Choosing climbing shoes: ALPINSTORE expert guide to find the ideal pair

Choosing climbing shoes: why it's so important

Choosing climbing shoes is not just a matter of looks or size. It's the art of finding the connection between your foot and the rock, the bouldering session, and the long routes. At ALPINSTORE, we are a team of seasoned experts: we test, wear out, repair, and advise. Here, no beating around the bush. Do you want precision, comfort, or performance? We'll explain how to decide.

Foot shape: the basic info

First of all, look at your feet. There are three main families: Egyptian, Roman, Greek. Each will push you towards a different shoe shape. An Egyptian foot often prefers an asymmetric shoe, while a Greek foot may sometimes prefer a straighter fit. Being aware of your morphology can save you hours of frustration in the store.

The shape of the shoe and the arch

Two main families: symmetrical (straight) and asymmetrical (pointed). The former favor comfort and endurance, while the latter prioritize precision and placement on small footholds. The arch enhances technicality: the more pronounced it is, the more the shoe is performance-oriented. To start, aim for a compromise.

Size: the golden rule

Measure your foot from heel to the longest toe. Then: choose the smallest size possible before it becomes too painful. A beginner will keep their size or not more than one size up; an experienced climber can go down one to four sizes depending on tolerance and discipline. The important thing: no painful pressure points and a filled heel to avoid slipping off.

The heel, toes, and fit

The heel of the shoe should be well-padded and without space. Toes slightly curled give more power, but be careful not to overdo it. Finally, the type of fit changes the entire adjustment: laces, Velcro, elastics. If you want a pair easy to put on during a short session, prioritize Velcro; if you're looking for the ultimate fit for the cliff, lacing is often superior.

For those who prefer lacing, check out our selection of lace-up climbing shoes aimed at those with narrow feet or who like to fine-tune each pressure point.

Bouldering, cliffs, long routes: a pair for every need

Each practice imposes its expectations: in bouldering, you want a precise shoe, easy to take off and put on; thus, Velcro climbing shoes are often the right choice. On cliffs, define the type of route: vertical, overhang, slab: and adjust the stiffness and fit. On long routes, prioritize comfort to last for hours. Versatile climbers own several pairs, and they are right to do so.

Materials, sole, and repair

Look at the rubber, thickness, and material of the upper: a soft sole grips better but wears out faster; a stiff sole offers support on cracks and edges. The possibility of resoling extends the life of your investment. Finally, for aging shoes, keep a few models in backup: one pair for performance, another for durability.

Quick checklist before buying

• Measure your foot and try several sizes.
• Test the fit of heel + toes: zero space, no sharp pain.
• Choose the fit according to your practice: laces for precision, Velcro for responsiveness.
• Check the possibility of resoling and the quality of the rubber.

Buy with confidence

Do you want to buy climbing equipment but hesitate? Start by prioritizing shoes and protection. In the same spirit, also think about helmets: we must not forget that safety comes first, so climbing helmets from the best brands should be on your checklist before any committed outing.

Other useful purchases

Beyond the shoes, there is a whole ecosystem: chalk bag, brush, spare sole. If you want to complete your gear, take the opportunity to buy targeted climbing accessories suited to your discipline. For those looking for a versatile pair, we also offer options for the mountains: you can even buy shoes for climbing and après-ski when the design allows it.

Why choose ALPINSTORE

ALPINSTORE is a young, fast, and committed team. Our testers are athletes in the field. Here you will find climbing equipment selected by our experts: we offer honest advice, without empty promises. If you want to explore our favorite models, discover our selection of climbing shoes sorted by practice and morphology.

Fitting tips in-store

Always try at the end of the day: feet swell. Wear thin socks if you plan to wear them, but generally, we try barefoot. Walk, heel strike, lightly bump the heel to feel if the volume is right. Once on a climbing hold, assess the precision and comfort, then repeat the test with another size.

Final tip

Want to buy online? Read the size guides and check customer returns. If you hesitate between two sizes, take the smaller one if you want performance, the larger one for endurance. And if you want to improve longevity, invest in resoling and clean regularly. To complete your baskets, think about buying shoes for climbing and après-ski only if the model allows it, and don't forget that experience is key: adapt, test, readjust.

Need personalized help?

Still feeling lost? Contact our team, describe your practice, your morphology, and your experience. We advise you like friends in the climbing party: direct, sincere, and effective. And if you want to explore specific models, note that we also distribute and test LA SPORTIVA, MILLET, SALTIC, and SCARPA: references you already know.