12 best mens rock climbing shoes
Men's rock climbing shoes are specialized footwear designed to provide optimal performance and support for individuals engaging in rock climbing activities. These shoes play a crucial role in ensuring climbers have the necessary grip, sensitivity, and stability to tackle various climbing surfaces. Here are key aspects of men's rock climbing shoes:
Sole Construction:
- Climbing shoes have a unique sole construction, typically made of sticky rubber. The rubber material is designed to provide excellent traction on rock surfaces, ensuring a secure grip while climbing.
Shape and Design:
- Rock climbing shoes come in different shapes and designs, catering to various climbing styles. There are three main types: neutral, moderate, and aggressive. The choice depends on the level of climbing difficulty and personal preference.
Fit:
- Climbing shoes are designed to fit snugly on the foot. A snug fit is crucial for precision and control during climbs.Many climbers prefer a tighter fit to maximize sensitivity and responsiveness.
Closure Systems:
- Climbing shoes come with different closure systems, including lace-up, Velcro straps, and slip-on designs. The choice of closure system depends on individual preference and the type of climbing activity.
Sensitivity:
- Sensitivity is a crucial factor in climbing shoes, especially for more advanced climbers. A sensitive shoe allows the climber to feel the rock surface and make precise movements. This is particularly important for technical climbs.
Downturn:
- The downturn refers to the curvature of the shoe. Neutral shoes have a flatter profile, while aggressive shoes have a more pronounced downturn. The downturn influences the shoe's performance on different types of rock features.
Breathability:
- While not the primary focus, some climbing shoes incorporate breathable materials to enhance comfort during prolonged climbs. However, the emphasis is usually on the shoe's performance rather than breathability.
Usage and Specialization:
- Climbing shoes are designed for different types of climbing, including bouldering, sport climbing, trad climbing, and indoor climbing. Specialized shoes are tailored to the specific demands of each type of climbing.
Materials:
- Climbing shoes are typically made of leather or synthetic materials. Leather shoes may stretch over time, providing a custom fit, while synthetic shoes often maintain their shape.
Resoling:
- Many climbers opt to resole their climbing shoes once the original sole wears out. This extends the life of the shoes and allows climbers to maintain their preferred footwear.
Brand and Model Variations:
- Numerous brands offer a variety of models with different features. Climbers often experiment with different brands and models to find the shoe that best suits their climbing style and preferences.
In summary, men's rock climbing shoes are specialized footwear designed for optimal performance and safety during rock climbing activities. The choice of shoe depends on factors such as climbing style, level of difficulty, and individual preferences in terms of fit and design.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best mens rock climbing shoes on the market
Five Ten Gambit VCS
adidas
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
La Sportiva Men's TarantuLace Performance Rock Climbing Shoe
La Sportiva
- 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.
Evolv Nighthawk Climbing Shoe - Men's
Evolv
Product description
Evolv's latest and greatest all-rounder. The Evolv Nighthawk is built on an updated last that fits all climbers from beginners to advanced.
- Upper Material: leather (overlays) synthetic
- Lining: Agion anti-odor formula
- Closure: lace
- Midsole: MX-P (1.4mm, full-length)
- Rubber: Trax SAS high-friction rubber (4.2mm)
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the size much smaller than street shoes |
| Answer: | Please check out the comments on the Amazon page about sizing from others who have purchased these shoes. Also, you can search the web for, "Evolv Shkyhawk fit," and find information about fitment. In our experience, people usually tend to choose a size up from their street shoe size. |
| Question: | I wear a 42.5 EU, can you tell me what size I would order in this shoe |
| Answer: | Hi there! The shoes are blue (the tongue and some other detailing), light pink (the bulk of the shoe), and white (detailing) |
Black Diamond Mens Momentum Lace Climbing Shoes
Black Diamond Equipment
User questions & answers
| Question: | What size should I get if my shoe size is a |
| Answer: | I would go a size up from your normal size |
La Sportiva Solution Climbing Shoe - Men's
La Sportiva
Product description
The Men's Solution Climbing Shoe is La Sportiva's most popular answer to difficult boulder problems and steep sport routes. Drastically downturned, this shoe is one of the best for overhangs, scummy heel hooks, greasy smears, and microscopic edges. La Sportiva's revered P3 Power Platform was first developed specifically for this shoe, and it retains the shoe's aggressive downturn until after you blow through the rubber. A shoe this technical deserves its own special rubber compound, and it's one of the few out there to feature Vibram's XS Grip2 rubber, which is extremely stiff around the toe box and soft, supple, and thin at the heel and arch. With more flexibility at the heel, the Solution bends to your will when you're toeing off-angled footholds and high-stepping the top-out.This Solution has a modernly refined, 3D-shaped heel cup that keeps a solid fit no matter how scummy that heel hook feels. The Lock Harness System wraps the leather upper snugly around your foot for a customized feel that stretches only slightly, and the Lorica tongue adds subtle padded cushioning and ventilation. The Solution might sport the speediest closure out of any climbing shoe; its Fast Lacing System uses one hook-and-loop strap that cinches three separate sections for a snug fit that's ready to go on-and-off after each boulder attempt.
