Outdoor activities like climbing, hiking, etc. can be a lot of fun if one is properly equipped and dressed. Wearing uncomfortable gear can be a major drawback and can have severe repercussions. This applies to one and all, be it the beginners or the experts. Hence, the very first thing to take into consideration when preparing for your first climb is, owning a good pair of shoes. There is a plethora of options when it comes to buying climbing shoes. However, the whole process of thinking what is your style and what you should buy is the tricky part. Below are a few points that can help you reach a conclusion on what shoe of type can be your best resort when it comes to engaging in activities like climbing.

  • For Beginners: Beginners lack technique and hence they should opt for shoes that are designed specifically to avoid any danger caused by slipping and scrunched toes. It is important you know the pros and cons of shoes available and look out for the ones that best suit your needs. For example, a person with a normal foot can try Velcro over slip-on. Figuring out whether you are comfortable in them, especially when you are moving around is solely up to you. If you think you are having a hard time balancing, then drop the idea of buying that particular shoe as it can lead to more friction while climbing.
  • For Intermediate Level Climbers: You need to ask yourself whether it is the performance that you are looking for or a pair of shoes that not just performs well but also save you from any physical torcher like cramped toes, blisters etc.

Let us see the variety of shoes available for the climbers with different construction and purpose.

Moderate: Shoes for Intermediates

Somebody who has experienced the foot blisters and scrunches would know what I mean when I refer to the term “camber”. The gap between the heel and the toes is the reason for your bad performance. Most of the moderate shoes have a moderate amount of camber. These are suitable for climbers who are into technical climbs and are looking for shoes to be worn on shorter gym routes. However, hard overhanging problem or continuous sections of overhung rock are climbed better with aggressive shoes on. Let us now have a look at this category of aggressive shoes.

Aggressive: Shoes for Professionals

Mentioning about an aggressive shoe category for climbers gives me the utmost pleasure. This though may be best suited for intermediate to professional climbers, is incredibly powerful. These shoes usually feature a Velcro opening. These shoes have a specific shape that provides extra propulsion in every step you take. These shoes are ideal for overhung routes and help in the movement of the toes. However, these shoes should be avoided for long routes.

Neutral: Shoes for Beginners

Beginners should always opt for shoes with a flat sole and wider toe. These are comfortable and are suitable for long multi-pitch routes. Give your feet the freedom and comfort they deserve even during those tough climbing days. Bid adieu to warts, blisters, and toe scrunch by getting hold of the appropriate shoes that fit you well.

Beginner and intermediates should make up their mind on what option to go for. Renting shoes should be avoided in any case as you don’t want your feet to smell and come out every second due to an improper fit.