Best intermediate climbing shoes reddit The type of shoe you want is more based on style of climbing and personal preferences. I only do the indoor bouldering. By the end of a day, my feet are dead. Finally, climbing shoes simply don't last so it could be a bit of a waste to get an expensive pair now. Feb 19, 2021 · Intermediate shoes therefore tend to be made with thinner rubber. I am new to climbing, have gone about 5 times, but just started a membership to go more often. While I'm at it, I'll also recommend checking out the Moccasym (caveat: bad at gym heel/toe hooks) and Solution (great all around sport/bouldering I’m a fairly new climber that mainly boulders V3-5. Apr 24, 2025 · Best Climbing Shoes at a Glance. 6 oz. So I got into climbing about 5months ago and got suppppper obsessed. So I have been climbing for a few months in rental shoes, and looking to get a proper pair. You might also want to check out other brands. Not all. I feel like beginner shoes and most intermediates are pretty similar and not worth it. I have been climbing for a little less than 5 years, with a complete cold turkey freeze during the pandemic for about 2 years. I'm rather light at 55kg. 12a) so I don't require anything too crazy. Unpopular opinion, if you are still learning techniques and climbing lower grades, get a cheaper pair (La sportiva Finale, or something) to climb on V2s and practice V5s and wear your solution comp when you are ready to send it. Backcountry is having a sale on tons of shoes so I wanna snag some now, preferably velcro. V3-4 boulder, 6A+ lead. I used to sell climbing shoes and often people look for “beginner” or “intermediate” shoes. Most important is that they fit you well. What shoes are best for v3 area / where I seem to currently be? From my experience, as long as you're not getting BUFOs, you're fine. 10 so 1) they’re overtuned (like buying a F1 race car for your daily driver) 2) they’re not really soft shoes like you’re looking for and 3) “best” is relative on Dec 29, 2022 · Check out GearJunkie’s guide to the best climbing shoes. Seconding Tenaya! The Ra LV shoe is a bit more snug in the heel than the regular Ra, and is one of the comfiest shoes I've ever tried while still being intermediate. That's all they need. May 10, 2021 · Men’s climbing shoes are wider and higher volume than women’s shoes with a larger toe box, so if a women’s pair is too snug, the men’s version will probably fit you fine. When a company designs a new suite of shoes, they send pairs to us and our testers, and we climb in them, compare notes, write a review, and then, later, do a roundup of the latest and greatest releases of the year. Ever. I wouldn't say there isn't an aspect that doesn't suit me, rather I'm wondering what model from them would be the next step up in terms of a more downturned/agressive shoe or one with a little better edging performance. Personally - I’d get the best shoes you can afford to maintain. I’m looking for a beginner / intermediate shoe that will help me more than my current ones for bouldering and occasional top roping. Need shoes, been doing a good amount of bouldering and indoor climbing. Idk why people downvoted this comment, starting with the sensitive good shoes for bouldering is the only way to get used to sensitive shoes for bouldering, you can get in tarantulas or some other stiff shoes with no downturn and when you feel like you can climb better but your feet aren't helping you as much and you go for performance shoes you're almost back to 0 because you climb different Nov 17, 2023 · Here, we’ve compiled ten of our favorite bouldering shoes—and a list of ten things to think about when buying climbing shoes. Some things to keep in mind are in the following paragraph. Best Outdoor All-Rounder: Scarpa Arpia V ($169) Best Sport/Mixed Shoe: Unparallel Qubit ($186) Best Bouldering Shoe: Scarpa Drago XT ($229) Best for Beginners: Butora Rubicon ($150) Best Shoe for Steep Routes: La Sportiva Mandala ($209) Best Training Shoe: Scarpa Veloce L ($175) Best Pure Slipper: La Sportiva Feb 2, 2024 · The classic intermediate climbing shoe, the Miura boasts the pedigree of a reputable climbing manufacturer as well as being the top pick for intermediate climbing shoes for the last decade. The Katana supplies astounding edging power and precision in a subtly downturned design that doesn't require you to wholly abandon your comfort. I can climb about V2-V3s and a few V4s but it is tough to progress with the rentals. Did you know that r/climbing has a complete wiki on climbing shoes? Check it out here. Would a no edge shoes be a disadvantage for me to improve footwork as an intermediate climber? Mostly looking for gym climbing, could go outside. Heavy intermediate climber seeking shoe purchase advice I am at the point where I need to upgrade shoes after blowing out the toe on my turantulaces. You may also want to eventually explore things like - if you prefer a stiff or soft shoe, and what brands fit your feet the best. There's nothing wrong with using more intermediate shoes as a