Know Your Shoes: How To Pick Your First Pair Of Climbing Shoes

Rock climbing is a fun and challenging activity, but it's important to have the right gear. One of the most important pieces of equipment is a good pair of climbing shoes. However, finding the right fit can be tricky. That's why we're here to provide you with some helpful tips on how to choose the best fit for your climbing shoes!

1. Know your climbing style: The type of climbing you do will impact the fit of your shoes. Are you a boulderer or a sport climber? Do you prefer trad climbing? Knowing your climbing style will help you choose the right shoe for you.

   The Evolv Zenist (left) is recommended for bouldering due to its soft and sensitive design which allows the user to feel the footholds better. On the other hand, the Tenaya RA (right) is better suited for longer routes such as highwall climbing as its thicker rubber provides greater support to the user.
   
   

2. Try on different sizes: Climbing shoes sizes can vary between brands and models. So, it's best to try on a few sizes to find the perfect fit. And don't just stand there like a statue, get up and put some weight on those feet!
   
   
3. Check the fit of each shoe: Climbing shoes should be snug but not painful. Make sure there's no wiggle room between your toes and the front of the shoe, but also ensure your toes aren't squished together like a can of sardines. And, the heel should fit snugly, with no slipping.
   
   
4. Think about your foot shape: Foot shape can also impact the fit of your shoes. If you have a wider foot, look for shoes with a wider toe box. And, if you have a high arch, find shoes with extra arch support.

   Generally, most beginner shoes such as Tenaya Tanta is extremely adaptable to different widths of feet.
   
   

5. Break them in: Don't expect your shoes to feel perfect right out of the box. It takes time to break them in. Wear them around the house or on easy climbs to get them comfortable before taking on tougher routes.
   
   
6. Consider the closure type: Climbing shoes come with various closure options such as laces, Velcro, and slip-on. Think about which closure type works best for your style and preferences.
   
   

In conclusion, finding the right fit for your climbing shoes is essential for your comfort and performance on the rock. So, try on different sizes, check the fit of each shoe, think about your foot shape, break them in, and consider the closure type. With these tips, you'll be sure to find the perfect fit for your climbing shoes and conquer any climb that comes your way!