Best Climbing Shoes of 2023

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent edging performance
• Great sensitivity
• Sturdy and durable
• Well-designed for competitions
• Comfortable and precise fit

Reasons to Avoid

• Pricey than other models
• Not ideal for crack climbing
• May be uncomfortable for wider feet

The Important Specs

• Lining: Unlined
• Closure: Fast lacing system
• Sole Rubber: Vibram XS Grip2
• Upper Material: Leather / Microfiber

Review Roundup

The La Sportiva Solution Comp is a force to be reckoned with in the climbing shoe world. Its aggressive design is crafted with dedicated climbers in mind. The downsized, asymmetric shape alongside a supremely grippy Vibram XS Grip2 rubber sole offers unparalleled precision on the rocks.

One defining feature that caught the attention of many users is the highly adjustable Fast Lacing System. It basically morphs the shoe to the user's foot, offering an impressive, almost custom level of fit. It's a tight shoe, but the cinching system serves to alleviate, rather than exacerbate, potential pain points. This could be a real game changer for climbers with unique feet.

The toe hooking capabilities in the Solution Comp are highly regarded. Thanks to the rubberized upper, users are able to hook and grab with more ease. The heel construction also receives applause. With an exciting tension system, which allowed climbers a more technical heel hook, this shoe supports complex maneuvers with finesse.

On the flip side, some users have commented on the Solution Comp's durability. While most agree the shoe offers exceptional performance, it seems to wear quicker than some alternatives in the market. However, users generally agree that the superior performance somewhat offsets this potential downfall.

Another area where users felt the shoe was lacking is in regards to comfort on longer climbs. Though great for bouldering or shorter, more technical climbs, many users have noted that these shoes are a bit too aggressive for longer multi-pitch climbs.

Reasons to Buy

• Exceptionally sensitive
• Perfect for technical climbing
• Durable build
• Incredible precision and performance

Reasons to Avoid

• Not ideal for beginners
• May not be the best option for wider feet
• Not the cheapest choice

The Important Specs

• Closure: Single strap with a velcro finish
• Sole Material: Vibram XS Grip2 rubber
• Upper Material: Micro suede

Review Roundup

Wowza, the Scarpa Drago really turned out to be a rockstar in the climbing community! Here's why folks can't stop raving about it. Its soft, sticky rubber is so far a game changer in the climbing shoe industry. It sticks to virtually everything, making it a breeze to get a good grip while climbing. But take a note, folks, these shoes are designed for precision footwork - they aren't your run-of-the-mill all-rounders.

People are all praise for the Scarpa Drago's ability to smear and articulate into the tiniest of pockets. The shoe feels like a literal second skin and adapts to your foot a lot better than most other shoes out there. It's the sensitivity of the shoe that seems to woo climbers - you can really feel the rock under your feet, which gives a sense of safety and balance.

A few buyers did mention that the Scarpa Drago shoes were a bit more expensive than some other brands on the market. But in the same breath, they confirmed the shoes were really worth the extra bucks for the comfort, the phenomenal grip and the overall quality they offer.

Buyers who've invested in the Drago love the fact that it can be used for both indoor and outdoor climbing. The incredibly adaptable features undoubtedly give this shoe an edge over others.

Uh oh, let's not forget that every rose has its thorn. There is a downside to the Drago's softness. Climbers have mentioned they might not be the best bet for edge and crack climbing. Also, the sizing can be slightly tricky - it's snug, and these puppies don't stretch a whole lot. So, size-selection needs some careful consideration.

To sum it up, online reviewers love the Scarpa Drago for its superior sensitivity, amazing fit and bonkers grip. But a potential buyer needs to be aware of its limitations when it comes to edge and crack climbing, and tricky sizing. All in all, the Scarpa Drago seems like a pretty rad investment for most climbers.

Reasons to Buy

• Comfortable for long periods of wear
• Versatile in climbing styles
• Provides good edging
• Durable construction
• Excellent sensitivity and feel

Reasons to Avoid

• Might be a bit expensive
• Varied sizing feedback
• Some find them stiff initially

The Important Specs

• Sole: Vibram XS Edge
• Closure: Lace
• Material: Leather/Synthetic

Review Roundup

The La Sportiva Katana Lace has gained a well-deserved spot in the big leagues, being recognized by many in the climbing community for its overall performance. The shoe is built with precision and purpose, providing an excellent choice for climbers looking for a versatile and powerful option.