beginner. Section divider Ten Things You Need to Know About Climbing Shoes 1. (Only slightly more aggresive, no La Sportiva solutions or anything like that please). Hi guys. Honestly paying more will not give you better shoes "for you". We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. I know evolvs fit my feet so I stick with their phantoms for downturned aggressive shoes and their Kronos when I need a softer shoe. A good beginner transitioning to intermediate shoe, the Anasazi VCS offers a perfect blend of stiffness and sensitivity allowing you attempt those harder grades while still being able to feel the rock under your feet. Personally, I believe that shoes should be tight but not painful (no hot spots) – even during the break in period. Naturally started at v2's and I can do some v3's. Next time pay attention what kind of shoes people use on those routes in your climbing gym. La Sportiva Tarantulace: Flat: Lace-up If you have a tiny footholds, it could be problematic. Shoes with synthetic uppers won't stretch very much, while leather uppers will. I have flat and rather narrow low-volume feet. The simple matter is that climbing shoe technology is at the 5. Shoes were terrible. Was pretty close to quitting with other shoes. For me, comfort is king. As everyone has said, try on a bun CJ of different shoes, and see what is best for you. Jan 9, 2025 · SHOES DOWNTURN CLOSURE UPPER WEIGHT (PAIR) La Sportiva Katana Lace: Aggressive: Lace-up: Leather/Microfiber: 1 lb. She's been climbing for a couple months now and wants something slightly more aggressive then her basic gym shoes. If the shoe fits wear it. More info provided below :) My suggestions (in order of preference): Scarpa Instinct VS, La Sportiva Solution, Butora Acro, Evolv Shaman, Five Ten Hiangle. The wide toe box saved my interest in the hobby. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, the right pair of climbing shoes is essential. In the 80's people were in tennis shoes climbing harder than most of us ever will using anything. The definition of the word intermediate also changes depending on the climbing gym. If you want to wear your shoes for hours or climb a lot of slab, no need to get something with a more aggressive So I've been climbing in Skwamas for a bit now, and while I love them for bouldering, they're not the best-equipped for edgy vert, or slab, or all-day hangs. They hurt my feet less than any climbing shoe ive tried. Apr 16, 2025 · What to look for in sport climbing shoes; Ten things you need to know about climbing shoes; Our favorites; Honorable mentions; Most gear roundups cover new releases. Been climbing for almost a year on some LA sportiva taractulaces and I love them, but hate the laces. Try to climb with quiet, precise feet. This also gives you time to learn what type of climbing you like and what style of shoes are best suited to that style of climb as well as your own preferences. Oct 28, 2022 · I’m looking for a more intermediate/moderate shoe and wanted some insight. If you’re perceptive, you might have picked up on the commonalities between these shoes. Anyway, I decided to write this guide (primarily aimed at beginner/intermediate climbers) because I wanted to help others in selecting shoes, especially those with the same foot profile as me (it has been a struggle to find shoes that fit perfectly)! Sep 29, 2024 · Just burned through a pair of night Hawk evolves and im looking for a more intermediate shoe. Apr 16, 2025 · Despite its considerable price tag, the La Sportiva Katana Lace is an exceedingly popular shoe, and it only took a couple of pitches for our testers to understand why. 1. I. eu has some classification, but it's not quite complete or super accurate. 11 level. While it was designed for overhanging sport routes, bouldering, gym climbing, and technical face climbing depending on how they are sized they are equally Mar 9, 2023 · The La Sportiva Kubo may not be the most aggressive shoe on this list, but it’s certainly one of the most comfortable. I have read various posts already and have found that most people say to buy the shoes that fit you the best. I'm looking for a basic, all-around workhorse shoe that leaves everything up to my footwork to get by on anything I throw at it (except for overhang). Part of the problem is many companies don't publish it. They get this reputation of being the pinnacle of climbing shoe performance but pretty much every gym foothold is more positive than the feet you’ll find on an outdoor 5. Over the past decade, our team has tested over 45 of the best climbing shoes for women. Between the climbing shoes, 5. Oct 1, 2020 · BEST FOR: SLAB SPORT CLIMBING. Black Diamond is a relative newcomer to the rock shoe market, having launched the flat-lasted, beginner I used to have a duffel bag of demo shoes full of old Defys and Elektras with 100 demo days on them and they didn't smell at all, ever. Your best bet isn't to research the best "intermediate" shoe for you, it's to go to a gym or shop with lots of shoes, tell the worker what you are looking to do(gym bouldering, vertical granite, overhung sandstone sport, etc. As a beginner really aggressive shoes could make climbing quite painful. AFAIK the italian brands are rather expensive in the states. But the less experienced feet will suffer more. So it's best to search for each manufacturer separately. And yes we are scared of falling. If your shoes make you hate climbing then they are bad shoes. 