Since you’re here, you must be interested in climbing. Speaking of climbing, we love climbing shoes, and we bet you do too! Whether you’re just starting out or a more experienced climber, shoes can make or break your climb. Of course, they’re not like your regular running shoes. These shoes will keep you safe and can enhance how you climb. But just like many other pieces of climbing gear, there are tons of shoes on the market right now. Plus, because there are so many types of climbs and everyone has different feet, it can be quite difficult to narrow down your options. However, there’s no need to worry! Here, we’ll show you all the best climbing shoes for men available out there and what to look for when buying a new pair of the best rock climbing shoes for men!
How To Choose The Best Climbing Shoes for Men
Compared to the best tennis shoes for men and the best walking shoes for travel, the process of selecting climbing shoes for men requires a little bit more attention. To get the right pair, make sure you read the following guide!
Types of climbing shoes
It’s important to know what type of climbing you’ll be doing as well as the terrain when choosing your shoes, as there are a variety of options for every situation.
- Sport: For sport climbing, your shoes need to have a stiff midsole, quality edging platform, a tight heel cup, and ideally a lace closure. A pair of stiff shoes with a moderate downturn will make it easier to scale vertical climbs.
- Trad: Since you’ll likely be doing many jamming in cracks, the ideal shoes should have a relaxed fit, laces, and a stiff midsole while giving you solid ankle protection. They should also have little to no toe or heel rubber as well as downturn. But if you tend to do more difficult or steep routes, then you might prefer more downturn.
- Bouldering: First of all, know that these shoes aren’t designed to be comfortable. They’re made to help you climb well on steep terrain and make sure you can stick to tiny incuts, heel hook, and toe hook. These shoes will also have a hybrid closure, a solid amount of toe rubber, and an aggressive downturn. They’re also more sensitive to help with feeling the rocks.
Downturn
This feature is also important when choosing the best climbing shoes for slab. Downturn determines the amount of curve in the sole of a shoe and will be categorized as flat, moderate, or aggressive. In general, aggressive shoes perform well on steep rock, and flat shoes shine on vertical to less-than-vertical terrain.
Stiffness
There’s no right or wrong when it comes to stiffness, as so much of this depends on preference. Some prefer a pair of ultra-soft shoes, while others prefer stiffer models. One that for sure, a pair of stiff shoes offers more support for the foot. If you’re just getting into the sport, you might want to start with stiff to medium-stiff shoes until your feet grow stronger. Soft shoes are more sensitive and flexible, and your feet will have to do much of the work to support themselves.
Closure
In general, there are 3 types of closures:
- Velcro: These are super easy to take on and off, so they’re usually loved by those who need to get in and out of their shoes often. Sport climbing, bouldering, and indoor climbing are the places you’ll most often see these closures. However, they can come apart while climbing and it may hinder you while toe hooking.
- Laces: If you’re going to be doing repetitive jamming, go with laces. They’re much better suited in cracks than Velcro. Laces also allow you to dial in an incredibly precise fit.
- Slipper: If comfort and convenience are your priorities, then this type of closure is for you. They generally correlate with soft shoes that excel on friction slabs and in cracks. However, you should know that they do stretch over time.
Upper
The upper is the part of the shoe that rests along the top and sides of your foot. It’s made from either leather or synthetic materials. Leather upper will stretch over time, adjust to your feet, and feels comfortable. Meanwhile, a synthetic upper will maintain its original dimension even after the shoe is well broken in.
Are climbing shoes bad for your feet?
If you get the right pair, no they’re not. They are relatively tight at first, but they should never make your feet hurt, especially if you’ve had a chance to break them in for several weeks.
Is bouldering harder than rock climbing?
Well, it depends. Overall, rock climbing is harder for beginners who struggle with fear of heights. Meanwhile, bouldering is more of a challenge for beginners who lack finger and upper-body strength.
La Sportiva Men’s Kataki Climbing Shoes
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The La Sportiva Men’s Kataki Climbing Shoes are a great combination of technical peculiarities and prolonged comfort. By wearing these climbing shoes for men, you’ll be able to tackle almost every obstacle in your way without cracking or snapping. This is enabled by the built-in aggressive downturn and low profile toe box, both of which allow for a smooth yet tough performance.
