How to Choose Rock Climbing Shoes

In today's plethora of choices, finding the right rock climbing shoe can ba as difficult as finding the right running shoe. As any athlete knows, having the right shoe can impact your performance. Before you go shopping, know what kind of climbing you intend to do on a regular basis, because that will guide your choice.

For the rock climber, shoes are as much of a tool of climbing as a rope. They're designed to grip the rock, fit into cracks and give your foot the flexibility it needs to master the climb. And like a rope that's too short, the wrong shoe can ruin your day on the rocks.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Your shoe size

1. Are you a beginner, intermediate or expert climber? The answer to this question will guide your quest for the perfect shoe. If you're a beginner, you'll want to stick with an all-purpose climbing shoe until you've mastered the skills. During this time you'll learn techniques and probably climb a variety of rock faces. An all-purpose shoe will give you the most freedom to do this.

2. 
   Five Ten Moccasym Rock Shoe

   What type of climbing to intend to do? Competitions or recreational climbing? Out on the rocks or in the gym? Do you spend all day climbing? What type of rock and what kind of route do you climb the most? All these questions will narrow down your choice.

3. There are three basic styles of climbing shoes: all-purpose (recommended for beginners), high-performance (for competitions or difficult sport climbs), and slipper (training, gym climbing and bouldering).

4. Get the right fit. You want a snug fit, but not one that is painful. Your foot shouldn't be slipping around inside the shoe. Most climbing shoes stretch in width, not length, so if you experience pain in the heel or toes, you probably need a different shoe or a different size. If you plan to climb all day, choose a shoe that is comfortably snug. If short, more difficult climbs are on the agenda, go for a tighter fit.

5. Climbing shoes come in US, European, and UK sizes. Don't make the mistake of assuming a US size 9 is the same as UK size 9. You'll probably have to try on several pairs before you find just the right size and fit.

Tips & Warnings

• While you may not intend to wear socks when you climb, consider wearing a pair of liner socks when you are out shopping. They will help your foot slip in and out of the shoe as you try them on.
• If you do plan to wear socks when climbing, where them while shopping to ensure the correct fit.

Resources

• Expert Advice from REI