We've noticed that most users rave about its versatility. Whether it's sport climbing, trad climbing or bouldering, these shoes seem to have the ability to perform well across all climbing disciplines. As one satisfied customer put it: 'These are my go-to shoes for nearly all forms of climbing. They're a true all-rounder.'

Another standout feature that real-life buyers continuously praise is the shoe's comfort. Despite the downturned shape and aggressive profile, users highlight that the comfort level of the Katana Lace far exceeds expectations. This is largely due to La Sportiva's meticulous construction, featuring a slight downturn and asymmetric shape to promote comfort without sacrificing performance. One user noted: 'They grip like a high-performance shoe, but they're comfy enough for all-day climbing.'

Although many users praise the Katana Lace's durability, there are a few who observed that the shoes wear out faster than expected, particularly for climbers who often tackle rough terrain. One buyer mentioned: 'I love these shoes, but I had to get them resoled earlier than I thought I would.' Keep in mind that any shoe's lifespan can vary greatly based on the type of climbing and frequency of use.

As with any product, there were a few who found the shoe's sizing challenging. While some found the shoe to be true to size, a number have noted the Katana Lace runs small. It's suggested to try them on in a store or purchase from a retailer with a solid return policy, because finding the right fit might take a couple of tries.

The one feature that almost all climbers can agree on is the Katana Lace's stellar performance on edges. Its ability to bear down on tiny footholds has been lauded by both newbies and veterans in the climbing world. One seasoned climber stated: 'I've never felt more confident on micro edges. These shoes really shine in edging!'.

Reasons to Buy

• Affordable
• High quality materials
• Versatile design suitable for different climbing activities
• Comfortable fit even when worn for extended periods

Reasons to Avoid

• Not recommended for very advanced climbers
• Could be too narrow for select individuals
• Lacks sensitivity for detailed footwork

The Important Specs

• Closure: Lace-up
• Outsole: Vibram XS Edge rubber outsole
• Material: A synthetic suede and leather upper

Review Roundup

The La Sportiva Finale is a real find for climbing rookies or even for regulars looking for an affordable alternative. The Finale is notable for its stiff build which offers extended support for long climbs or extended practice sessions. This feature is a favorite among beginners who are still acquiring foot strength. What's more, these shoes can stand the test of time, and a lot of users have attested to their significant lifespan which makes every penny worth it.

On another note, it's important to consider the Finale's sizing. Many reviews indicate the need to go half to a full size up from your usual as the shoes tend to be a bit on the snug side. On the other hand, these shoes are very comfortable, even when worn for longer periods. Astoundingly, even with its rather tight fit, there have been few complaints about discomfort.

While the Finale proves its value and durability, be aware that its performance slightly lags on more technical or overhanging climbs. Some users found its edging ability slightly lacking, possibly due to its emphasis on comfort. Therefore, those who consistently climb steep terrains might want to check out other options.

Finally, one can't help but appreciate the Finale's eco-friendly approach. According to buyers' reviews, the shoe comes with a biodegradable leather-and-synthetic upper and eco rubber. With the climbing community becoming more conscious of their environmental footprints, this green touch definitely puts the Finale a step ahead.

Reasons to Buy

• Great for beginners
• Comfortable for long hours of wear
• Provides good grip on various surfaces
• Affordable

Reasons to Avoid

• Not suitable for very technical climbs
• Might feel a bit stiff initially
• Some complaints about size inconsistencies

The Important Specs

• Sole: FriXion RS
• Upper: Unlined leather
• Closure: Lace up

Review Roundup

The La Sportiva Tarantulace is an ideal choice for beginners jumping into the climbing sport. Its snug, comfortable fit makes it the perfect companion for those making their debut on the rocks. The shoe gives you a lot joy since it is designed to help you focus on proper footwork and general climbing techniques.

These shoes are built with unlined leather upper that provides a breathable environment and a comfortable feel for climbers. One considerable detail is the quick pull lacing harness that allows for precise regulation of inner volumes, which makes putting them on or taking them off very easy. This is a big plus for people new to climbing.

A vast number of reviews online praised the versatility of the La Sportiva Tarantulace. It's been called a jack-of-all-trades because of its ability to handle a wide range of climbing environments, including the gym, boulders and crack climbs. While it might not be the ultimate specialized shoe for veteran climbers, it’s definitely an all-rounded rock star for beginners.

Quite a number of reviewers lauded the long lifespan of these shoes. They are made to withstand abuse, so you can expect them to serve you well as you learn the ropes. But here's a head's up - they do have a bit of a break in period, so you might want to wear them around the house before your first climb.