Apart from that, you’ll also find the rubber sole of these shoes quite stiff and durable as it features the Vibram XS Edge element, just like other La Sportiva shoes on this list. Plus, with the innovative S-Heel, there’s no way you won’t be able to complete your climb with minimum to no exhaustion. Thanks to these shoes, long climbing days ahead of you are no longer an issue.
What We Love
A great pair of climbing shoes for men that’s suitable for long climbing sessions.
Pros:
- Amazing lacing system
- Toe box with a low volume profile
- S-Hell makes it easy to hook the heel
- Vibram XS Edge for better grip
- Durable
Cons:
- Not the most comfortable option for all-day climbs
Black Diamond Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes
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If you consider yourself new to climbing and aren’t willing to spend several hundred on a new pair of climbing shoes for men, then you should consider purchasing the Black Diamond Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes. That’s because they’re pretty affordable compared to other best climbing shoes for slab. But despite that, they still offer many great features that will make climbing very fun.
These shoes are particularly exceptional for gym bouldering and climbing that are often practiced by entry-level climbers. Plus, the knit fabric makes the shoes feel super comfortable to break in. Not to mention, the flat last will keep your toes in a neutral position that allows you to train all day long. Even better, these shoes are available in many different sizes, so you’re guaranteed to find a pair that suits your feet well.
What We Love
A durable pair of climbing shoes for beginners that won’t break the bank.
Pros:
- Easy to use hook-and-loop straps
- Affordable
- Available in many sizes
- Durable construction
- Beginners-friendly
Cons:
- Don’t have many high-end features
Evolv Phantom Men’s Climbing Shoes
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The Evolv Phantom Men’s Climbing Shoes are another pair of climbing shoes for men that we want to recommend. These shoes’ highly aggressive asymmetry and downturn, full-coverage rubber toe cap, and 6-point compression closure system are just some of the amazing features that many people adore. Not to mention, they fit your feet so well like gloves.
These shoes are also armed with the Variable Thickness Rand, which is thinner in some areas to prevent pressure points. Meanwhile, the thicker areas will increase longevity. Finally, they also have the Dark Spine S heel, which is the combination of the Dark Spine midsole and a thinner 2mm heel outsole to give the optimal structure and sensitivity for technical heel-hooking.
What We Love
These shoes’ aggressiveness and features make them a pretty great pick for outdoor bouldering and climbing.
Pros:
- Highly aggressive asymmetry and downturn
- 6-point compression closure system
- Variable Thickness Rand
- Dark Spine S heel
- Snug fit
Cons:
- Not an ideal choice for long climbing sessions
BUTORA Unisex Acro Rock/Indoor Climbing Shoes
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The next pair of the best climbing shoes for slab that we’re about to introduce is the BUTARO Unisex Acro Rock/Indoor Climbing Shoes. These shoes are a super comfy and aggressive pair that’s equipped with ABS-injected midsoles to help maintain the downturn. There’s also a sticky rubber toe patch that does an incredibly good job at increasing sensitivity and grip when you’re toe hooking. To make sure you have all the power you need, these shoes also have high-tension heel rand.
If you’ve been struggling to find climbing shoes for men that fit you well, you should also consider these impressive shoes. That’s because they have an adjustable triple fork closure that can help you get that perfect fit you’ve been wanting while still being easy to get on and off. What are you waiting for? Purchase these shoes and climb with confidence!
What We Love
High-performing shoes with amazing comfort and build quality.
Pros:
- Aggressive downturn
- Durable construction
- ABS-injected midsoles
- Sticky rubber toe patch for increased sensitivity
- High-tension heel rand
Cons:
- Not an ideal pick for climbers with wide feet
La Sportiva Genius Climbing Shoes
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Our list of the best rock climbing shoes for men won’t ever be complete without this pair of shoes. Say hello to the La Sportiva Genius Climbing Shoes, a great option for indoor rock climbing. Regardless of where the rocks are, these shoes will help you get as high as you want to go. Weighing only 1lbs, these innovative shoes feature the No-Edge technology that offers you unmatched edging performance.
On top of that, there’s also the P3 patented technology that gives amazing power to the soles. Meanwhile, the uppers of these shoes are made from suede leather and the lace-up closure will allow them to fit well on all types of feet. If you don’t believe in these shoes, just give them a try! We’re sure one climb is all it takes to show you why they’re fancied by many people.
