How to Choose Your First Pair of Climbing Shoes

 So, like us, have you become hooked on climbing? It’s time to say goodbye to rental shoes! If you’re here, it means you need a hand sorting through all the shoe models to find the pair that fits your feet!

In this article, we’ll guide you through choosing your first pair of climbing shoes.

How to Choose Your First Pair of Climbing Shoes

 So, like us, have you become hooked on climbing? It’s time to say goodbye to rental shoes! If you’re here, it means you need a hand sorting through all the shoe models to find the pair that fits your feet!

In this article, we’ll guide you through choosing your first pair of climbing shoes.

1 - Technical details: research

For your first climbing shoe, we recommend a versatile model that adapts to different climbing styles, both sport and bouldering. Your first pair will allow you to explore climbing with confidence: on good footholds, in overhangs, and on small edges.

Avoid rushing into highly specialized models that might, on the contrary, slow down your progress!

2 - Sole Rigidity

A rigid sole offers support that lets you climb comfortably while learning basic techniques. With overly soft shoes, your feet and ankles may tire more quickly. Rigidity ensures optimal force transfer from the foot to the hold and helps compensate for foot placement errors—a skill that improves with practice!

3 - Rubber Thickness

Thicker rubber ensures the shoe's durability—even if it means sacrificing some sensitivity. With a rigid sole, you can climb without worrying about prematurely damaging your shoes!

4 - Symmetry and Shoe Camber

Symmetrical models with a low camber have a rather neutral shape that conforms to the natural anatomy of the foot. They don’t accentuate the arch, ensuring comfort and versatility for all types of movements.

5 - Materials of the Upper/Lining

The shoe can be made from two different types of materials: animal leather, which softens over time and adapts better to the foot's shape than synthetic materials; or synthetic material, which is generally more durable.

6 - Comfort and feel: try them on

Comfort is essential when trying on shoes! The shoe should conform to the shape of your foot without creating pressure points. It should feel slightly tight: uncomfortable but not painful. Your toes should touch the front of the shoe and may be slightly curled, but not bent—this would cause unnecessary pain.

To optimize your fitting session, consult the manufacturer's size guide for a more accurate idea of sizes to try. Some brands stick to street sizes, while others recommend choosing a slightly smaller size. Remember that each foot is unique, and these recommendations are just guidelines.

When trying on the shoe, use a structure provided for this purpose. Ensure there are no pressure points, particularly around the toes, sides of the foot, or Achilles tendon.

What if you have a pressure point around the Achilles tendon, or if the shoe’s width doesn’t suit your foot? Most models come in high volume and low volume versions. Designed for wider feet, a high volume model offers more space around the foot’s sole and heel, minimizing pressure points. If you have a narrower foot, a low volume model minimizes friction and provides better overall foot support.

Don’t hesitate to try different models and sizes to find the right balance between too tight and too loose.

Conclusion

Choosing your first pair of climbing shoes involves finding a versatile and comfortable model suited to your climbing style and foot shape. From the technical aspects of the shoes to the feel during fitting, take the time to research and test them yourself!

Pssst… Try your new shoes without socks! It might get a bit smelly over time, but you’ll stay snug in your shoes when you’re on the wall.