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Rock Climbing Shoes

10 Best Rock Climbing Shoes 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

SCARPA Drago LV Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Low-Volume Fit and Specialized Performance for Sensitivity - White - 7-7.5

SCARPA Drago LV Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Low-Volume Fit and Specialized Performance for Sensitivity - White - 7-7.5

SCARPA

10.0 score

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The SCARPA Drago LV Rock Climbing Shoes are designed for climbers with narrow, flat feet and offer a low-volume fit. These shoes excel in sport climbing and bouldering due to their sensitivity and aggressive downturn, making them suitable for steep and technical climbs. The thin midsole enhances sensitivity, while the Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber provides excellent grip and stiffness for various rock types and styles.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,117
Fit
Type of Climbing

Most important from
18 reviews

Fit
These shoes are a dream come true for climbers with extremely narrow feet, providing a secure fit without needing to downsize.
Type of Climbing
Ideal for technical climbs, the SCARPA Drago LV offers excellent sensitivity and grip.
#2
8.2 score

SCARPA Men's Veloce Rock Climbing Shoes for Gym Climbing - Black/Yellow - 9.5-10

SCARPA Men's Veloce Rock Climbing Shoes for Gym Climbing - Black/Yellow - 9.5-10

SCARPA

8.2 score

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The SCARPA Men's Veloce Rock Climbing Shoes are particularly well-suited for gym climbing, making them a great choice for beginner to intermediate climbers. The design emphasizes comfort while still retaining technical aspects. The wide toe-box and relaxed fit offer comfort for longer gym sessions, which can help reduce foot fatigue. This is beneficial for climbers who are still getting used to maintaining their feet in climbing shoes for extended periods.

Rating
8.2
Fit
Type of Climbing
Closure System

Most important from
47 reviews

Fit
Finding climbing shoes that fit well and don't make toes hurt is a challenge, but these have been great after a short break-in period.
Type of Climbing
These shoes are an excellent choice for intermediate climbers, offering progression over time and comfort for longer gym sessions.
Closure System
The velcro system is preferred over the standard bulky two flaps, and the fit is so well that tightening the strap is barely needed.
#3
8.2 score

La Sportiva Men's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive/Tiger, 10

La Sportiva Men's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive/Tiger, 10

La Sportiva

8.2 score

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The La Sportiva Men's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes are designed to offer a snug and precise fit, thanks to their quick pull lacing harness. This lace-up system is easy to adjust and provides a secure fit, which is important for climbing performance. The shoes are made from durable leather and equipped with a FriXion RS rubber compound sole that delivers excellent grip and durability, making them suitable for various types of climbing, including gym climbing and outdoor rock climbing.

Rating
8.2
Fit

Most important from
493 reviews

Fit
Perfect for beginners, offering good toe support and accommodating wide feet comfortably.

Top 10 Best Rock Climbing Shoes 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score
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SCARPA

SCARPA Drago LV Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering - Low-Volume Fit and Specialized Performance for Sensitivity - White - 7-7.5

Fit: low-volume
Type of Climbing: sport climbing, bouldering
Closure System: Hook & Loop
Material: synthetic
Sole Stiffness: stiff
Downturn: aggressive

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Chosen by 1117 this week

#2
8.2  score
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SCARPA

SCARPA Men's Veloce Rock Climbing Shoes for Gym Climbing - Black/Yellow - 9.5-10

Fit: relaxed
Type of Climbing: gym
Closure System: Lace-Up
Material: Synthetic Rubber
Sole Stiffness: soft
Downturn: downturned

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#3
8.2  score
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La Sportiva

La Sportiva Men's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive/Tiger, 10

Fit: snug, precise
Type of Climbing: gym, outdoor rock climbing
Closure System: Lace-Up
Material: Leather
Sole Stiffness: maximum rigidity
Downturn: moderate

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#4
7.9  score
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Tenaya

Tenaya Mundaka Cat Feet Climbing Shoes, Unisex_Adult, 41009-095, Verde, 8,5 UK

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#5
7.9  score
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La Sportiva

La Sportiva Men's Finale Rock Climbing Shoes, Aloe/Moss, 10.5

Fit: snugly
Type of Climbing: moderate climbing
Closure System: lace-up
Material: soft unlined eco leather
Sole Stiffness: softer, more flexible
Downturn: neutral to slightly downturned

