Indoor vs outdoor climbing shoes soft forefoot or downturned vs. But most modern shoes (remember solutions are +10 years old) just use the shoe structure to perform the midsole function of old. Indoor climbing shoes are designed for climbing on plastic holds. Check out this guide for more information. I use it 95% of the time for indoor and outdoor bouldering and sport. Outdoor shoes, on the other hand, are typically designed for activities like hiking and biking. George and Hurricane, Utah, this spring to test an assortment of climbing shoes and they’re back with a full r Apr 26, 2025 · Outdoor climbing communities are often smaller and tighter-knit. However, relegating this model to the ranks of newbies sells its capabilities short as a low-cost all-around climbing shoe. 5. Outdoor Climbing – Some Differences: One of the differences between indoor and outdoor bouldering lies in the grading systems. Gym climbing mainly involves sport climbing, top-roping, and bouldering on near-vertical to wildly overhanging walls. Moreover, in the past 15 years, indoor bouldering has exploded in popularity. The BD Shadow is its top-tier performance climbing shoe, and an impressive one for a relative newcomer. Women’s Climbing Shoe Designs. Black Diamond has been a staple in the climbing industry for decades but only started making climbing shoes more recently. Outdoor Climbing Shoes All of the shoes on this list can be worn for both gym and outdoor climbing, although many trend toward one discipline or the other. the rubber has good friction and the toe profile should shut a wide variety of foot shapes whilst offering reasonable precision for intricate footwear. Jun 23, 2024 · One of the main differences in gear between indoor and outdoor climbing is the type of shoes and harnesses used. Apr 24, 2025 · We’ve also updated pricing as well as shoe specs and info throughout. Top picks for beginners, intermediate, bouldering and under $100 plus COMPLETE buyer's guide! Climbing Shoes: Just like indoor climbing, having the right shoes is crucial. Jul 30, 2015 · I am looking at getting some shoes to start rock climbing, and I had a few questions about the shoes. I’m guessing solutions probably do (hence the stiffness) whereas the comps don’t. These shoes don Nov 16, 2023 · This is the preferred style for indoor shoes because gym climbing is significantly more dynamic and three-dimensional than traditional outdoor rock climbing. Over the years I've got probably a half dozen or so pairs of shoes and I find I care more about their type in regard to what terrain they are best on rather than if they are better indoor vs outdoor. Climbing on artificial walls can feel very different from climbing on real rocks, which may not provide the same experience or challenges. Make sure to clean and lubricate your climbing shoes every time you use them to keep them in good condition. Sep 30, 2024 · Looking for your first pair of rock climbing shoes? We tested 30 top-rated climbing shoes in the gym, crag, and bouldering to find the best rock climbing shoes for beginners and mid-level climbers, with winners from La Sportiva, Five Ten, Black Diamond and Evolv Nov 11, 2023 · The Best Intermediate Climbing Shoes. , UK, and Europe. Indoor Climbing vs. Think of grading in different environments (outdoors vs indoors, one area vs another area, different grading systems or disciplines, etc) as an inside comparison. The Vapor V is awesome on both rock and plastic The Vapor V smears and edges very well, which is a difficult balance to get right. Jul 29, 2022 · For these reasons, a beginner climbing shoe is generally designed with thicker rubber on the sole. Indoor climbing shoes, on the other hand, have a softer soles to provide greater comfort over time. Either way, I agree. Indoor climbing routes are generally graded on the V-scale, as we use at Flashpoint, which ranges from V0/VB (easiest) to V17 (most difficult – we have a V17 at Flashpoint Cardiff , its a replica of the Oct 20, 2021 · A buying guide to indoor climbing shoes - we walk you through the differences between outdoor and indoor shoes, why you would want a pair of indoor shoes and which indoor shoes would be most suitable for your level of climbing. The