Picking your first pair of climbing shoes can feel intimidating. With so many designs, shapes, and features, it’s easy to wonder: Which ones are best for beginners?

The truth is, a good entry-level climbing shoe isn’t about flashy performance — it’s about comfort, durability, and giving you the right foundation to progress. In this guide, we’ll break down the key features to look for when choosing your first pair.

Comfort Comes First

When you’re new to climbing, you’ll spend a lot of time learning proper footwork and body movement. That means comfort should be your top priority.

A good beginner shoe should feel snug but not painful. Avoid sizing down aggressively — shoes that are too tight can cause discomfort and even injuries. Instead, choose a pair that supports your foot while allowing you to climb for longer sessions without constantly taking them off.

Flat or Slightly Downturned Profile

Climbing shoes come in different shapes, from flat to highly downturned (aggressive). For beginners, a flat or slightly downturned profile is ideal.

• Flat shoes keep your foot in a natural position, which helps you focus on learning precise foot placements.
• Aggressive shoes are designed for advanced climbers tackling steep terrain, but they’re uncomfortable for long periods and unnecessary for entry-level climbing.

A neutral shoe gives you the versatility you need while keeping things comfortable.

The Evolv Kronos delivers a perfect balance of comfort, durability, and fit — making it a solid choice for climbers moving beyond their first pair. Available at Boulder Planet Showroom.

Stiffness and Support

Entry-level shoes often have stiffer midsoles to support your feet. This stiffness makes it easier to stand on small holds without straining your toes and helps reduce fatigue during longer climbing sessions.

As you progress, you may eventually move to softer, more sensitive shoes for advanced techniques — but stiff shoes are perfect for building confidence early on.

Durable Rubber

Beginner climbers tend to drag their toes or scrape their feet against the wall while learning technique. That’s why a durable rubber sole is a must.

Look for shoes that balance stickiness with durability. Friction helps you trust your footholds, while durability ensures your shoes last through many gym sessions.

Closure Systems: Velcro, Laces, or Slip-Ons

Different closure systems can affect how your shoes feel and how easy they are to use:

• Velcro: Quick to put on and take off, perfect for gym climbing where you may remove shoes between climbs.
• Laces: Offer a more adjustable, customized fit — great if your foot is narrow, wide, or you want to wear shoes longer.
• Slip-ons: Less common for beginners but can improve foot strength and awareness.

For most new climbers, velcro or lace-up shoes are the best entry point.

Price Point

You don’t need to spend a fortune on your first pair of climbing shoes. Many great entry-level models are reasonably priced, offering comfort, durability, and support without premium features that aren’t necessary for beginners.

Invest in a pair that feels good and fits your budget — and save the high-performance shoes for when you’re ready to push into advanced climbing.

Built for comfort and performance, the Tenaya Arai is a versatile all-rounder that supports long sessions without sacrificing precision. Try it on at Boulder Planet Showroom.

When to Upgrade

How do you know it’s time to move on from your entry-level shoes? Look out for signs like:

• Wanting more precision on tiny footholds.
• Tackling steep boulders or sport climbs where aggressive shoes give an advantage.
• Feeling limited by stiffness when trying harder climbs.

Your first climbing shoes are a foundation, not the endgame. They’ll help you build confidence until you’re ready for the next step.

Conclusion
The best entry-level climbing shoe is comfortable, supportive, durable, and affordable. It’s not about squeezing into the tightest shoe or chasing performance features you don’t yet need — it’s about finding a shoe that helps you enjoy climbing and improve steadily.

Not sure which pair is right for you? Visit Boulder Planet Showroom to try on different climbing shoes and get expert advice on choosing your perfect first pair.