Whether you are a regular at a local climbing gym or you are starting to experiment with bouldering and mountaineering, the right climbing shoes help you progress and perform to your fullest extent. Not only do well-fitting shoes make you more comfortable during your climb, they also improve your safety, as you can find footholds and grip against the rough surfaces much easier. Plus, rock climbing shoes are made to suit a variety of styles and experience levels, so you can finetune the footwear to meet your unique needs, terrain, and skill level. If you have questions about purchasing these shoes, below are answers to some of the most common.![]()
There are three main profiles for rock climbing shoes. The first is a neutral profile, which is where the shoes have a somewhat flat base with a minimal arch in the middle. This style is often preferred by beginners, as it gives a natural feeling and resembles traditional sneakers. Neutral shoes are also more comfortable to wear, as you don't have to adjust to a severe arch. However, they don't provide as much flexibility or stability as other profiles. A moderate profile is similar to a neutral one, except it has a noticeable arch in the middle. Shoes with this profile are average, which means they can be used by both beginners and people with more experience. The arch lends itself to more intense climbing scenarios, as it allows you shift more force to your toes, helping you grip in tight spaces. Finally, an aggressive profile is the most extreme. This has a severe arch in the middle and offers the best performance bouldering and mountaineering. The shape of these climbing shoes forces your weight onto your toes, giving you the most power possible when climbing.
While many varieties of rock climbing shoes are not advertised as being "waterproof," most of them have excellent resistance to water. This is because they are made to withstand extreme conditions and often use tough leather or suede leather on the upper, both of which resist water. Additionally, the outsole is made of tough, durable rubber, so you don't have to worry about water seeping in through the bottom. However, since they are not made to be fully submerged in water or left in damp areas for long periods, you should maintain your climbing shoes properly after they get wet to prevent mold and mildew. To do this, remove any organic material stuck to the shoes and let them dry out completely in a warm area, sunny area. This helps remove the water naturally without the use of intense heat, such as in a dryer.
Setting off on a bouldering and rock climbing adventure is an excellent pastime and a fun way to exercise and test your limits. Our team at OpticsPlanet is proud to help facilitate this experience for all explorers and enthusiasts, which is why we have assembled a variety of climbing shoes from industry-leading brands, including Black Diamond, Scarpa, and La Sportiva.