As we approach the world of climbing, we immediately confront certain stereotypes associated with this sport: for example, the idea of having to wear extremely painful climbing shoes is certainly one of the most widespread. Climbing shoes are a relatively recent creation when compared to other specialized footwear used in sports with longer histories. The birth of the first prototypes of climbing shoes was a natural consequence of a very well-defined need: to better feel the footholds under the feet.
Initially, climbers relied on rigid and structured mountain shoes that allowed them to utilize only sizable edges and holes. However, as climbing shoes evolved to offer heightened precision and sensitivity, climbers began to place their trust even in the tiniest footholds, supporting their entire body weight. This intricate interplay between equipment evolution and climbing techniques has propelled sport climbing to the remarkable heights it attains today.
Climbing shoes for beginners are generally characterized by features related to comfort, neutral shape, and foot support that allow newcomers to wear them without suffering too much. Within this broad range of climbing shoes, however, there are also many variables such as the materials used, which can be natural or synthetic, the type of lacing, and the sole. Each small variable caters to different needs and preferences, giving you the possibility to choose among a wide array of models. We introduce to you our reference models when it comes to climbing shoes for beginners.
La Sportiva Tarantula: ideal for the first steps at the crag
The La Sportiva Tarantula climbing shoes are a timeless classic frequently seen at climbing test days on the crag and in numerous beginner climbing courses. Designed with all the essential features for a pleasant initial climbing experience, these shoes offer softness, breathability, and a mildly asymmetrical shape that avoids undue pressure on the foot.
The popularity of the Tarantula model among novice climbers and in climbing courses has prompted La Sportiva to diversify its offerings, introducing various versions that vary in color and lacing systems. One such version is the Tarantulace, which employs a lacing closure and is particularly well-suited for crag climbing.
Thanks to the inherent breathability of leather, these climbing shoes are an excellent choice for both summer outdoor adventures and indoor climbing sessions. The lace closure option further counteracts the natural tendency of leather to stretch, enabling you to customize the fit with each use.
Evolv Defy: the long-lasting climbing shoes
While La Sportiva Tarantula is a great choice for those seeking the advantages of leather shoes, such as enduring comfort throughout extended climbing sessions and breathability, the Evolv Defy emerges as the top preference for climbers who lean towards synthetic materials or require a vegan-friendly option.
The Defy climbing shoes from Evolv epitomize the quintessential "all-round" footwear, maintaining their structural integrity over time and ensuring remarkable precision on vertical surfaces. Incorporating rubber inserts of varying thickness in the toe region, they excel in both comfort and suitability for extended usage or indoor climbing. The Defy model features a dual Velcro closure, allowing for swift on-and-off transitions, and is also offered in a lace-up version.
Evolv Defy stands out as an exceptionally durable choice for novice climbers, delivering an almost indestructible performance while still accommodating the demands of those new to the sport.
SCARPA Origin: great solution also for multipitch climbing
The SCARPA Origin introduces a slightly more technical and versatile approach to beginners climbing shoes. While remaining an ideal choice for novice climbers across all disciplines, they have also gained popularity in multipitch climbing scenarios. The SCARPA Origin offers a well-balanced combination of softness, durability, breathability, and fit.
These climbing shoes feature a design that caters perfectly to beginners, boasting a flat and subtly asymmetrical sole. The SCARPA Origin serves as a multipurpose footwear option, ensuring enduring comfort through its seamlessly constructed upper leather. The presence of supple and elastic bellows in the instep area facilitates precise adjustments, allowing the shoes to conform snugly to the contours of your feet. A dual Velcro strap system enables easy readjustment of the closure.
The 5 mm Vision sole utilized in the SCARPA Origin delivers a reliable combination of durability and traction, making it a dependable choice for various climbing scenarios.
Five Ten Kirigami: climbing shoes for courses
Five Ten's climbing shoes designed for beginners come with the name of Kirigami. Prioritizing comfort without compromising on durability, these synthetic shoes are engineered to maintain their original shape over time, offering unwavering support during your initial forays into vertical climbing.
The Kirigami series boasts a neutral fit and moderate stiffness, rendering them perfect for educational institutions, climbing courses, and group outings. The relaxed fit and spacious toe box contribute to extended wear without causing any discomfort, allowing you to keep them on for hours on end.