ideal pair will offer the fit and performance that match your climbing style so you can tackle the wall more confidently. Nov 13, 2023 · The stiffness of the sole is another distinction between the two types of shoes. Indoor rock climbing is awesome! It's accessible, builds community, and hosts many programs for kids and adults. While gym climbing takes place in a nice climate-controlled cushioned playground, outdoor climbing is full of adventure and risks. Although indoor gym climbing and outdoor rock climbing do have some pretty significant differences, shoe design isn’t one of them! The same shoes you use in the gym will hold just as well on the outdoor boulders and holds. They often have a tighter fit and a more tensioned heel to provide better power transfer from the foot to the rock. Indoor climbing is great training for outdoor climbing, and is great because it’s more accessible and can be done year round. The shoe’s fit is also an important consideration. A lot of climbing shoes are unisex. Nov 6, 2023 · It’s a shoe built with all-around climbing in mind, so feels, and performs, like a performance model rather than a beginner climbing shoe. There are some obvious differences such as being indoors vs being outdoors but there are a lot more differences such as different gear, different environment, routes, safety and difficulty. Should You Wear Different Shoes Indoor Vs Outdoor Climbing? Climbing shoes are built to be used indoors and outdoors so you don’t usually need different shoes for each type of climbing. 1. Your choice of shoe will depend first and foremost on your climbing style. Most modern climbing shoes don’t have a midsole at all. It is a high performing shoe, the toe, which is pointy, allows full precision on small edges. Climbing shoes from tried and trusted brands such as Scarpa, La Sportiva, Boreal and more available online and in-store at GO Outdoors. For example, a La Sportiva Solution is great for outdoor bouldering but much too stiff to perform well on modern boulder problems in the gym. Feb 22, 2020 · Main features of a modern climbing shoe. Over the past decade, our team has tested over 45 of the best climbing shoes for women. Discover over 70+ models of climbing shoes from beginner to advanced across brands including So iLL, Butora, Scarpa, Tenaya, Evolv, Mad Rock, Black Diamond & more. In the UK, we’re spoiled for choice with world-class outdoor climbing spots like the Peak District, Lake District, and Scotland’s Highlands. This research enables SCARPA to continue making pairs suitable for all kinds of climbing, including indoor climbing, cliff climbing, bouldering and multi-pitch climbing. S. Also below, find 11 tips for better understanding how indoor vs. Gyms provide a safe environment for beginners and often offer rental gear, making it easy to start without significant investment. Indoor bouldering gyms can also get crowded during peak hours, which can lead to long wait times for popular routes. With a single velcro strap and slipper-like comfort, it’s incredibly sensitive but offers surprising edging ability thanks to La Sportiva’s P3 tensioned rand system and No-Edge sole technology. Best Climbing Shoes at a Glance. Mar 10, 2025 · The La Sportiva Tarantulace ($89) has been one of the top-selling climbing shoes on the market for decades. See full list on gripped. outdoor bouldering grades stack up, and for planning your first outdoor bouldering excursion. Corey Buhay Climbing Style. flat toes drastically change how climbing shoes perform. For example my 2 go-to pairs are La Sportiva Solutions and Miura VS. Outdoor climbing shoes typically have a stiffer sole to provide additional support and stability on rough terrain. How to Find the Perfect Climbing Shoes As a Beginner? Sep 16, 2024 · Soft shoes, meanwhile, can also be either flat like the Five Ten Moccasym or downturned like Scarpa’s Veloce L. Nowadays, gym culture has taken over and some people seem to have narrowed it down to different types of gym climbing, or indoor/outdoor sport climbing and bouldering. Softer shoes will conform to those big plastic holds and smear on the sandpaper-textured wall with ease. 10 is easier than 5. Sharing a day on the rock can create deep bonds. 