Entry-level climbing shoes meet very specific characteristics, whose main objective is not to "traumatize" beginner climbers during their first experiences because of a painful sensation. To avoid this problem, we should choose basic models, maybe the ones that are also recommended for multi-pitch routes, with a comfortable fit and a natural shape. To these characteristics, we can then add more subjective variables such as the type of closure and the main use they are meant for. Let’s see together the main features to take into account.
La Sportiva Kubo
Size
Each model of climbing shoes has a reference grid where the usual city shoe size is associated with the corresponding number of climbing shoes. A beginner may also not strictly follow these tips and try to take a half-size or an extra size, especially if they use them with socks.
Sole
In this case, you should undoubtedly consider climbing shoes with a whole sole, which evenly supports the sole without tiring it too much. It is easy to find a complete sole on most models with a stiffer structure and a symmetrical shape, the perfect combination for climbing shoes for beginners. The thickness of the sole is usually around 5mm to ensure exceptional durability.
Aggressivity
Undoubtedly, if you start, you will choose a comfortable shoe, with a flat and neutral shape, and as we said, with a symmetrical sole if possible. A climber who learns this sport has not yet developed the muscles necessary to master a very flexible and curved shoe, with which he would only feel pain and would find himself regularly with cramps.
SCARPA Drago Kid
Stiffness
In general, intermediate or more rigid climbing shoes are used to reduce calf fatigue and to better support the arch of the foot. These shoes are also recommended for climbing on slab walls, a very likely situation during the early stages of the climbing approach. They allow precisely to gradually develop the necessary musculature to then use more flexible and sensitive climbing shoes.
Beyond all these features, we can also add these more subjective variables:
Use
You will prefer a washable and breathable model for indoor climbing, or a more precise model for the outdoors, where you won't need to often readjust the closure and the internal volumes. For bouldering - both indoor and outdoor - you could take into consideration a climbing shoe with velcro that you could quickly put on and off and, maybe, a slightly softer model, as you won't have to do long sessions which can fatigue your feet.
Closure
The choice of closure is very closely related to that of use. In general, a lace-up closure is recommended for the crag, while velcro or slippers are more suitable for bouldering or indoor climbing. As a general rule, climbing shoes for beginners often have laces, to allow optimal regulation of internal volumes, as well as to enter into the perspective of the correct feeling of "tight but not too much" that they must provide. Many models are however available in both versions, laces and velcro, to give you the opportunity to choose your favorite type of closure without compromise!
Materials
Leather or synthetic: the choice is very subjective even if, as a rule, a leather upper or a leather mixture with microfiber inserts, is always softer and more comfortable.
Wild Climb Panthera
Four models of climbing shoes for beginners
Among the countless models adapted to those who are new to this sport, we have chosen four that represent the "classics" of entry-level climbing shoes.
Wild Climb Sky climbing shoes are available in laces and velcro versions to offer the possibility to choose the closure you prefer, on a model with a natural shape and a solid resistance over time. Timeless and reliable, they are also widely used for long routes.
Evolv Defy are comfortable shoes built with a full sole; they also are stiff and with a flat shape. They are designed to give you maximum support: the sole is 4.2mm Trax rubber, which guarantees exceptional grip combined with excellent durability!
Tarantula climbing shoes from La Sportiva are available in the classic version with laces or velcro and in men’s or women’s models with several color options. It is a great classic of comfortable climbing slippers that can be worn for hours. They are so perfect for beginners or the room that there is now a TaRENTula version, specially designed for rental by sports groups or halls. The visible number on the back of the shoe makes stock management much easier.
On the other hand, SCARPA Origin represent a classic model universally appreciated in its unisex version with a double cross velcro closure for an optimal foot wrap. Made of ultra-soft leather, they are comfortable and characterized by a neutral shape and a rounded tip.
Cover image: Schriber Poetter