What We Love
A premium, high-performing pair of climbing shoes for men with many innovative features.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- No-Edge technology for great edging performance
- P3 patented technology
- Offer a snug fit
- Fast lacing system
Cons:
- Some sizing problems
Evolv Shaman Climbing Shoes
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The Evolv Shaman Climbing Shoes that you see right now are the redesigned version. As one of the best rock climbing shoes for men on the market, they have an improved fit and medial side toe scumming. You can also find plenty of features that increase these shoes’ durability, which includes the downturn shape and toe rands with different levels of thickness.
Aside from that, the hook-and-loop straps will also let your feet meet the shoe arch that allows these shoes to fit your feet well. Meanwhile, the synthetic suede upper can dry very quickly and help to resist stretch. Regardless of your thoughts on the previous model, these redesigned shoes are worth your money. And if you already have the previous model, it’s time to upgrade!
What We Love
A very great pair of technical shoes that feels very comfortable and tight-fitting.
Pros:
- Very durable
- Comfortable and breathable
- Quick-drying
- Offer a snug fit
- Great for advanced climbers
Cons:
- Not for beginners or first-timers
La Sportiva Men’s Finale Climbing Shoes
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Similar to tennis shoes for walking, usually, the more expensive the best climbing shoes for men, the better their quality. Thankfully, this rule doesn’t apply to the La Sportiva Men’s Finale Climbing Shoes. These affordable lace-ups come fitted with the same Vibram XS Edge rubber that you can find in other La Sportiva’s premium options. They’re also very durable, which is very impressive considering their affordable price tag.
These shoes’ tensioned heel rand and power hinge will also ensure a high-end edging performance that all climbers will appreciate. Plus, the LaspoFlex midsole is neither too soft nor too stiff, just how you like it. Considering all the features they offer, we’re sure beginners and casual climbers will particularly like these amazing shoes.
What We Love
An affordable yet high-quality option for beginners and casual climbers.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Vibram XS Edge rubber
- Very durable
- Great edging performance
- Beginner-friendly
Cons:
- Some find them too tight
Butora Men’s Endeavor Rock Climbing Shoes
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Those who are looking for versatile climbing shoes for men without sacrificing performance will definitely like the Butora Men’s Endeavor Rock Climbing Shoes. They’re a great choice for beginners and can make them perform like an expert! Giving you amazing precision and power throughout your climbs, these shoes have a natural fit to them and the triple fork webbing allows them to fit specifically to your feet.
Furthermore, these shoes’ split leather footbeds will also increase the overall performance and comfort. Meanwhile, the interior contains an organically grown hemp lining that’s designed to help control odor and stretch. No matter what your climbing style, these shoes are a great all-around performer that you definitely want to have.
What We Love
A great all-around pair of climbing shoes for men that offers a tight and comfy fit.
Pros:
- Very versatile
- Great for beginners
- Offer amazing precision and power
- Split leather footbeds for better performance
- Organically grown hemp lining to fight odor
Cons:
- Some people have complained that the sole isn’t that durable
La Sportiva Men’s TC Pro Climbing Shoes
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In case you’re wondering, the TC stands for Tommy Caldwell. Yes, the La Sportiva Men’s TC Pro Climbing Shoes are created in collaboration with the accomplished climber Tonny Caldwell. These shoes are specifically designed for edging and crack climbing. Of course, they’re of high quality. Even when your feet are jammed in a crack, your feet and ankles will be fully protected by the shoes’ foam padding.
We also like how these shoes come with cuffs to guard your ankles against scrapes. Furthermore, they enable your toes to lay flat and the ventilated tongues and perforations will help to increase airflow, so your feet can stay comfy and dry at all times. Even better, both men and women can wear these shoes and they’re available in plenty of sizes to choose from.
What We Love
If you’re primarily crack climbing, you’ll definitely love these shoes.
