium, Evolv wider. Try several brands to find your fit.
❌ Choosing based on looks
The best-looking shoe is worthless if it doesn't fit your foot. Function over fashion, always.
❌ Not considering your climbing style
Boulder mostly? Get something with more rubber. Routes all day? Prioritize comfort. Match the shoe to your actual climbing.
Climbing Shoes FAQ
Climbing shoes should be snug with your toes slightly curled, but not painfully tight. You should be able to stand in them with mild discomfort, not agony. Shoes stretch 0.5-1 size with break-in (leather more than synthetic), so factor that in.
No. A $75-100 beginner shoe is plenty for your first year or two of climbing. Expensive aggressive shoes won't help you climb harder as a beginner — technique will. Save the $180 shoes until you're climbing 5.11+ and actually need the performance.
Climbing shoes are typically sized 0.5-2 sizes smaller than street shoes, but this varies by brand. Always try on climbing shoes before buying. Start with your street size and go down until snug but not painful.
Beginners should always start with neutral (flat) shoes. Aggressive shoes are designed for overhangs and small edges — skills beginners haven't developed. Flat shoes teach proper footwork and are comfortable for all-day gym sessions.
For gym climbers, expect 6-12 months of regular use before needing a resole or replacement. Outdoor climbing wears shoes faster. Signs you need new rubber: smooth/shiny toe, holes forming, loss of grip.
Most climbers don't wear socks for maximum sensitivity and precision. However, for beginners prioritizing comfort, thin socks are acceptable. If you do wear socks, account for that when sizing.
Velcro is faster to get on/off, which is why boulderers prefer it. Laces offer a more customizable fit. For beginners doing mixed gym climbing, either works. Pick based on personal preference.
Track Your Climbing Progress
Got your new shoes? Use Beta Flow to log your climbing sessions and watch how your technique improves with proper footwear.