In terms of price, customers viewed the La Sportiva Tarantulace as good value for money. They come at a reasonable cost and do not compromise on quality, durability, or performance. Perfect for those who don't want to break the bank before they know if climbing is for them.

Reviewers did, however, mention a few downsides. Some found the shoe to run a bit small and suggested ordering a size up. In addition, although performing well in a variety of climbing scenarios, some experienced climbers felt that the shoes lacked the precision required for more advanced climbs.

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent edging capability
• High performance for bouldering
• Comfortable fit even during long climbs
• Durable and long-lasting

Reasons to Avoid

• May not be ideal for wide feet
• Initial break-in period could be uncomfortable
• On the expensive side

The Important Specs

• Upper: Microsuede
• Closure: Velcro Strap
• Profile: Aggressive downturned
• Material: Vibram XS Edge Rubber

Review Roundup

The Scarpa Instinct VS is one heck of a high-performance shoe that does everything from edging on micro holds to grappling with granite cracks. This model has secured its spot as a fan-favorite with many customers applauding its versatile functionality.

These shoes really do give the feel of an 'instinctive' approach, partly due to its bi-tension randing system that wraps around your foot. Bouldering buffs, in particular, are full of praise for their 'toe down' design allowing maximum power to be driven through your toes. When you're clinging onto the tiniest of holds, that's a set up that means the difference between slipping off or hanging on tight.

The Vibram XS Edge rubber – found in the sole of Scarpa Instinct VS – is another big selling point. Reviewers have praised it for the grip and durability it offers to climbers. While some shoe soles would crumble under the pressure, the Scarpa Instinct VS stands tall, ready to take you to new heights.

But don't think that this super durable rubber comes at the expense of comfort. The snug fit it offers means your feet sit comfortably inside the shoe, although some customers have mentioned the sizing runs slightly small. Time spent breaking in the shoes is a common gripe with rock climbing shoes, but with the Scarpa Instinct VS, users have generally found that they mould to the feet pretty well.

However, it's important to mention that some reviewers have opined that these shoes may not be the optimal match for climbers with wider feet, so that's something to keep in mind. They've also raised flags about the lack of breathability, which could be a turn-off for climbers who sweat a lot or for longer climbing sessions.

The price point sits higher than some other climbing shoes on the market, but many customers believe that the Scarpa Instinct VS's performance extras make up for the additional investment due to their high-performance, adaptable nature and durability.

Reasons to Buy

• Great edging
• Ideal for trad climbing
• Superb durability
• Good value for money
• Fit is true to size

Reasons to Avoid

• Not sensitive enough for some climbers
• May not be ideal for wider feet
• Takes time to break in

The Important Specs

• Sole: Vibram XS Edge
• Closure: Lace-up
• Material: Leather with Vibram rubber rand and soles

Review Roundup

The La Sportiva TC Pro is a stellar performer when it comes to trad and crack climbing shoes. Designed with professional climber Tommy Caldwell, these shoes are meticulously tweaked to offer superior functionality and comfort. They've been hailed by industry professionals as one of the most capable climbing shoes you can get your hands on.

Climbers love the La Sportiva TC Pro for its ability to protect their feet during extended climbing sessions, thanks to its thick, yet sensitive soles. These shoes are designed to fit like a glove, providing a snug, yet comfortable fit so you can focus more on your climbing than the discomfort in your feet.

The upper part of the shoe made from durable leather combined with Vibram rubber soles adds up to a sturdy, long-lasting shoe that doesn’t give up on you mid-climb. Because of the flat profile, users have mentioned that they can stand on tiny edges and jam into cracks without the undue strain on their feet. The padded tongue is also seen as a win-win, effectively shielding your feet from sharp and painful jamming experiences.

Another noteworthy feature, according to our readers, is the high ankle coverage. It gracefully defends against painful abrasions while shimmying up rough cracks, making your climbing experiences less about battling shoe-bites, and more about the triumphs of successful ascents.

With that said, a couple of users have pointed out minor drawbacks. Firstly, the TC Pro is a bit on the pricier side. For budget climbers who are just starting off, this could be somewhat of a deterrent. Additionally, some find the breaking in period of the shoes a bit longer than they would prefer. However, once broken in, the pair fits like second skin, as per numerous reviews from satisfied users.