Pros:
- Good for crack climbing
- Great foam padding
- Cuffs to guard ankles against scrapes
- Highly breathable
- Available in many sizes
Cons:
- Not the most durable option
Scarpa Men’s Instinct VS Climbing Shoes
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Are you in need of power and sensitivity? If so, then the Scarpa Men’s Instinct VS Climbing Shoes are arguably the best rock climbing shoes for men you can buy right now. Also great for bouldering, these shoes come with Lorica synthetic leather uppers which prevent stretch and grippy soles to help when hooking on small features.
These shoes also have an aggressive downturn that’s made for steep to overhung rock. That’s not all, as they even have an innovative system that allows for maximum power in the big toe without the excess pain you usually get from other climbing shoes for men. Plus, the fit of these shoes can be easily customized, and the 2-part soles will give you incredible maneuverability on trickier routes. Weighing just 1.03lbs, you won’t regret buying these shoes.
What We Love
Aggressive shoes that offer amazing comfort and snug fit.
Pros:
- Also great for bouldering
- Lorica synthetic leather uppers
- Aggressive downturn
- Great maneuverability on tricker routes
- Offers a snug fit
Cons:
- Too small for some men
Five Ten Men’s Anasazi Climbing Shoes
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When it comes to the best rock climbing shoes for men, the Five Ten Men’s Anasazi Climbing Shoes will always make the list. That’s because they’re consistent all-around performance shoes that many climbers love. They’re very reliable and great for basically any type of climbs, but no one can deny that their performance for crack climbing and edging is unmatched. Plus, they’re stiff and supportive, and the C4 rubber will enable you to handle technical terrain like a pro.
You’ll also totally love the high heel tension that allows you to comfortably wear these climbing shoes for men all day. We also feel that these shoes are easy to adjust, and they’ll fit you perfectly thanks to the lace closures. Not to mention, the lined polyester uppers are designed not to stretch. So, if you want to successfully tackle challenging climbs with excellent precision, these shoes should be at the top of your list.
What We Love
A pair of high-friction climbing shoes for men that allow you to climb with great precision.
Pros:
- Great for any type of climbs
- Stiff and supportive
- High heel tension for better comfort
- Offer a snug fit
- Lined polyester uppers are designed not to stretch
Cons:
- Not that breathable
La Sportiva Katana Lace Climbing Shoes
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The La Sportiva Katana Lace Climbing Shoes are easily one of the most popular and versatile climbing shoes for men available out there, and we’d be remiss not to include them on this list. What everyone loves about these shoes is their ability to do everything well, be it crack climbing, smearing, slab climbing, you name it. Whether you’re tackling vertical terrain or less-than-vertical terrain, these shoes are one of the best tools for the job.
On top of that, these shoes have a considerable price tag, which is very hard to ignore. They also supply astounding edging power and precision in a downturned design that doesn’t require you to wholly abandon your comfort. Another thing that you’ll like is the narrow toe profile that solidifies these shoes’ credentials for both steep pocket pulling and thin crack climbing. Together with the stiff yet sensitive feel of the Vibram XS Edge sole, these shoes have to be your go-to choice for nearly any type of roped climbing.
What We Love
A very popular and versatile pair of climbing shoes for men with an affordable price tag.
Pros:
- Amazing edging power
- Comfortable lacing system
- Low volume toe
- Very versatile
- Affordable
Cons:
- The heel is a bit bulky
La Sportiva Men’s Miura Climbing Shoes
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It’s pretty tough not to be mesmerized by the La Sportiva Men’s Miura Climbing Shoes. These shoes are just that good. They have been considered as one of the best climbing shoes for slab for more than a decade, heralded for their versatility and reliability. Featuring a highly asymmetrical shape along with a flatter last, these shoes are an excellent choice for technical climbing on terrain ranging from overhanging steeps to slabs.
Similar to the La Sportiva Katana, these shoes also boast the Vibram XS Edge sole that provides unrivaled grip and support, allowing you to stick the tiniest of holds. That’s not all, as they feature the innovative Powerhinge system too. This feature is great to control and minimize forward stretch. There’s also a Slingshot Rand to transfer power to your toes for enhanced edging control.
What We Love
A classic pick for climbers that are looking for comfortable and do-it-all climbing shoes.
Pros:
- Fast lacing system
- Versatile
- Vibram XS Edge sole for better grip
- Powerhinge system to minimize forward stretch
- Slingshot Rand for better edging control
Cons:
- Too small for some people
