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Best Climbing Shoes (2026): From Beginner to Advanced Level
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The most common mistake is buying an aggressive climbing shoe two sizes down because that's what good climbers wear: it hurts, it won't let you stand on holds properly and you end up climbing less. To get started, what works is a flat shape, a snug but pain-free fit and good rubber. We chose nine models, from your first day at the climbing gym to technical routes. Prices from Decathlon and Amazon (Spanish stores) on September 29, 2026.
How we compared
- Shape: flat to start; asymmetric or downturned for intermediate and advanced levels.
- Closure: velcro for the gym and bouldering; laces for a more precise fit.
- Rubber: Vibram XS Grip, XS Edge or equivalent, and resolable.
- Intended level and comfort during long sessions.
- Buyer ratings and actual price.
Quick comparison
| Climbing shoe | Price | Shape and closure | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simond First Klimb | €44.99 | Flat, velcro | Beginner |
| Simond Klimb | €59.99 | Flat, velcro | Beginner |
| Boreal Beta 2.0 | €85.49 | Flat, velcro | Beginner to intermediate |
| Scarpa Origin | MSRP approx. €130 | Flat, velcro | Beginner |
| La Sportiva Tarantulace | Approx. €83-95 | Flat, laces | Beginner to intermediate |
| Simond Vertika Soft | €89.99 | Mildly asymmetric, velcro | Intermediate |
| Simond Vertika | €89.99 | Mildly asymmetric, velcro | Intermediate |
| Simond Edge Soft V2 | €109.99 | Asymmetric, velcro | Intermediate to advanced |
| La Sportiva Miura 2025 | €123.99 | Asymmetric and downturned, velcro | Advanced |
Flat vs. asymmetric or downturned climbing shoes
A flat climbing shoe keeps your foot in a natural position. It's comfortable, works for the gym, slab and long routes, and it's the one you should buy to start.
An asymmetric model directs power toward your big toe, and a downturned (arched) one curls your foot like a claw. They give more precision on edges and grip on overhangs, but they squeeze more and tire you out sooner. They make sense once you climb with good footwork.
Velcro or laces
Velcro is the most practical: you take them off between routes or between boulder problems. It's the most common closure at the climbing gym.
Laces adjust from toe to ankle and let you fine-tune the fit if you have a narrow or irregular foot. In exchange, they take longer to put on and take off.
What size to choose
To start, snug but pain-free: your toes touch the end and can be slightly bent, but you should be able to last a whole route without suffering. In many beginner models, your street shoe size is enough.
Leather shoes stretch with use; synthetic ones, very little. If you can, try them on in the afternoon, when your feet are slightly more swollen.
1. Simond First Klimb
€44.99
For your first sessions at the climbing gym without spending much.
ShapeFlat
ClosureDouble velcro
SoleMedium-stiffness rubber
LevelBeginner
Pros
- Flat, comfortable shape: worn in your street shoe size.
- Double velcro: on and off in seconds.
- 4.4 from 766 reviews.
Cons
- Sole can't be resoled: when it wears out, you have to replace them.
- Not very precise on small holds.
2. Simond Klimb
€59.99
The best for starting out if you'll climb seriously, indoors and outdoors.
ShapeFlat
ClosureDouble velcro
SoleVibram XS Grip 4 mm
LevelBeginner
Pros
- 4 mm Vibram XS Grip sole, very sticky.
- Resolable, with a wear indicator.
- 4.6 from 1,261 reviews.
Cons
- Straight last: falls short on overhangs.
- Runs slightly small: try the size first.
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3. Boreal Beta 2.0
€85.49
For anyone who wants a name-brand flat shoe for the gym, training and long routes.
ShapeFlat
ClosureDouble velcro
SoleBoreal Zenith rubber, 4-4.5 mm
LevelBeginner to intermediate
Pros
- Flat shape: comfortable for many hours.
- Quick-closing double velcro.
- Medium-stiffness sole that helps on edges.
