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So, you’ve decided to take on gravity and scale some walls—awesome! Whether you’re bouldering indoors or trad climbing outdoors, your first pair of climbing shoes is crucial. They should be comfortable, supportive, and budget-friendly. Lucky for you, we’ve rounded up the top-rated beginner climbing shoes of 2025, based on expert reviews and climber feedback. If you can, try to find a shop where you can try them to get the feeling! Check your local gym what they sell!
I have personally not been able to try these shoes which are ranked here, these ratings are solely based on the reviews extracted from web. I personally use Tenaya’s shoes because they fit my feet the best! My strong favorite for slightly advanced shoes is Tenaya Mundaka for its unbelievable comfort and a precision which took me up for a few grades! I climbed with those for almost 3-4 years. Now, as I have worn those shoes to their end, I made a decision to switch to Tenaya Indalo. They are more aggressive but still remain amazingly comfortable! Note: Indalos aren’t beginner shoes, but for example, the Tenaya Mundaka—slightly aggressive yet surprisingly comfortable—can be a viable option for your first pair if you’re willing to make the investment.
đź‘ź Top Picks for Beginner Climbing Shoes
1. La Sportiva Tarantulace Men & Women
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Type: Neutral, lace-up
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Best for: All-around comfort and durability
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Why it stands out: Renowned for its craftsmanship and affordability, the Tarantulace offers a comfortable fit with a leather upper that molds to your foot over time.
- PICTURES COMING SOON!
2. Evolv Defy
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Type: Neutral, Velcro
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Best for: Indoor climbing and bouldering
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Why it stands out: The Defy is noted for its comfort and excellent traction, making it a favorite among beginners.
- PICTURES COMING SOON!
3. Scarpa Force V
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Type: Slightly asymmetrical, Velcro
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Best for: Versatile outdoor and indoor use
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Why it stands out: The Force V offers a comfortable, slightly asymmetrical fit with a Vibram XS Edge rubber sole for protection and sensitivity on moderate routes.
- PICTURES COMING SOON!
4. La Sportiva Finale Men & Women
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Type: Neutral, lace-up
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Best for: All-day comfort on trad climbs
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Why it stands out: The Finale features a stiff 5mm sole and a foot-conforming leather upper, offering durability and comfort for beginners.
- PICTURES COMING SOON!
5. Scarpa Origin Men & Women
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Type: Neutral, Velcro
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Best for: Comfort with a Velcro closure
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Why it stands out: Designed for comfort with a Velcro closure, the Origin is a great choice for beginners.
- PICTURES COMING SOON!
🧠Tips for Choosing Your First Pair
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Fit is key: Climbing shoes should feel snug but not painful. Try out multiple shoes to get the idea which fits best!
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Material matters: Leather stretches over time, while synthetic materials maintain their shape.
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Closure style: Velcro is convenient for quick on/off, while laces offer a customizable fit.
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Terrain type: Consider where you’ll be climbing most often—indoor gyms, outdoor boulders, or trad routes.