The Basics

Buying your first pair of climbing shoes is an opportunity to have your own rock climbing Cinderella moment. Try on as many pairs as possible, and eventually, you’ll find the one that fits just right. Looking for a pair of climbing shoes online is possible, but requires more research and attention to detail. That’s where we come in. This article will outline the basics and provide a path to selecting your next pair of climbing shoes.

Before hitting the virtual shelves, you’ll want to be clear on what type of climbing you plan to do and your overall climbing experience. These factors all play into your selection.

Are you psyched on slabs? Obsessed with cracks? Training relentlessly in the gym? Maybe it's all of the above. If you spend more time on low-angle to vertical terrain, a flat, stiffer shoe with minimal asymmetry is ideal. For cracks, you may want a bit of extra ankle protection. An asymmetrical, downturned shoe will help you toe in with more power on steeper terrain.

If you are new to climbing, chances are you’ll be more comfortable in a flat shoe rather than an overly aggressive one. In terms of sizing, it comes down to personal preference. A climbing shoe should be snug but not overly tight. It takes a little while to get your feet accustomed to the fit of climbing shoes, so generally, if you’re just starting out, you’ll probably want to size your shoes pretty comfortably right out of the box. We’ve categorized our shoes below to help you narrow in on the right pair while considering fit, style of climbing, and features.

Your First Pair of Climbing Shoes

As a new climber, comfort is king. If your feet hurt, you’ll just be dreaming of taking your shoes off rather than focusing on the climbing itself! With this in mind, we designed the Momentum and the Momentum Lace climbing shoes. Both of these shoes feature an Engineered Knit upper that stretches and breathes where you need it. A soft-flex midsole makes for a comfortable, all-day fit, so you can wear these shoes on everything, from moderate multi-pitches to long gym