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#6
7.9  score
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SCARPA

SCARPA Men's Origin VS Rock Climbing Shoes for Gym Bouldering & Sport Climbing - Petrol/Lime - 10.5-11 Women/9.5-10 Men

Fit: flat profile, low asymmetry
Type of Climbing: gym bouldering, sport climbing
Closure System: oversized strap
Material: microfiber
Downturn: minimal downturn

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#7
7.6  score
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BLACK DIAMOND

BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes | Engineered Knit Technology | 4.3mm Rubber Outsole | White/Black | Size 12

Fit: good fit molds to foot over time
Type of Climbing: Gym, Rock
Closure System: simple closure, likely Velcro
Material: Nylon
Sole Stiffness: moderate
Downturn: flat profile, no downward curve

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#8
7.6  score
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EVOLV

EVOLV Phantom Rock Climbing Shoe for Bouldering & Sport Climbing - Black/White - 10.5

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#9
7.0  score
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SCARPA

SCARPA Drago XT Rock Climbing & Bouldering Shoes - Specialized Performance for Sensitivity - Black/Iron - 9 Men/10 Women

Fit: firmly right from the start
Type of Climbing: sport climbing and bouldering
Closure System: buckle
Material: synthetic microsuede and rubber
Sole Stiffness: moderate
Downturn: highly downturned and asymmetric

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#10
7.0  score
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La Sportiva

La Sportiva Women's Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Topaz/Red Plum, 9 US, 40.5 EU

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Buying Guide for the Best Rock Climbing Shoes

Choosing the right rock climbing shoes is crucial for both comfort and performance. The right pair can make a significant difference in your climbing experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber. When selecting climbing shoes, consider the type of climbing you'll be doing, your foot shape, and the fit of the shoe. It's important to try on several pairs and walk around in them to ensure they feel right. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing rock climbing shoes.
FitFit is the most important aspect of climbing shoes. A well-fitted shoe should be snug but not painfully tight. Climbing shoes are designed to fit more tightly than regular shoes to provide better control and sensitivity on the rock. For beginners, a comfortable fit with a little bit of room is ideal, while advanced climbers might prefer a tighter fit for more precision. Always try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to get the most accurate fit.
Type of ClimbingThe type of climbing you plan to do will influence the type of shoe you need. For bouldering and sport climbing, shoes with a downturned shape (aggressive) are preferred for their precision and power. For trad climbing and multi-pitch routes, a flatter shoe (neutral) is more comfortable for extended wear. If you're into crack climbing, look for shoes with a low profile and a stiff sole to protect your feet.
Closure SystemClimbing shoes come with different closure systems: lace-up, Velcro, and slip-on. Lace-up shoes offer the most adjustable fit, making them versatile for various types of climbing. Velcro shoes are convenient for quick on and off, ideal for bouldering and gym climbing. Slip-on shoes, also known as slippers, provide a snug fit and are great for training and crack climbing. Choose a closure system based on your climbing style and preference for convenience versus adjustability.
MaterialClimbing shoes are made from either leather or synthetic materials. Leather shoes tend to stretch and mold to your feet over time, providing a custom fit. Synthetic shoes offer less stretch and maintain their shape better, which can be beneficial for consistent performance. Consider how much stretch you want in your shoes and whether you prefer a more breathable material (leather) or a more durable one (synthetic).
Sole StiffnessThe stiffness of the sole affects the shoe's performance and comfort. Stiffer soles provide more support and are better for edging on small footholds, making them suitable for beginners and trad climbers. Softer soles offer more sensitivity and are preferred by advanced climbers for overhanging routes and smearing. Think about the type of climbing you do most often and choose a sole stiffness that matches your needs.
DownturnThe downturn of a climbing shoe refers to the curve of the shoe from heel to toe. Aggressively downturned shoes are designed for steep, overhanging routes and provide more power and precision. Moderately downturned shoes offer a balance between comfort and performance, suitable for a variety of climbing styles. Neutral shoes are flat and comfortable, ideal for beginners and long climbs. Your choice should depend on your climbing style and the type of routes you typically climb.

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