10 Best Rock Climbing Shoes 2025 in the United States

The La Sportiva Mens Skwama Performance Rock Climbing Shoes stand out for their blend of comfort and precision. Designed with both microfiber and leather, these shoes offer durability and breathability, ensuring your feet stay comfortable during climbs. The hook and loop closure system allows for a snug and precise fit, making them easy to put on and take off quickly. This can be very handy when switching between climbs or adjusting fit on the go.

The SCARPA Instinct VS Rock Climbing Shoes are designed for sport climbing and bouldering, offering a blend of sensitivity and support. These shoes are recommended for climbers with wider feet, as they feature a wider toe box. It's advised to downsize only by half a size from your street shoe size for the best fit. The dual Vibram rubber soles provide excellent stiffness and grip; the XS Edge rubber in the forefoot ensures you can stand on thin edges, while the XS Grip 2 in the heel is perfect for heel hooks on various rock types. The inclusion of a large patch of rubber for toe hooks adds to the versatility of these shoes, making them suitable for advanced techniques.

The SCARPA Instinct VSR Rock Climbing Shoes are specifically designed for sport climbing and bouldering. They are a great fit for lighter climbers who may find stiffer models uncomfortable. With sizing advice suggesting you stick to your street shoe size or even go larger, these shoes address the concern of a non-stretching synthetic upper.