- Upper Material: leather, Lorica
- Lining: [toe box, arch] HF
- Closure: hook-and-loop, Face Lacing System
- Midsole: [toe] LaspoFlex (1.1mm)
- Rubber: Vibram XS Grip2 (4mm)
User questions & answers
| Question: | how much will it stretch |
| Answer: | Im my experience, about half of an EU size - give or take a little. Humidity and environment seem to matter. It has been very humid here. More stretch. |
Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe 2019
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: | They are a pair of shoes. |
| Question: | Can you walk in these shoes |
| Answer: | No, they are leather on top |
| Question: | do you get a pair of shoes or do I order |
| 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 vegan |
| 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. |
Five Ten Men's Asym VCS Climbing Shoe
Product description
- The versatile Five Ten® Asym VCS climbing shoe is ideal for beginners seeking reliable performance and also for advanced climbers looking for long-lasting comfort.
- Leather upper conforms to the foot.
- Asymmetrical hook-and-loop closure for easy adjustability and a secure fit.
- Unlined interior for a lighter weight feel and a roomier fit.
- Features a moderate downturn and a medium-stiff midsole that allows for easy technical moves.
- Stealth® C4™ rubber outsole combined friction and durability for incredible all-around performance on any surface.
- Imported.
- 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
- Versatile shoes for sport climbing and bouldering
- Regular fit
- Asymmetrical hook-and-loop closure system
- Unlined leather upper
- Textile lining; Stealth C4 rubber outsole for unbeatable grip
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 |
SCARPA Arpia Climbing Shoes - SS20
Scarpa
Product description
Scarpa Arpia Climbing Shoes Simple, sensitive and designed for those looking to transition from a traditional flat to a performance fit, the Arpia is softer than our Vapor V and more aggressive than our Force V. Microsuede Upper Constructed using a microsuede upper, the Scarpa Vapour V Climbing Shoes are worthy of any outdoor adventure. Designed to provide the right amount of flexibility and support, the upper conforms to the shape of the foot yet, retains its elasticity for a better, more supportive fit. The microsuede upper ensures the shoes hold their shape for long that other leather equivalents plus, its soft on the skin for complete comfort. The heel is bonded directly to the outsole meaning you get the same level of support and durability in the heel as you do in the outsole. Working with the heel is a toe rand which ensures added durability and protects your feet from knocks and scrapes. Lastly, the Arpia Climbing Shoes feature a WSS closure system to provide added midfoot support. The closure system spreads pressure across the upper allowing for greater volume adjustment. Talyn Midsole The midsole of the Scarpa Arpia Climbing Shoes is specially designed to ensure maximum support with added flex. The Talyn midsole is 1.5mm thick to ensure a level of support that doesn't compromise on weight. Added flexibility in the rearfoot makes for great smearing whilst added support in the forefoot allows you to cling on to the smallest footholds. The midsole actively spreads the force for sustained periods on technical face climbs. The Arpia is moderately downturned to allow your feet to form a position that's best for climbing. A V-Tension rand works in connection with the outsole to ensure the perfect position for climbing. V-Tension supports the toe area while also allows enough flex for smearing. Vibram Outsole Develeoped using a Vibram XS Grip 2 Outsole, the Scarpa Arpia Climbing Shoes ensure maximum support whether you're outdoor, indoor or lead climb
- 100% Microsuede
- Imported
- Rubber sole
- PCB Active Randing provides lightweight power transfer
- 1/3 length Vibram XS Grip 2 makes thse shoes stick like glue
- Perfect for bouldering, and overhanging sport climbing
- Microsuede upper wrapped in a T45 rand provides strength, elasticity, and friction
User questions & answers
| Question: | Are these 6.5 mens or womens |
| Answer: | I'm believe they're a men's size. I'm male and purchased a 9.5. That said, as great as the shoes are, the sizes are 'off' somewhat if you're American, and what I ultimately needed was a full size larger. Part of this is the snugness of climbing shoes in general, but I think that it was mostly the fact that the European conversion of sizes is a little skewed. Nevertheless, they're the best climbing shoes I've owned. Once broken in, they're fantastic. Hope this helps. |
| Question: | I’m new to climbing about 2 months in, I have been using evolve defys in 7.5. Do you guys think 7.5 will be perfect for me? Thank you |
