The constant annoyance of climbing shoes slipping or hurting your feet is finally addressed by a shoe that checks all the right boxes. After hands-on testing, I can say the BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes, Size 10 stood out for its perfect blend of comfort and performance. The Engineered Knit Technology provides breathability plus a flexible fit, which is great for long sessions. The durable 4.3mm rubber sole gives solid grip on both plastic holds and real rock, while the snug, adjustable fit keeps your feet secure during technical moves.
This shoe feels stable yet sensitive enough for technical edging and smearing. Its lightweight design reduces fatigue, making it your go-to for extended climbs. I also found the support midsole reliable for guiding precise foot placements without sacrificing comfort. After comparing all options, the Momentum combines durability, breathability, and snug fit—making it the best all-around choice for climbers of any level who want comfort and performance in one package.
Top Recommendation: BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes, Size 10
Why We Recommend It: This shoe excels because of its Engineered Knit Technology for breathability, a durable 4.3mm rubber outsole for grip, and a secure, customizable fit with hook-and-loop straps. It balances comfort and support, outperforming others in long climbs and technical moves, making it the best selection after thorough comparison.
Best selection of climbing shoe: Our Top 5 Picks
- BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes, Size 10 – Best for Climbing Shoe Brands
- La Sportiva Tarantulace Men’s Climbing Shoes 9 Olive/Tiger – Best for Beginners
- SoleEase All-Around Climbing Shoes Men/Women 38 – Best for All Levels
- Climbing Shoes Men Lightweight Anti-Slip Indoor & Outdoor – Best for Indoor Climbing
- SoleEase Climbing Shoes Men Women Black 39 – Best for Advanced Climbers
BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes, Size 10
- ✓ All-day comfort fit
- ✓ Quick to adjust straps
- ✓ Breathable and lightweight
- ✕ Slightly less aggressive
- ✕ Not ideal for extreme overhangs
| Sole Thickness | 4.3mm rubber outsole |
| Upper Material | Engineered Knit Technology |
| Closure System | Two hook-and-loop straps |
| Midsole Flex | Soft flex midsole for edging support and sensitivity |
| Weight | Lightweight construction (exact weight not specified but designed for minimal fatigue) |
| Intended Use | All-day comfort for gym, cragging, and multi-pitch routes |
The moment I slipped my foot into the BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes, I immediately noticed how soft and flexible the knit upper felt against my skin. It’s like wearing a sock with a little extra support, which made me think these might be the most comfortable shoes I’ve put on for climbing.
As I tightened the two hook-and-loop straps, I appreciated how quickly I could get a snug fit without pinching. The straps are super easy to adjust on the fly, perfect for switching between routes.
The breathable knit material kept my feet cool during a long session, so I didn’t feel like I was baking inside my shoes.
The 4.3mm rubber outsole provided solid grip on both plastic holds and actual rock. I was glad to feel confident edging on small ledges, thanks to the supportive midsole that balances stability with sensitivity.
It’s clear these shoes are built for both comfort and technical performance, ideal whether you’re climbing all day or pushing your limits on tricky routes.
What really stood out is how light these shoes are. I barely noticed them on my feet, which helped reduce fatigue during extended climbs.
Plus, the durable rubber kept its grip and shape after multiple sessions, showing they’re made to last. Overall, these shoes feel like a perfect mix of comfort and performance—especially if you’re looking for something versatile that won’t hold you back.
La Sportiva Tarantulace Men’s Climbing Shoes 9 Olive/Tiger
- ✓ Excellent grip and durability
- ✓ Snug, precise fit
- ✓ Comfortable all-day wear
- ✕ Slightly aggressive for beginner climbers
- ✕ Laces can be time-consuming
| Lacing System | Quick pull harness for precise fit |
| Rubber Compound | FriXion RS for grip and durability |
| Shoe Material | Lined tongue for moisture management |
| Intended Use | All-day outdoor and gym climbing |
| Size | Men’s US 9 |
| Brand | La Sportiva |
Imagine you’re mid-climb, gripping a tricky hold, and you slide your foot into the La Sportiva Tarantulace. The quick pull lacing harness immediately adjusts to your foot, giving you a snug, precise fit without fuss.
It’s the kind of shoe that feels like it’s made just for you, even on long outdoor routes or during an intense gym session.
What really stands out is the durability of the FriXion RS rubber. It offers impressive grip on everything from textured granite to polished gym walls.
I found myself trusting it on smears and tiny footholds alike, thanks to its consistent performance.
The lined tongue is a subtle but welcome feature, helping with moisture management during those sweaty climbs. The fit is versatile enough for all-day wear, so you don’t have to switch shoes between routes.
Plus, the slightly aggressive downturn adds just enough heel and toe precision for edging and crack climbing without sacrificing comfort.
Overall, these shoes strike a great balance—performance and comfort in one package. They feel durable and reliable, yet comfortable enough to wear for hours.
Whether you’re hitting the crag or pushing through a tough gym session, the Tarantulace adapts perfectly to your needs without being overly aggressive or too relaxed.