While most agree that it excels in long multi-pitches and crack climbing, there is a slight division of opinion on its performance in situations like steep sport routes or overhanging terrains where more aggressive shoes might have an upper hand.

All in all, users of the La Sportiva TC Pro commend it for being a well-rounded climbing shoe with outstanding comfort, protective capabilities, and precision in crack climbing and pitches. Despite its few shortcomings, it remains a popular choice for its versatility and robust construction among seasoned climbers.

Reasons to Buy

• Impressive edging abilities
• Good for steep routes
• Excellent fit
• Remarkable sensitivity

Reasons to Avoid

• Carbon lining may be too stiff for some users
• Not the best choice for crack climbing
• Durability could be better

The Important Specs

• Sole: Vibram XS Grip 3.5mm
• Closure: Patented figure 8 pull system
• Materials: Microfibre upper and cotton lining with TXT treatment
• Last Shape: Asymmetric

Review Roundup

The Tenaya Tarifa climbing shoe is not just another climbing shoe. It emerges as a unique blend offering both comfort and performance – a trait that has won it countless fans among climbing enthusiasts.

After having searched through numerous online purchases and reviews of this product, one thing stands out: users are pretty fond of the Tenaya Tarifa. This is primarily due to the shoe's super snug fit, as numerous climbers have described it as a 'second skin'. The shoe adapts to the shape of the foot, thereby providing unparalleled comfort, even when clinging to edges and balancing on tiny footholds.

What makes the Tenaya Tarifa worth its price, is the shoe's great versatility. It transitions smoothly from indoor bouldering events to outdoor sport climbing scenes, almost effortlessly. Customers appreciate this flexibility and see it as great value for money.

Even though it excels in many departments, the Tenaya Tarifa is not without its drawbacks. Some users have mentioned that the shoe's edging capabilities could be better. Additionally, a few users also express concerns about the durability of the shoe's toe rubber, especially under extensive use.

Many climbers are appreciating the shoe's moderate downturn and relatively flat profile, allowing for enhanced comfort on long climbs. Users also note that the shoe is not as aggressive as some counterparts, yet manages to maintain a high performance level.

Several users have talked about its rapid break-in period, which is a major advantage. Nonetheless, some users have also mentioned that the shoe may tend to stretch after a while, necessitating a size down.

Overall, the Tenaya Tarifa has garnered applause for its comfort and versatility across various climbing terrains. Some minor issues regarding edging and durability have been spotted in online reviews, but they seem to be far outweighed by the positive responses this climbing shoe has received.

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent for indoor climbing
• Comfortable for long periods
• Great edging and crack climbing performance
• Offers good sensitivity and feel
• Affordable

Reasons to Avoid

• May not be as durable as other brands
• Not ideal for outdoor climbing
• Sizes run small

The Important Specs

• Sole: Vibram XS Edge
• Lining: Unlined
• Closure: Velcro
• Material: Synthetic

Review Roundup

The Scarpa Veloce is a darling in the realm of indoor climbing shoes, earning itself a solid reputation amongst experienced climbers and beginners alike. Billed as an all-around climbing shoe for premium indoor performance, it does live up to its promises on a multitude of fronts.

Kicking off with comfort - one of the most crucial characteristics in climbing shoes - several user reviews praised the gear for its exceptional level of comfort. Even those new to the sport found the Veloces soft and cushy without sacrificing sensitivity. The cushioned heel, in particular, won big points from climbers who had issues with other brands causing discomfort.

In terms of flexibility, a lot of customers reported the Scarpa Veloce provides unlikely amounts of scope to flex and bend. They also gave the shoes a thumbs up for the quality material, which doesn't stretch out too much over time - a common worry among the climbing camp.

Speaking of the actual climbing experience, users found the Veloce grip very effective on a range of surfaces. The Vibram XS Edge rubber outsole was highly praised for offering a perfect blend of stickiness and durability. A few reviews, however, felt that the shoe's performance on tiny holds and overhanging climbs was not as outstanding as on other surfaces.

A significant number of reports confirmed that the Scarpa Veloce offers good breathability. Thanks to the uppers made of synthetic microsuede, climbers haven't found their feet heating up or sweating excessively - an often overlooked but crucial detail, especially for lengthy climbing sessions.

However, like most climbing gears, the Scarpa Veloce is not without its fair share of negatives. A number of users cited that the shoe runs small, suggesting that you might want to consider sizing up. Also, some climbers felt the need of a more aggressive downturn for steeper climbs - although this might be more of a personal preference than a universal drawback.