11 in your local sport climbing area. Step up your climbing game with the right climbing shoes. The outsole thickness of high-end rock climbing shoes ranges from about 3 – 4 mm, while shoes made for the entry-level market run from 4 – 5 mm. The shoes adapt to different shapes of feet, for a light, flexible and perfect-fitting solution that ensures maximum sensitivity and outstanding grip. This relatively flat, lace-up climbing shoe may never climb 5. Jul 25, 2024 · Gym vs. Last Shapes. Outdoor Climbing: Outdoor climbing demands a more comprehensive gear list for safety and Nov 11, 2023 · Indoor Vs Outdoor Climbing Shoes One of the key differences between indoor and outdoor climbing is that the holds are typically a lot larger, and more rounded in the gym. FREE Delivery on orders over £80. This shoe is designed for the climber who has a higher volume (wide) foot with a center-shaped shoe toe. However, outdoor climbing shoes may need to be more robust to handle rugged terrains. The last is actually a plastic mould used by the manufacturer to create the overall shape. In general, it doesn’t matter which brand of shoe you get, regardless of gender. With Free Delivery for Orders Over $79 & a Free Shoe Return to help you find the shoe that suits your climbing style, fit Dec 29, 2020 · Climbing shoes are rather versatile and gym climbing is not all that different from outdoor climbing once you go above the grades of VO and 5. There’s a strong culture of respect for nature, safety, and the history of the routes you’re climbing. Because of this, indoor climbing shoes typically are softer and more sensitive. 6 (routes easy enough to climb in tennis shoes). Gym to Outdoor Bouldering Grade Conversion Chart Illustation: Claire Eckstrom Low-end Bouldering Grades V0 Dec 17, 2024 · It established itself as a versatile choice for sport climbing and bouldering, but it’s also a common pick for indoor and competition climbing (most notably, 11-time American Bouldering Series champion Alex Puccio cites the Instinct VS as her favorite shoe). The only thing that matters is that it is comfortable on your feet and enhances your climbing performance. Table of Gear Differences: Sep 11, 2022 · Indoor shoes are designed to be worn in a controlled environment, such as an office or home. 13 or V7 gracefully. Climbing shoes can cause injury if not properly cared for, so it’s important to take care of them. For these reasons, there aren’t climbing shoes that are particularly better for indoor or outdoor climbing. Top quality, great selection and expert advice you can trust. May 3, 2024 · The short answer is yes, you can use the same pair of shoes for indoor vs outdoor climbing. Rope Type: Outdoor ropes need to be more robust for rougher surfaces, while indoor climbing ropes can be thinner and more supple. I currently rent shoes, and use an indoor climbing wall, but I have a lot of friends that like to climb outdoors. Is there a difference in indoor vs outdoor climbing shoes, are there known hybrids if there are considerable differences? A common question for beginner climbers and sometimes more experienced climbers is about the differences between indoor and outdoor climbing. Indoor vs. The five shoes I will share with you on this page are some of the best climbing shoes for intermediate climbers available in 2023, all of which are It is important to develop an understanding of the demands of outdoor climbing before purchasing new shoes. But how is indoor climbing different from outdoor climbing? Many climbers still Nov 14, 2024 · An entry-level shoe seen on beginners and intermediate climbers alike, the La Sportiva Finale ($130) is not only an amazing bang for your buck but an extremely well-made shoe for all-day climbing Apr 22, 2025 · The Best Climbing Shoes for Women. Shop for Climbing Shoes at REI - Browse our extensive selection of trusted outdoor brands and high-quality recreation gear. Jun 30, 2021 · Nuances such as a stiff vs. Mar 13, 2023 · Performance shoes for indoor bouldering, differ from performance shoes for outdoor bouldering as indoor boulder shoes need to be much more sensitive. