12 best mens climbing shoes

Men's climbing shoes are specialized footwear designed for rock climbing and bouldering activities. These shoes are crucial for providing climbers with the necessary grip, support, and precision required for navigating challenging climbing surfaces. Here's what you need to know about men's climbing shoes:

  1. Types of Climbing Shoes:

    • Neutral Shoes: These shoes have flat soles and provide a comfortable fit suitable for beginners and long climbs. They offer a balance between comfort and performance.

    • Aggressive Shoes: Aggressive climbing shoes have a downturned shape, which positions the toes downward. This design enhances precision and power, making them ideal for overhangs and difficult routes.

    • All-Round Shoes: These shoes strike a balance between neutral and aggressive designs, offering versatility for different climbing styles and terrains.

  2. Features and Components:

    • Rubber Soles: Climbing shoes are equipped with sticky rubber soles that provide excellent traction on rock surfaces. Vibram and Stealth C4 are well-known rubber sole brands.

    • Closure Systems: Climbing shoes can have different closure systems, including lace-up, hook-and-loop (Velcro), and slip-on. The choice of closure system depends on personal preference and the type of climbing.

    • Sensitivity: Sensitivity refers to how well the shoe transmits information about the climbing surface to the climber's feet. Highly sensitive shoes offer better feedback but may be less comfortable for extended climbs.

    • Rand: The rand is the rubber strip that wraps around the front of the shoe. Some shoes have a full rand, which offers extra protection and durability, while others have partial rands for increased sensitivity.

    • Fit: Climbing shoes should fit snugly but not painfully tight. A well-fitted shoe ensures better control and prevents unnecessary discomfort.

  3. Usage and Styles:

    • Sport Climbing Shoes: These are designed for bolted routes in climbing gyms and outdoor sport climbing. They balance comfort and performance.

    • Trad Climbing Shoes: Traditional climbing shoes are suitable for traditional or multi-pitch climbing, where comfort during long ascents is important.

    • Bouldering Shoes: Bouldering shoes prioritize power and precision for short and intense climbs. They often have an aggressive design.

    • Crack Climbing Shoes: These shoes are specialized for crack climbing, with features like reinforced toes to protect against abrasion.

  4. Brands:

    • Several reputable brands produce men's climbing shoes, including La Sportiva, Scarpa, Five Ten, Black Diamond, Evolv, and Mad Rock, among others.
  5. Sizing and Fit:

    • Climbing shoe sizing can vary between brands and models.It's essential to try on shoes to find the right fit, as sizing charts may not always be consistent.
  6. Care and Maintenance:

    • Proper care of climbing shoes involves cleaning them after use, allowing them to air out, and avoiding excessive moisture. Resoling may also be necessary over time to extend the life of the shoes.

In summary, men's climbing shoes are specialized footwear designed to enhance the performance and safety of climbers during various types of rock climbing activities. Choosing the right climbing shoe depends on factors such as climbing style, fit, and personal preferences, and it's crucial to ensure a proper fit for comfort and performance.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best mens climbing shoes on the market
  

SCARPA Men's, Mountaineering and Trekking, US:8.5

Scarpa

Product description

A new exceptional entry level shoe that uses a unique knit construction for comfort and ventilation. With a zonal mapping on the top, it has an optimal combination of supportive and stretch fabric for easy structure, protection, ease of entry and comfort.

  • Scarpa's double velcro tabs for adjusting the fit and vision rubber complement the unique performance and aesthetics of this new radical model.
  • The zonal stretch knit upper is breathable, durable and washable
  • SCARPA's patented Vision rubber provides grip and durability
  • Durable flat construction for all-day comfort and performance
  • Dual feed strap closure allows for maximum adjustment

La Sportiva Men's Finale Climbing Shoe

La Sportiva

Product description

One day you'll be crushing like the best of them, but until then, learn the art of sending in the La Sportiva Men's Finale Climbing Shoe. This beginner-styled shoe features La Sportiva's long-lasting P3 Permanent Power Platform to keep you climbing in this pair for seasons. Its tensioned heel rand and power hinge ensures a high-end edging performance that legendary climbers could appreciate. The Vibram XS Edge sole is La Sportiva's go-to rubber, for even the most aggressive climbing shoes, and the LaspoFlex midsole is neither too soft nor too stiff, but juuuuust right.