11d/5. Any shoe above 50 euros will be an improvement. My girlfriend is looking to get a new pair of climbing shoes and would love some help/recommendations. My shoes get sprayed with lysol between uses, and they get to dry between being worn. I spend most of my time sport climbing indoor, maybe around a 70/30 split of the time, where I engage in bouldering more often than top/lead climbing. Pretty much the only shoe that fit semi-comfortably, due to my wide, flat Hobbit-esque feet. I have only ever owned 2 pairs of shoes. I'm looking to buy a good pair of climbing shoes for beginners! Here's all the information that may (or may not) be helpful: I've been climbing for 4 weeks and am climbing 5. Edit: Talked to a dude at the gym, tried on several different pairs of shoes before finally getting a pair of 5. I prefer top-rope over bouldering and currently am not planning to ever climb outdoors. The problem is that there are no stores… It's also a little tricky to get into like the Catch, but immediately comfortable once they were on, which I never expect from brand new, aggressive, downsized shoes. Try on lots of shoes and get an experienced climber help fit them. I read a bunch of reviews online and ordered shoes Id never worn before, same company, same size as the ones I would rent. 10 and LaSportiva reign supreme. The heel fit me loads better compared to the Stay, and the whole shoe honestly reminds me a bit of a softer Solution Comp, which is my current favourite. You’ll notice all of those are velcro closure. Search for 'scarpa climbing shoe chart' for example, they do have complete info, so do Ocun and Red Chili. No use having a great shoe that doesn't fit you well. Avoid the typical, "This shoe can take a bullet," gym shoes, and get a decent pair, and its fine. I had scarpa helixes I returned. The ideal pair will offer the fit and performance that match your climbing style so you can tackle the wall more confidently. 5 (I could’ve done a 43). This amazing gym climbing shoe boasts a soft yet supportive split sole, a slight downturn, and a solid heel making it perfect for intermediate climbers looking to up their game from a beginner model without sacrificing much comfort. Black Diamond Climbing Shoes. Apr 22, 2025 · The Best Climbing Shoes for Women. Comfort is not king. Bergfreunde. Seconding these as a beginner/intermediate. I think it comes down to the individual problem, and having both a soft shoe and a stiff shoe is a good idea. I would also suggest adding another 20 dollars and get shoes that would last longer and would provide better support. But better shoes will teach you way more about how to use your feet. There is no beginner shoe. Climbing shoes have very specific fit so finding a good fit takes time. I have tried on a pair of Scarpa Velocity (the newer version) in my local gym, and it fits quite well. The best intermediate climbing shoe has thin rubber that is also durable. My Katakis stretched a 1/2 size at least. You need to try the shoes on or know what type of feet the manufacturer makes shoes for. And a well fitting pair of cheap shoes is going to climb much better than a pair of ill-fitting mocs or muiras or solutions. I'd really like a more performance oriented shoe that isn't terribly uncomfortable and is fairly durable. Why? Because I washed them, properly. Obviously, gym shoes compared to a proper pair of climbing shoes is a real step up but then after that it’s not like one shoe will suddenly give you a few grades advantage. I'm in search of a second shoe, from a very begginer style Garra Kamae. Based on some research the Scarpa Instinct VS/VSR, Scarpa Veloce, Scarpa Vapor (V), La Sportiva Kubo, and La Sportiva Katana look like some good options. e. I personally love them and bought a second pair. Fitting your climbing shoes for comfort is like buying a car because you like the driver’s seat. 4M subscribers in the climbing community. Look I have a bucket of climbing shoes too. Also there is a whole subreddit devoted to climbing shoeswhich one you ask? Why, its r/climbingshoes, if you can believe it. But Mad Rock, Scarpa, Evolv and Red Chili are more than adequate for your needs. I have 4 pairs of shoes now and that's the least amount I've ever owned. I’m now thinking about switching up another gear of what comes to shoes and I would really appreciate your input. I mentioned four good shoe options for OP -- Dragon, Arrowhead, Testarossa, and Team -- and made the point that fit and precision are more important for climbing hard than getting an aggressive shoe. I'm a 170lb guy, been bouldering and sport climbing indoors for a over a year now, grade wise I'm pretty intermediate (V5/V6, 5. Intermediate climbing shoes Hello, i started climbing about 1 1/2 years ago and have been using my scarpa velocity shoes since then, and they’re really starting to show the wear. I climb mostly indoor but several times a summer Also consider what you typically climb. 