Cons
- No ratings on Decathlon yet.
- Limited performance on bouldering and overhangs.
4. Scarpa Origin
MSRP approx. €130
For beginners looking for comfort and a high-end sole.
ShapeFlat (neutral)
ClosureDouble velcro
SoleVibram XS Edge
Upper2 mm suede
Pros
- Neutral last with no downturn: very comfortable.
- Vibram XS Edge sole, good on edges.
- Double velcro and elastic panel: easy to put on.
Cons
- Expensive for a beginner model.
- Falls short on technical or overhanging routes.
5. La Sportiva Tarantulace
Approx. €83-95
For anyone who prefers laces and a durable all-around climbing shoe.
ShapeFlat, slightly asymmetric
ClosureLaces
SoleFriXion RS
UpperUnlined leather
Pros
- Laces: precise fit across the whole foot.
- FriXion RS sole, sticky and durable.
- Leather upper: molds to your foot with use.
Cons
- Slower to put on and take off than velcro.
- The leather stretches: don't buy a loose size.
6. Simond Vertika Soft
€89.99
For intermediate climbers who want more precision.
ShapeSlightly asymmetric and downturned
ClosureVelcro
SoleVibram XS Grip 4 mm
LevelIntermediate
Pros
- Slightly asymmetric and downturned: more precision on the toes.
- 4 mm Vibram XS Grip, with rubber on the toe box and heel too.
- Resolable.
Cons
- Less comfortable than a flat shoe for long sessions.
- 4.3 from 82 reviews: less proven than the Klimb.
7. Simond Vertika
€89.99
For slab and edging with a slightly firmer sole.
ShapeSlightly asymmetric
ClosureDouble velcro
SoleVibram XS Grip 4 mm
StiffnessSemi-stiff
Pros
- Semi-stiff: good support on small holds.
- Narrow, slightly asymmetric toe.
- Double velcro for a secure fit.
Cons
- Only 6 reviews (4.2).
- Less sensitivity than a soft model.
8. Simond Edge Soft V2
€109.99
For demanding bouldering and sport climbing, at a good level.
ShapeSlightly asymmetric
ClosureVelcro with elastic
SoleVibram XS Grip 4 mm, split
LevelIntermediate to advanced
Pros
- Split, soft sole: lots of sensitivity.
- 4 mm Vibram XS Grip.
- Wide velcro with elastic: adjusts quickly.
Cons
- Requires good footwork to get the most out of it.
- 4.3 from 122 reviews.
9. La Sportiva Miura 2025
€123.99
For advanced climbers looking for maximum precision on edges.
ShapeAsymmetric and downturned
ClosureThree velcro straps
SoleVibram XS Edge 4 mm
LevelIntermediate to advanced
Pros
- Very asymmetric and arched: narrow, precise toe.
- 4 mm Vibram XS Edge, durable and firm on edges.
- 4.5 from 27 reviews.
Cons
- Not for beginners: squeezes and tires you out in long sessions.
- The most expensive on the list.
Verdict
If you're starting out, the Simond Klimb for €60 is the smartest buy: flat, with Vibram rubber and resolable. If you prefer laces or a specialist brand, go with the La Sportiva Tarantulace or the Scarpa Origin. Once you climb comfortably, the Simond Vertika Soft is the logical step up to an asymmetric model. For bouldering and demanding edges, the Edge Soft V2 for sensitivity or the La Sportiva Miura 2025 for precision.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I size down in climbing shoes?
To start, not at all or half a size: snug but pain-free. Very small sizes are for aggressive models and experienced climbers.
Can I use the same climbing shoes indoors and outdoors?
Yes. A flat model with good rubber works in both places. The difference shows more on technical or steeply overhanging routes.
What does resoling climbing shoes mean?
Replacing the sole rubber when it wears out. It's cheaper than buying new climbing shoes if the upper is still in good shape.
Do you wear socks with climbing shoes?
Usually not. Without socks you feel the hold better and your foot doesn't move inside.
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