Information on Rock Climbing Shoes for Beginners

Fitting rock climbing shoes for beginners is unlike fitting other types of footwear. The "extra room" clause does not apply to rock climbing shoes because rock climbing requires a snug fit to provide good foot control and feel. There are different styles of climbing and different surfaces to climb on, and your shoes must match both for a comfortable, secure climb.

  1. Function of Rock Climbing Shoes

    • Rock climbing shoes are designed to grip small surfaces and ledges securely, allowing the climber to ascend steep, vertical walls. A critical part of every climber's equipment, rock climbing shoes differ from beginner to intermediate and advanced. A beginner should focus on comfort until her skill level and the type of climbing she does calls for a more technical shoe.

    Fitting Beginner Rock Shoes

    • Rock climbing shoe uppers are made with leather and synthetics. The fit should be snug but not overly tight for beginning climbers. Many manufacturers will make rock climbing shoes the same size as street shoes, but others will design them smaller for the "snug" fit most climber's require. As a beginner, you should go for comfort as you want to be sure to focus on footholds and control, not foot pain or discomfort. Proper fit should be snug with no pinching or rubbing.

      Leather shoes will stretch up to a one-half inch. Leather-lined shoes will not stretch and will conform to your foot after wearing them a few times. Synthetics do not stretch at all.

    Types of Climbing and Surfaces

    • The type of shoe you use should be matched to the type of climbing and the surface you are climbing on. No one shoe in climbing can give you the security and performance you need for all surfaces and types of climbing.

      Surfaces range from limestone to granite, and the type of surface you climb calls for a specific type of shoe. Learning this aspect of climbing will enable you to choose the shoe that suits your climbing interests.

      Types of rock climbing include:
      Bouldering---Lower to the ground, shorter climbs.
      Gym climbing---Indoor rock gyms perfect for the beginner.
      Sport climbing---Involves the use of permanent anchors attached to rock walls.
      Traditional---Climbing routes that have no permanent anchors.

    Consider the Last First

    • The "last" is the solid foot-shaped model the shoe is built around. In rock climbing shoes, the last is known as a slip last. The slip last makes the shoe more sensitive.

      The last you will need for your beginner rock climbing shoe is called a "straight last." The straight last has a flat sole and keeps the foot in a natural position. The characteristic of this last is known as semi-flexed, which is the most comfortable last available.

    Misconceptions About Rock Shoes

    • A common misconception new climbers make is that they need the aggressive styles used by more experienced climbers. The asymmetrical last and the down-turned toe is a necessity for advanced climbers to grab incut footholds on steep terrain, but they are too extreme and painful for new climbers. Stick with flat and straight, and your climbing will be more comfortable, allowing you to climb more.

      Buying multiple pairs for each type of climbing might seem impractical, so it's best to choose a versatile pair that fits well and offers all-day comfort.