10 Asym's. Yes aggressive shoes perform better on overhung and a stiff toe is better for tiny footholds while soft rubber is better on volumes but you can climb anything in anything. The rubber could also be firm or soft. Just wondering what the best shoes to get are. Also kinda asking people here for advice, because I'm not sure what I need at this point in my climbing journey honestly. Completely different fit. They should ask questions about your experience and interests in climbing to determine what kind of climbing shoe you want. I've finally outgrown my first pair of climbing shoes, which were just some cheap beginner shoes and am looking for an upgrade. Get a shoe with firm rubber if you climb a lot of routes with thin edges and small chips for feet. Maybe Evolv or UnParallel. I’ve been using the LS Tarantulaces in a 43. Less performance oriented shoes typically don’t have the aggressive shapes and materials which extend break in times. A few weeks later I was near an REI, tried on a pair of Muira VS' and after trying on a few different sizes bought those shoes. I use the Mundaka now since I wanted a softer shoe for smearing on volumes and it's an "aggressive" shoe visually but you wouldn't know it. 9-5. Go to a shop with a large range. There are different shaped toe boxes, and heel cup sizes, so you really want to try a wide variety. How to Choose the Best Intermediate Climbing Shoe for You. I am an intermediate climber, usually working V5-V7 problems at my home gym, just a couple V8's under my belt that really fit my style (and to be honest we're probably soft). Also surprisingly durable for a high performance shoe, lasted 8 months before I resoled them could have probably pushed it another month or 2. I’d note that shoes are very rarely the limiting factor for a climber. Many climbing gyms have their own shoe shop. Toes feel great, heel stays on! I plan on ordering a bunch of shoes and then trying them on at home to figure out what fits me. My main interest for the shoe is sport climbing but I also want them to be decent for bouldering. Many people don't know how to wash shoes, or store them. Not an advertisement for those shoes. I had some Ocun shoes which was 65€ and then i went for some shoe that was ~100 and afterwards upgraded to the VSR, which I love. Nov 11, 2023 · The five shoes I will share with you on this page are some of the best climbing shoes for intermediate climbers available in 2023, all of which are suited to a variety of foot shapes and climbing styles. Check in over there, they will certainly appreciate your post. . A lot of people seem to like tarantulace as a starter shoe so maybe check those out. I used my friends random shoes that were a bit to big at the start but as I improved I wanted to get my own shoes and after a lot of research decided for the Skwamas size 40 (my natural size is about 42,5). the scarpa vapor v is a fantastic shoe for intermediate climbing! if you wanted to go the la sportiva route you could try the kubos, i’ve never worn either of them but i have friends who have and loved the shoes— if you’re looking for more aggressive shoes and you’re primarily gym climbing la sportiva has the theories which are an The solution is still my favorite sport climbing shoe that I have tried, precise and makes me feel confident on even the smallest feet. Solution comp is the best all rounded bouldering shoes in my mind, while the theory is excellent for slab smearing. Honestly, i feel like intermediate shoes are not worth it. Shoes are built from a last, which is going to dictate the fit and shape of the shoe. As a bit of a preliminary I am relatively skinny and don't find supporting my weight difficult. The home of Climbing on reddit. I want to buy my first pair of climbing shoes and am looking for recommendations. Hi there redditgod1998. When people talk this shoe is > than that for X its almost entirely preference. ), and try on all the shoes they have in that style until something fits well. I was previously recommended by friends to perhaps invest in a more intermediate climbing shoe as my bouldering problems often involve some overhang. When you can do this reliably, even when working really hard then it will be time to buy a better/more expensive shoe. 8s. 15/16 level and most climbers like OP are at the 5. Then you'll have big climbers who like soft shoes and light climbers who like a stiff shoe. I've had my evolv phantoms 3 months into climbing and I for sure will never climb Daniel's v17. Tarantulas will keep you climbing. TLDR: I am looking for intermediate but comfortable climbing shoes for indoor climbing with slight/medium downturn and low/medium pre-tensioning. tkuku iab fqppw svdz nemnkp gsxanr lzkxf pjykajps ccyp bwh ylypy pythu lsvp iwh oxehi