  • Lace-Up closure
  • Excellent for all-day comfort and reliable performance, the Finale is a lace-up rock shoe that is equally at home in the gym or the crag.
  • Unlined leather upper for a soft, comfortable fit
  • Tensioned heel rand and powerhinge for high-end edging performance
  • 5mm Vibram XS Edge sticky rubber outsole

User questions & answers

Question: I normally wear a women’s size 8, what size should I get these in
Answer: Hello, I recommend getting a women's 7.5 - they will stretch a half size. Best, Gear Coop

Climb X Crush Lace - Gray - 2020 Rock Climbing/Bouldering Shoe

Based on 33 reviews Check latest price
  • Rubber sole
  • Synthetic
  • X-Factor Sticky Rubber Sole; Padded Ankle Cuff
  • Rubber Wrapped Sticky Heel
  • Breathable Mesh Padded Tongue

User questions & answers

Question: Are these men’s or women’s sizes
Answer: Hello! a 42.5 EU is a 9.5 US size. Evolv shoes can run a half to a full size smaller than normal, this shoe in particular. Also, keep in mind these are leather.

Five Ten Gambit VCS

adidas

Based on 169 reviews Check latest price

Product description

  • The Gambit VCS from Five Ten® blends easy comfort and technical precision for a reliable climbing shoe.
  • Designed for comfort on long routes, trad climbing, slab climbing, gym climbing, and beginner to intermediate rock climbers.
  • Leather upper with minimal stretch.
  • Hook-and-loop closure for easy adjustability.
  • Perforated Ariaprene tongue helps keep your feet cool.
  • Rounded toe box.
  • Breathable cotton lining.
  • Molded thermoplastic midsole for stiffness.
  • Stealth® C4™ 4.2mm rubber outsole combined friction and durability for incredible all-around performance on any surface.
  • Made in the U.S.A.
  • Measurements:
    • Weight: 10 oz
  • Product measurements were taken using size 12, width D - Medium. Please note that measurements may vary by size.
  • Weight of footwear is based on a single item, not a pair.

  • Rubber sole
  • IMPORTANT SIZING INFO: These fit small, consider ordering 1 full size up or a range to find your fit

Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoe - Men's

Black Diamond Equipment

Product description

Designed to provide unparalleled comfort for all day cragging and gym sessions, the Momentum is a two-strap Velcro shoe that combines innovative technology with a classic, flat-last design to create an entry-level shoe that excels in performance. With an upper fabric that consists entirely of our Engineered Knit Technology, the Momentum provides stretch where you need it, support where it matters and all around exceptional breathability. We've also added a micro-fiber liner to the front of the shoe to minimize stretch and maximize comfort. The Momentum's durable, NeoFriction rubber is unique in that it's molded-inspired by the way we forge our carabiners-versus cut from one sheet of rubber. This is our engineered solution to optimize our shoe's rubber and rands for weight, consistency and comfort. Built for all-day comfort on moderate routes, boulders or gym sessions, the Momentum features a soft-flex midsole for sensitivity and is the perfect entry level climbing shoe.

  • Rubber
  • Black Diamond Equipment: Designing and constructing the world's best climbing, skiing & mountain gear since 1957

User questions & answers

Question: Looking to buy a shoe for my girlfriend and she wears a size 5 in kids for her converse. Would a size 6 or 6.5 climbing shoe fit her
Answer: Depends on homuch you are going to be wearing them if you are going to the gym or out in the open. And if you are an entry level climber or a more advanced climber
Question: Would these shoes be good to climb a 8 ft wooden wall for law enforcement qualifications
Answer: If that’s you’re street shoe. I’d say get these about a half size smaller cause they do stretch quite a bit once they are worn in. I wish I would of gone down a size cause I ended up progressing past the point of what these shoes could handle very quickly because they became so loose at my heel I lost confidence on foot holds.
Question: what is the life span of these climbing shoes
Answer: These are women's sizes and run small.
Question: im new to this sport, im imm a size 11 us in lets say adidas, what size should i go for in rockclimbing shoes
Answer: I have two pairs. One black, one forest. I don't know if they are technically waterproof, but mine have gotten wet and I just wipe them off and they are fine. The blacks are one of my favorite shoes of all time.

Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe 2018 (6, Gray)

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A great all around comfortable shoe that is precise enough for your next gym session. Features double stitch construction, padded collar and heel, polypropylene midsole and one-piece binding. Size up for a comfort fit and size down for a more aggressive performance fit but keep in mind that climbing shoes are supposed to fit very tight and at a minimum your toes should be touching the end of the shoe. Your toes will be curled a bit if you buy a size down for a more performance fit. The shoes come pre downsized! We recommend for new climbers to go up a FULL size from their street shoe size.

  • Please refer to the Sizing Chart for Recommended Size.
  • Padded Collar and Heel for Comfort.

Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe 2019 (Purple

Based on 24 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Brand new Rave Purple 2020 High Performance Rock Climbing Shoe. A great all around comfortable shoe that is precise enough for your next gym session. Features double stitch construction, padded collar and heel, polypropylene midsole and one-piece binding. Size up for a comfort fit and size down for a more aggressive performance fit but keep in mind that climbing shoes are supposed to fit very tight and at a minimum your toes should be touching the end of the shoe. Your toes will be curled a bit if you buy a size down for a more performance fit. The shoes come pre downsized! We recommend for new climbers to go up a FULL size from their street shoe size.

User questions & answers

Question: Hi , if i wear us10, uk9, eur 43, jpn 28, which size should i choose? thank you
Answer: The serial number or model number on the tv should help you find the right one.
Question: Is this in Men's size or Women's
Answer: Hello, Thank you very much for your interest, Yes, if you mean the ITALY plug (Type L : Parallel 3-pin) : yes our adapter will support it, there is three wholes inputs as shown on picture. Sincerely,
Question: Hi , if i use us10, uk9, eur 43, jpn, which size should i choose? thank you
Answer: Hello, Thank you very much for your interest, Yes this variant is only 1 pack, but please check the other options, we have pack of 3 and pack of 5 and also other colors, please just select the correct variation! Sincerely,

La Sportiva Men's Aragon Rock Climbing Shoe

La Sportiva

Product description

Answering the call of climbers who prize comfort and utility and are looking for an affordable upgrade from their entry-level climbing shoes. The Aragon: a capable, soft unlined leather climbing shoe with a fast dual hook and loop closure system.

Evolv Defy Climbing Shoe - Men's

Evolv

Based on 111 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The classic Evolv Defy gets a major upgrade for 2017. Not only does it have a fresh new look, but features an improved, more anatomical fit. The new high quality upper material, Synthratek VX, offers a soft but secure fit.

  • A major upgrade to Evolv's all time best selling shoe
  • New mesh to eliminate odor
  • Improved fit
  • New upper material, Synthratek VX, for a soft feel and secure fit
  • Fresh new look

User questions & answers

Question: Looking for a strongman truck pulling shoe I saw other competitors but never tried, would these shoes give me extra grip for a truck pull event
Answer: Dear, Thanks for your inquiry. it works fine for the LG 42v85600.
Question: I've been seeing different size-up suggestions between .5 to 2 sizes up. I know they should be tight. What size should I get
Answer: Wery mice. I used...
Question: I wear 6.5 womens size. What size should I buy this men' size shoes
Answer: Yes, it fits.
Question: I dont understand what the D stands for in the sizes... I wear a women's 7.5 - what size should I buy
Answer: Wery nice...

Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe 2019

Based on 431 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A great all around comfortable shoe that is precise enough for your next gym session. Features double stitch construction, padded collar and heel, polypropylene midsole and one-piece binding. Size up for a comfort fit and size down for a more aggressive performance fit but keep in mind that climbing shoes are supposed to fit very tight and at a minimum your toes should be touching the end of the shoe. Your toes will be curled a bit if you buy a size down for a more performance fit. The shoes come pre downsized! We recommend for new climbers to go up a FULL size from their street shoe size.

  • Please refer to the Sizing Chart for Recommended Size.
  • Padded Collar and Heel for Comfort.