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, the right pair of climbing shoes is essential. The first factor you should consider when considering how to choose climbing shoes is where you'll be climbing most of the time. Why not both indoor and outdoor climbing? Indoor and outdoor climbing aren’t rivals — they complement each other. Key characteristics of indoor climbing shoes include; Mar 2, 2023 · Rock climbing, nowadays, is arguably more synonymous with indoor gyms filled with brightly colored bits of plastic than pristine outdoor granite, limestone, or sandstone walls where climbing first began. I like it but the heel is just a bit loose on really intense heel hools on small edges/holds. What are some common mistakes to avoid when transitioning to outdoor climbing? Transitioning from indoor to outdoor climbing entails navigating several common pitfalls that climbers should be mindful of to ensure a smooth transition. SILVERSTREET, TX 1401 Silver Street Houston, Texas 77007 Phone: 832-433-7211 Feb 18, 2025 · The best indoor bouldering shoes on the outdoor market in 2025. The testing process began by paring down the vast climbing shoe market to a selection of what we believe are the best based on popularity, customer ratings, and our authors' considerable experience. Nov 30, 2022 · The La Sportiva Theory is a purpose-made climbing shoe for hard indoor bouldering and competition climbing. Comfort is not king. For beginners, a neutral climbing shoe will work best. Feb 28, 2022 · Best Indoor Climbing Shoes: Black Diamond Shadow. outdoor climbing? Gearhead® Experts Alli and Dylan headed to St. Best Outdoor All-Rounder: Scarpa Arpia V ($169) Best Sport/Mixed Shoe: Unparallel Qubit ($186) Best Bouldering Shoe: Scarpa Drago XT ($229) Best for Beginners: Butora Rubicon ($150) Best Shoe for Steep Routes: La Sportiva Mandala ($209) Jan 11, 2022 · This La Sportiva climbing shoe is often named one of the best beginner climbing shoes, and it is undoubtedly a winning choice for that purpose. BOULDERING: Bouldering requires high performance at reduced comfort. Toe hooking sucks from factory but got them resoled recently with an added toe scum patch to make them a bit better there. La Sportiva Oktaki: My general shoe. If you’re sticking mostly to the gym, you’ll probably want a Velcro closure or slip-on shoes for easy on and off and durable soles (5mm of rubber) that can take a beating—your The integrated P3 system maintains the shoe’s shape for a long time and means you can always use the heel with good tension. com Shoes: Outdoor climbing shoes may have more aggressive tread and stiffer soles to handle natural rock features, as opposed to the softer, more sensitive shoes for indoor holds. Mar 23, 2023 · Gym Climbing vs Outdoor Climbing. Jul 17, 2024 · Indoor and outdoor rock climbing require different outfits best suited to each environment. One of the biggest differences between indoor and outdoor climbing is that gyms don’t offer much crack climbing terrain. While both types of shoes can be used for climbing, indoor shoes are usually better suited because they provide more stability and grip. Apr 2, 2023 · Scarpa Instinct VSR is moderately downturned with a slightly asymmetric climbing shoe which gives you a balance of toe power, flex, and comfort. Jan 4, 2023 · Best Sport Climbing Shoes: La Sportiva Solution Comp Climbing Shoe; Best Trad Climbing Shoes: La Sportiva TC Pro; Best Bouldering Shoes: Scarpa Instinct VS Climbing Shoes; Best Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet: Butora Acro Wide Fit Climbing Shoe; Best Indoor Climbing Shoes: Scarpa Drago Climbing Shoe; Best Budget Climbing Shoes: La Sportiva Finale Plus, since outdoor climbing does wear down shoes, particularly the rubber around the big toe – it’s best to use a general shoe until your footwork becomes more effective. . Jun 1, 2023 · Differences Between Indoor and Outdoor Climbing. Jan 11, 2025 · Indoor Climbing: Indoor climbing requires minimal gear shoes, harness, belay device, and a chalk bag are usually enough. From the 2020s until the present, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the indoor climbing gym industry saw substantial growth in the U. Outdoor climbing is more important to me, and is more stylistically varied, than indoor climbing, so I have a few pairs of