How to Choose Climbing Shoes (Visual)

HOW TO CHOOSE CLIMBING SHOES:

THE OFFICIAL GUIDE TO CLIMBING SHOES SOLD AT TUFAS

Sizing Climbing shoes should be snug but not too tight – soccer cleats.

 

 

Most brands will sell a high-volume and low-volume version of the same shoe – sizing varies! Be flexible! Sizes are unique to brands – and no two feet are alike! Try as many shoes as possible

 

Shape

 

Aggressive, Moderate, or Neutral: how downturned a shoe is dictates how effective it is on the overhang. Aggressive shoes are perfect for boulderers who can take them off between attempts, but might be way too painful for day-long multi-pitch route, or long stretches at the gym Slab, Vert, Overhang:

A full, stiff midsole thrives on slab.

A more flexible midsole, or a total lack of one, might be the better option for steep overhangs.

Features Slippers for easy on/off.

Velcro for easy on/off and security.

Laces for max security.

Unlined leather – full size stretch

 

Lined leather – half size

 

Synthetic – no stretch

 

Downturn: how much weight the shape of the shoe puts on the big toe.

 

Tips Toes touching the front of the shoe – no deadspace! No room to wiggle!

 

Try them without socks for a closer fit! It doesn’t hurt to have a few diverse pairs for diverse styles of climbing. Make sure your heel fits comfortably – no pinching the Achilles tendon!
Evolv

Defy

$89

Velcro

Neutral

High-Volume

Synthetic

Good For:

Beginners, All-rounder.

 

Evolv

Elektra

$89

Velcro

Neutral

Low-Volume

Synthetic

Good For:

Beginners, All-rounder.

 

Evolv

Shaman

$165

Velcro

Aggressive

High-Volume

Synthetic

Good For:

Intermediate, Advanced, Bouldering.

 

La Sportiva

Tarantula

$89

Velcro

Neutral

High-Volume

Unlined Leather

 

Good For:

Beginners,

All-rounder.

La Sportiva

Finale

$110

Lace

Moderate

Low-Volume

Unlined Leather

Good For:

Beginners,

All-rounder.

La Sportiva

Kataki

$170

Lace

Aggressive

Low-Volume

Lined Leather

Good For:

Intermediate, Advanced, Bouldering.

 

La Sportiva

Skwama

$175

Velcro

Aggressive

High-Volume

Synthetic

Good For:

Intermediate, Advanced, Bouldering.