User questions & answers

Question: My toes dont touch the tip of the toe area.. its short by 0.5 inches.. are they too big for me? should i downsize 0.5? from a 9.5 to
Answer: Mine are super snug, but are not touching the end perfectly. You should be good. But too much slack is lost grip. I'd say mine are 1/2 inch or less.
Question: Can you walk in these shoes
Answer: Yes. Ideally though you change into to other shoes when you aren’t rock climbing to preserve the shoe for the rock.
Question: do you get a pair of shoes or do I order
Answer: They are a pair of shoes.
Question: Are these vegan
Answer: No, they are leather on top

Black Diamond Momentum Lace Climbing Shoe - Men's

Black Diamond Equipment

Product description

Featuring Engineered Knit Technology for exceptional breathability and Black Diamonds innovative proprietary molded rubber, the Momentum Lace is built for ultimate comfort and excels in performance. Designed as the perfect entry-level climbing shoe, this lace-up shoe provides ultimate adjustability for all day comfort at the gym or crag.

  • Rubber
  • Lace-Up closure
  • Black Diamond Equipment: Designing and constructing the world's best climbing, skiing & mountain gear since 1957

User questions & answers

Question: How do these fit on long and narrow feet? Thanks
Answer: If the interfaces are the same, depending on the power of your device, it is safe to use within 1500w
Question: Are these womens or mens
Answer: Yes, work for sony tv model kdl-46z4100
Question: is the sizing for these identical to the sizing for the velcro model
Answer: This charger would work with Casio LK-220. You can buy this one!
Question: How is the sizing in these shoes , should I go a size up or down
Answer: yes, It work with samsung model ln32a330j1d

La Sportiva Men's TarantuLace Performance Rock Climbing Shoe

La Sportiva

Based on 605 reviews Check latest price
  • FAST LACING SYSTEM - Quick-pull lacing harness allows for precise regulation of inner volumes; Wrapping the foot snugly for excellent support, fit, and comfort
  • ALL-AROUND PERFORMANCE - Designed to help intermediate climbers smear, hook, and edge like pros; The aggressive rubber heel rand, sticky FriXion RS rubber soles, and low-asymmetry RN45 build let climbers find purchase on edges with great sensitivity and without pain or cramping
  • CLIMB IN COMFORT - From the gym to the crags, the classic unlined leather upper is soft and comfortable; Lined tongue controls moisture and enhances breathability; Synthetic leather overlay adds just the right level of support
  • BUILT TO LAST - This indoor/outdoor climbing shoe is constructed from high quality materials; 1.8mm LaspoFlex at the midsole and 5mm FriXion RS at the sole make the TarantuLace as stable as it is durable
  • TIPS FOR BUYING - Rock climbing shoes are designed to fit differently than other footwear; Be sure to reference the La Sportiva size chart in the product images for more accurate sizing; The fit should be tight, but not painful, and without pressure points

User questions & answers

Question: I usually wear 45 EU size, and i see here people say the sizing is too high and other say its too small. So which size should I buy
Answer: I normally wear a 44 EU (10 US) and I bought them that size. I wish I would have gotten a half size smaller (43 or 42 EU) because they do run a little big.
Question: Are these for pros
Answer: I wouldn't call them pro shoes, but they are great shoes in general. The rubber is not very hard and not very soft, and the shoe is not down-turned, so it's a great shoe for beginner or mid-level climbers to climb with a variety of styles.
Question: Why does the size chart differ from other sources
Answer: La Sportiva shoes generally use the euro sizing chart and tend to run big. I would suggest going down a full size from other climbing shoes on the market. I normally wear 8 to 8.5 in other climbing shoes but La Sportiva I wear 7 to 7.5. You can always buy several pairs and return the ones that don't fit. I hope this info helps you with making a buying decision.
Question: I wear size 8 u.s. should i get the same size in rock climbing shoes? or one size bigger? or half size smaller
Answer: Hi There, Climbing shoes are designed to fit tight, almost like a second skin. If you are new to climbing, a comfortable fit is most important. I would recommend going a half size down from your street shoe. In all honesty, I would order a couple of different sizes and return the ones that do not fit. You are looking for a very snug fit that does not hurt your foot. Please be aware that these shoes will stretch around a half of a size over time, so remember to size accordingly. I hope this helps!

Product features

The Peak of Comfort & Versatility

The TarantuLace is an unlined leather climbing shoe with asymmetric shape for advanced performance. The shape is great for upper end performance without hurting your toes. The synthetic leather lacing harness adds great support for entry to mid level climbers and the unlined leather is comfortable and soft. The aggressive rubber heel rand lets you stand in micro edges and the FriXion RS rubber is hard wearing yet sticky. This is great shoe for climbers that need a one-quiver shoe to do it all.

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