Climbing shoes: the slippers

Camber and asymmetry

A climbing shoe can be understood by its shape. Flat and symmetrical, like the Red Chili Circuit, the Ocun Rental or the Evolv Defy, it is comfortable and suitable for beginners and long routes. Curved and asymmetrical, like the La Sportiva Solution, Skwama or the Evolv Phantom, it focuses the force on the big toe to hook onto holds in overhangs and bouldering. In between the two, versatile models, like the La Sportiva Katana or Miura, excel on small holds on slabs and vertical walls.

Climbing on site

Climbing also includes:

• Harnesses.
• Ropes.
• Accessories, quickdraws, carabiners and chalk.
• Baggage.
• Textiles.

Models that made an impact

The La Sportiva Mythos, with its enveloping lacing, is a classic appreciated for its comfort on long routes. The TC Pro was designed with Tommy Caldwell for big granite walls, featuring a higher shaft that protects the ankle in cracks. The very flexible models Theory and Ondra Comp are made for the volumes in climbing gyms and modern bouldering. The Cobra and Kubo are quick to put on between attempts.

Closure and sizing

The lacing adjusts the shoe along the entire length of the foot; the strap allows for quick on and off, which is handy for bouldering; the slipper, with no closure, hugs the foot and feels more connected. A climbing shoe is typically worn smaller than a regular shoe, with toes slightly curled, but a beginner should stick closer to their size to climb without pain. Leather shoes stretch over time, while synthetics stretch much less. Women's models, like the Katana or Miura for women, have a narrower heel.

Shoes should be stored in a bag separately, aired out after each session, away from sunlight and heat that can degrade the rubber. When the rubber wears at the toe, resoling extends the life of a good shoe.

Good deals

Good deals can also be found in good plans, promotions, clearance, sales, and Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent out within 24 hours. The highlights of the year come in a consistent order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by summer sales and back to school.

Frequently asked questions

Which climbing shoe is good for beginners?

A flat and symmetrical shoe, comfortable right from the fitting, like the Red Chili Circuit or the Evolv Defy, allows you to learn foot placements without discomfort. You switch to a more cambered model as you improve.

Should climbing shoes be painful?

They should be snug without being painful: toes flat or slightly curled for a beginner. Performance shoes are tighter, but sharp pain prevents climbing and feeling the holds properly.

How many sizes down should you take your climbing shoes?

It depends on the material: a leather shoe will stretch by half to a size, while a synthetic will stretch very little. For beginners, stay close to your regular shoe size; more experienced climbers go down more for precision.

How to wash climbing shoes?

Wash them by hand with lukewarm water and a mild soap, brushing the inside, never in a machine. Let them air dry away from sunlight and radiators, which harden the rubber and can detach the sole.

Which shoe for bouldering?

For bouldering, a soft and cambered shoe, with a strap for quick on and off between attempts, grabs holds on overhangs and makes heel hooking easier. The Skwama and Solution from La Sportiva are top choices.