We already explored climbing shoes in more detail, and what you should keep in mind when buying. You can check out this extensive guide here, or by clicking the link below:
In this definitive guide, we will cover everything you need to know when buying a (new) pair of climbing shoes!
In this more dedicated guide, we will look specifically at the best climbing shoes for beginners.
Things to Consider When Buying a Beginner Climbing Shoes
For your first pair, we recommend a mostly flat sole, for all-around use (neutral climbing shoes). They usually do alright in any situation and they are oftentimes cheaper. As you get more experienced, you will start to learn what you need in a climbing shoe.
Make sure that the shoes are comfortable as well. Especially when you’re first starting out, you want to be able to do a lot of climbing and it best that the shoes don’t make your feet hurt.
You may find yourself wanting a more inexpensive pair, but if they’re too uncomfortable or not what feels best for your foot then spending an extra few dollars could save you from buying yet another pair of shoes later on.
We do highly recommend that you try to find somewhere (an indoor gym, for example) to rent shoes and try them out first if you can, especially if you have little to no experience with buying climbing shoes as a beginner.
For more tips, check out our Climbing Shoes Buying Guide!
The Best Climbing Shoes for Beginners in 2023
Below, let’s now look at some of the best climbing shoes we recommend for beginning climbers.
Make sure to go through the product reviews of each model of climbing shoes, so you can learn from other customers about getting the right size for your feet!
1. Black Diamond Momentum Lace Climbing Shoe – Men’s
A great option for a beginner are these Black Diamond Momentum Lace climbing shoes. If you go through the 250+ reviews, you’ll see they are loved by many, and mostly beginners!
2. Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoe – Men’s
Another Black Diamond Momentum climbing shoe, but with two velcro straps for fit adjustability instead of laces.
3. Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe 2019
A great all-around comfortable shoe that is precise enough for your first climbing sessions. Size up for a comfort fit, which we recommend for beginners, or size down for a more aggressive performance fit. The shoes come pre downsized! We recommend for new climbers to go up a full size from their street shoe size.
4. Climb X Crush Lace – Gray Climbing Shoe
A great bouldering/climbing shoe for beginners, at a great price!
Conclusion
When you’re first starting out as a beginner climber, we recommend going for a mostly flat sole for all-around use, so neutral climbing shoes.
Happy climbing!