| Answer: | I wouldn’t recommend these to a beginner. They are pretty thin and soft (may hurt to climb). But mine are sized aggressively about 1.5 sizes small European. Which about a 1 size smalller than my street shoe size. They also ran a little narrow for me. |
| Question: | I'm confused, are those the Drago or Arpia |
| Answer: | The Arpia. Always trust the description, not the photos. |
La Sportiva Men's Solution Comp Rock Climbing Shoes
La Sportiva
- Rubber sole
- THE CLASSIC, REDESIGNED - La Sportiva's Solution has been solving climbing's most complicated problems for over a decade, and the Solution Comp Climbing Shoe showcases the first significant redesign since its inception; More rubber around the toe is the most obvious update, but despite all the extra rubber, the Solution Comp feels significantly softer and more sensitive than the original
- CLIMB HIGHER - The Solution Comp retains the same aggressive profile, Vibram's XS Grip 2 rubber, and La Sportiva's original P3 Power Platform, but the enhanced softness and sensitivity ensure a greater performance for modern, competition climbing
- FAST LACING SYSTEM - Quick-pull lacing harness allows for precise regulation of inner volumes; Wrapping the foot snugly for excellent support, fit, and comfort
- AWARD-WINNING - The Solution Comp has already earned the Editor's Choice award from Climbing Magazine, who noted that the gym-focused Solution Comp features a softer midsole, bigger scumming patch, and narrower heel than the original—and was a runaway hit with testers; It breaks in quicker than the OG model and performs better on volumes and smears
- 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: | Are these Italian or Chinese made |
| Answer: | Italian - very well made shoes. I climb in both the Solutions and Solution Comps, and have worn Cobras (their old slipper). My only complaint over the years, and it has been inconsistent, is the failure of the Velcro strap - even on my young daughter’s Sportiva youth shoes they’ve periodically torn out making it impossible to cinch the shoes down |
Product features
The Peak of Comfort & Versatility
The Solution Comp is a softer and more sensitive re-boot on the original fan-favorite. With more rubber coverage on top of the toe and a more traditional, tapered heel, the Comp allows surgical precision on micro holds, enables powerful toe hooks and foot jams and provides super precise heel-toe camming performance.
Five Ten Men's Anasazi Moccasym Climbing Shoe
Five Ten
Product description
Five Ten, the Brand of the Brave, is a leader in performance, high-friction footwear. From downhill mountain bike racing to rock climbing, from wing suit flying to kayaking, Five Ten makes footwear for the world's most dangerous sports. The Redlands, California-based company has been producing cutting-edge designs and proprietary Stealth rubber soles for nearly 30 years. With the help of top national and international athletes and guides, combined with a world-class rubber-testing and R&D facility, Five Ten is the shoe brand of choice for the world's most exciting athletes.
- Split-grain Leather
- Made in the USA and Imported
- Rubber sole
- Triple pull tabs
- Side-exit heel seam
- Slingshot heel
- Stealth C4 rubber 4.2mm
User questions & answers
| Question: | The moccasyms say Men, but have any women worn them and do they fit ok? Do they only fit well if your feet are wide |
| Answer: | I'm a man so the only information I can give is what I've heard from others. A friend borrowed my shoes and was able to use them just fine. My feet aren't particularly wide and I had no issues (except for getting a size larger than I should have) I would recommend trying them on in person before you buy them. A good thing to keep in mind is these will stretch up to a size bigger than they are. Mine ended up too loose for extremely small footholds after some use. I bought my normal shoe size. I mainly bouldered in these and climbed a Max of only v2. Hopefully this can help. |
La Sportiva Men's OXYGYM Climbing Shoe
La Sportiva
Product description
This climbing shoe is breathable and durable, with a breathable upper that is excellent for moisture management and super comfortable on your foot all day. The AirTex Silver lining helps to reduce odor. The shoe is completely WASHABLE so it's ideal for gyms and any climber that is looking to wash the funk off! The highly adjustable closure system adapts to multiple foot types and shapes. DO NOT PUT IN THE DRYER! AIR DRY ONLY!
- 3-Layer WashTex external fabric keeps the shoe clean and hygienic
- Internal breathable fabric allows for moisture wicking
- Super comfortable for extended use
- Patented hook and loop closure system allows for a personalized fit
- Ideal terrain: Gym climbing and all around climbing
User questions & answers
| Question: | can any of the sellers offer a size |
| Answer: | We have the 44 in stock at OMCgear. |
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