What to Look for in Climbing Shoes

Before diving into brands or styles, here’s what really matters when choosing your first pair:

1. Fit – Snug but not painful. Climbing shoes are designed to fit tightly so you can feel the wall beneath your toes. But “tight” doesn’t mean cutting off circulation—you want control, not torture.

2. Purpose – Are you focusing on indoor bouldering, sport climbing, or something else? For indoor bouldering, comfort and flexibility are key.

3. Shoe Type – Climbing shoes come in different shapes: flat, moderate, and aggressive. (More on this in a second.)

4. Durability – Look for shoes with good rubber and sturdy construction, especially as a beginner who’ll be putting them through their paces.

Now that you know the basics, let’s look at the types of shoes available.

Types of Climbing Shoes (and What They’re Good For)

Climbing shoes fall into three main categories based on their shape:

1. Neutral Shoes (Best for Beginners)

These are flat and super comfy compared to other climbing shoes. The sole is less curved, so they feel more like snug slippers than clawed talons. Neutral shoes are great for beginners learning to trust their feet and climb for longer sessions. Bonus: they’re often the most affordable option.

2. Moderate Shoes (For Progressing Climbers)

These have a slight downturn (that curve you see in climbing shoes) and stickier rubber for better grip. They offer a nice balance between comfort and performance. If you’re starting to push into more technical climbs or steeper walls, moderate shoes will help you level up without wrecking your feet.

3. Aggressive Shoes (For Advanced Climbers)

Aggressive shoes are ultra-downturned and super snug, designed for precision on overhangs and small footholds. They’re amazing for hard climbs—but not so great for beginners because of the discomfort and technical focus.

For indoor bouldering newbies, neutral shoes are your best bet. They’ll give you the comfort you need to climb for longer while you’re building skills and confidence. As you get stronger, you might want to experiment with moderate shoes to see the difference.

How Should Climbing Shoes Fit?

A good climbing shoe fit is snug but not excruciating. Here’s a quick guide:

• No Dead Space – The shoe should hug your foot without gaps, especially around your toes and heel.

• Flat or Slightly Curled Toes – For beginners, your toes should be flat or only slightly curled. Extreme toe curls can come later if you move to more technical shoes.

• Heel Shouldn’t Slip – A snug heel fit is crucial. If your heel pops out, the shoe isn’t giving you the control you need.

Pro tip: Try climbing shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are naturally a bit swollen—that’s when you’ll get the truest fit.

Finding the Right Climbing Shoe for You

1. Start Simple – For your first pair, go for comfort over fancy features. Trust us, a comfy shoe will make climbing much more enjoyable.

2. Test Them Out – Try on a few pairs to compare fits and shapes. Some brands will suit your feet better than others.

3. Get a Feel on the Wall – At The Climbing Hangar, we stock a variety of climbing shoes from the best brands, and you can actually test them on our bouldering walls before you buy. That way, you’ll know how they perform in action—not just on the shop floor.

Choosing your first climbing shoes doesn’t need to be complicated. Stick to comfort, look for a snug fit, and start with neutral shoes designed for indoor bouldering. As you gain experience and confidence, you can start experimenting with different styles to suit your climbing goals.

At The Climbing Hangar, we’re always here to help you find the right shoe for your climbing journey—whether you’re a total beginner or ready to level up. Pop in, chat with our team, and don’t forget to test the shoes out on the wall.

So, which pair are you going to try first?