shoes for different disciplines outdoors (crack, long multipitch, sport), plus a cheap pair of beater shoes for indoor climbing. Apr 16, 2025 · What to look for in sport climbing shoes; Ten things you need to know about climbing shoes; Our favorites; Honorable mentions; Most gear roundups cover new releases. Jan 8, 2021 · 21 of the LATEST new and updated best climbing shoes Jan 2021. Nov 17, 2023 · Here, we’ve compiled ten of our favorite bouldering shoes—and a list of ten things to think about when buying climbing shoes. If you primarily climb indoors at a climbing gym, you can buy a shoe with softer, less durable rubber that will allow you to smear on volumes and stand on big holds. Outdoor Climbing Mar 21, 2022 · See the chart below for an illustrated comparison of indoor vs. Whether you’re a newbie searching for your first pair of shoes or a seasoned sport climber , matching your shoe to the type of climbing you do — indoor or outdoor, steep or slabby — is crucial too. Many climbers keep their old climbing shoes for training in the gym and only use their nice climbing shoes while outdoor climbing. Transitioning from indoor to outdoor climbing is a rite of passage, offering new challenges and experiences. I’ve gone through dozens of shoes doing everything from alpine routes to V11 boulders, and would be fine with a pair of moderately broken-in Katana Velcros Mar 19, 2024 · How to Choose the Best Climbing Shoes Choosing the best climbing shoes for your needs depends on your preferred style of climbing, your expected volume of climbing, and the shape of your foot. Apr 16, 2025 · Over more than a decade, GearLab has tested more than 75 different rock climbing shoes. Soft, flat shoes are great for crack climbing, while soft downturned shoes are great for steep walls and indoor climbing, where smearing on volumes is commonly required. What’s more, wearing this bouldering shoe, I found that you can generate lots of power and is perfect for the gym or the rock. Like every climbing shoe, the right one for you ultimately comes down to how well the shoe fits your foot and how well-suited it is to the climbing terrain. If you primarily climb outdoors at backcountry crags, you may want to choose a stiffer, more durable shoe that can withstand some abuse. Indoor vs Outdoor Climbing Shoes: Choose the Right Shoe for the Job . Should I choose different climbing shoes for indoor vs. For indoor climbers, most gyms recommend wearing breathable, flexible, moisture-wicking gym clothes and Jul 8, 2024 · KATY, TX 25410 Katy Mills Parkway Katy, Texas 77494 Phone: 832-437-9091. Jun 23, 2024 · One of the main drawbacks of indoor bouldering is the lack of natural elements. Mar 5, 2024 · Aggressive climbing shoes are designed with a downturned toe and a curved shape to facilitate precise footwork on overhangs and small holds. V4 is going to be easier than V5 indoors. I climbed in various countries and just can't compare grades. That being said, there are women’s-specific climbing shoes out there. The last is the thing that not only sets the size and shape but also the asymmetry of the shoe. Many new climbers are drawn to the Tarantulace — and for good reason. Indoor climbing shoes are typically more flexible and have stickier rubber soles to provide better grip on the artificial holds found in climbing gyms. But while outdoor climbing is incredibly rewarding, it does require more preparation. outdoor grades. Feb 19, 2021 · Men’s vs. Fitting your climbing shoes for comfort is like buying a car because you like the driver’s seat. Section divider Ten Things You Need to Know About Climbing Shoes 1. When a company designs a new suite of shoes, they send pairs to us and our testers, and we climb in them, compare notes, write a review, and then, later, do a roundup of the latest and greatest releases of the year. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Mar 14, 2024 · So, to conclude the Scarpa Origin VS are a great and easy-to-wear climbing shoe, perfectly comfortable to wear all day long both for indoor and outdoor climbing. Climbing shoes are designed for indoor use only and should not be used outdoors. vedwj zpsfb dyjrd buc orpt yaulrpp wabwp ybqhf fra ewtvay xweq btxnu uew uorfc lktg