If you’re looking for an activity that combines cardio, strength training, and the great outdoors, nothing beats rock climbing. The extreme sport test your limits unlike any other activity, literally putting you between a rock and hard place and daring you to find your way up and out.
Rock climbing or bouldering is a great way to work on flexibility and endurance, both physically and mentally. Where most sports and activities have an obvious pattern and guide to follow, rock climbing forces the climber to choose their own path. One misstep, one underestimated reach, one moment of fatigue that makes you lose your concentration can result in a fall. Whether you free climb or use harnesses, falling is scary. But falling is part of climbing, and what matters is how quickly you get back up.
Finding a place to climb that is safe and appropriate for your level is paramount to your success on the rock, but finding the right shoes can be just as important. Giving you the flexibility to move your foot so that it can find even the smallest of ledges can be the difference between a fun day of climbing and a long day in the emergency room. Having shoes with enough support that you can make your way through the elements to the rock is also important, with your body requiring all the strength that has for the challenge ahead.
When buying climbing shoes it’s important to know the lingo. Shoes that are low-volume feet mean that you have narrow feet, whereas high volume shoes are for feet that tend to be wider. Neutral shoes are more relaxed and better for beginners, offering a more comfortable fit. Moderate shoes have more of a toe hook and aggressive shoes have a significant toe hook, making them less comfortable and more suitable for advanced climbers.
As for style, lace-up hiking shoes tend to be better for outdoor climbs since they can be loosened while walking to the climbing spot.
So what shoes will help you grip and not slip? We’ve got some suggestions.
1. Five Ten Men’s Rogue VCS Climbing Shoe
Five Ten Men’s Rogue VCS Climbing Shoe is made from 100 per cent leather, which means it will likely stretch, something to keep in mind when ordering. The rubber sole and heel sling shot rand are paired with a reinforced arch to make a shoe that is supportive and comfortable. Our team likes the shoe’s dual hook-and-loop strap closure, which makes it easy to tighten and slip on and off. Some customers have noted that the shoes give them ‘smurf feet,’ turning feet light blue when they begin to sweat, but it easily washes off and decreases the more you use the shoes.
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2. La Sportiva Men’s TarantuLace Performance Rock Climbing Shoe
La Sportiva Men’s TarantuLace Performance Rock Climbing Shoe has a huge following of climbers thanks to its high-end features at an affordable price. Designed with a fast lace system that helps the shoe conform to the foot and provide support, La Sportiva is designed for intermediate climbers who are ready for aggressive rubber heels and a shoe that allows for added sensitivity without added pain. Customers like that the shoe can be worn for hours and works for both indoor and outdoor climbing.
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3. Evolv Axiom Climbing Shoe
The Evolv Axiom Climbing Shoe is a great entry level shoe that comes with the added value of a DVD, which explains the ins and outs of rock climbing, perfect for anyone who is new to the sport. The shoe is made from suede and synthetic material, giving it room to stretch and breathe. Customers said the shoes require a few uses before they’re completely broken in, but once they are the Evol are a comfortable climbing shoe.
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4. Climb X Rock-It Strap Climbing Shoe
The Climb X Rock-It Strap Climbing Shoe is made with a 3D molded midsoul and heelcup, a contoured arch and a breathable neoprene padded tongue to make a shoe that fits like a comfortable second skin. Available in both lace mode and with three straps, the Climb X Rock-It Strap Climbing Shoe are ideal for intermediate and advanced climbers.
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