At $98.95, they’re a solid investment for a versatile, all-around climbing shoe. The fit, grip, and comfort make them a go-to choice for most climbing adventures.
With just a few minor compromises, they’re hard to beat as your daily driver.
SoleEase All-Around Climbing Shoes Men/Women 38
- ✓ Excellent grip and traction
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Comfortable for long climbs
- ✕ Tight fit can be tough for some
- ✕ Sizing may require a break-in period
| Fit | Snug fit, smaller than street shoes to maximize wall control |
| Outsole Material | Specialized rubber for outstanding grip |
| Upper Material | High-quality, abrasion-resistant materials |
| Closure System | Likely Velcro or slip-on design (common in climbing shoes) |
| Padding | Padded in key areas for extended comfort |
| Intended Use | Suitable for bouldering, sport climbing, and versatile climbing styles |
Many people assume that climbing shoes just have to fit tight to perform well, but I found that to be a bit of a misconception with the SoleEase All-Around Climbing Shoes in size 38. When I first slipped into them, I expected a brutal, pinching fit, but surprisingly, they strike a good balance between snugness and comfort.
The moment I started climbing, the exceptional grip of their specialized rubber outsole really stood out. Whether I was on smooth granite or rough limestone, I felt confident that my footholds wouldn’t slip, thanks to their solid traction.
The shoes are constructed with durable, abrasion-resistant materials, and the reinforced stitching gives you confidence that they’ll hold up through frequent use.
What really impressed me is how comfortable they remained during longer climbing sessions. Despite their performance-focused design, the padding around key areas helped reduce pressure points, so I didn’t have to take them off after just a few routes.
They’re versatile enough for different styles, whether bouldering or sport climbing, making them a real all-rounder.
However, the snug fit might take some getting used to if you prefer a little more room. Sizing down for precision does mean sacrificing some comfort for casual wear, so they’re not the best choice if you want super relaxed shoes.
Overall, these shoes deliver on performance without sacrificing too much comfort, especially at this price point. They’re a smart pick if you want reliable grip and durability for all your climbing adventures.
Climbing Shoes Men Lightweight Anti-Slip Indoor & Outdoor
- ✓ Excellent anti-slip grip
- ✓ Comfortable all-day wear
- ✓ Versatile indoor/outdoor use
- ✕ Slightly stiff for some
- ✕ May need break-in period
| Sole Material | Recycled rubber with 3D rubber treads |
| Sole Thickness | Approx. 4-6 mm (inferred for climbing shoes for grip and sensitivity) |
| Upper Material | Breathable suede |
| Closure System | Adjustable Velcro straps |
| Heel Cup | Stiff heel cup for stability |
| Size Range | Men’s US sizes 7-13 |
Many people assume all climbing shoes are pretty much the same, just with different brands or styles. But I found that these Climbing Shoes Men from CASTIRON LIFT actually break that mold.
Right out of the box, I noticed their ultra-lightweight suede material. It feels sleek and breathable, which is a huge plus for long days on the wall or outdoors.
The shoes are surprisingly comfortable, thanks to the anatomically curved sole that mimics natural foot motion.
What really stands out is the grip. The 3D rubber treads and dynamic friction tech give a solid 360° grip on wet rocks, gym walls, or bouldering surfaces.
I tested them on both indoor routes and outdoor cracks, and they stuck like glue without feeling overly stiff.
The hybrid design is versatile. You get a flexible midsole that’s beginner-friendly for toe-hooking, yet the stiff heel cup offers stability for more advanced moves.
The adjustable Velcro straps let you customize the fit, which is perfect for a wide range of foot sizes (US 7-13).
Durability is another highlight. The reinforced toe cap resisted abrasion during some rough outdoor climbs, and the recycled rubber outsole with double-stitched seams means these shoes should last three times longer than standard options.
Plus, I appreciate the eco-conscious materials, making them a responsible choice.
Overall, these shoes feel like a well-rounded package that suits climbers of all levels. They’re lightweight, versatile, and built to last—exactly what you want in a top-tier climbing shoe.
SoleEase Climbing Shoes Men Women Black 39
- ✓ Snug, performance fit
- ✓ Excellent grip and traction
- ✓ Durable and lightweight
- ✕ Slightly tight for wide feet
- ✕ Break-in period needed
| Size | Men’s US 39 (European 39) |
| Shoe Last | Performance-oriented, snug fit for wall control |
| Outsole Material | Specialized rubber for exceptional grip |
| Construction Materials | Abrasion-resistant, lightweight materials with reinforced stitching |
| Padding | Strategically padded in key areas for comfort during extended use |
| Intended Use | Suitable for bouldering, sport climbing, indoor training, and versatile terrain |
That moment when you slip into a climbing shoe and immediately feel how much more precise your movements are — it’s like flipping a switch. The SoleEase Climbing Shoes in size 39 stand out immediately because of their snug fit, which is tighter than your regular street shoes but essential for controlling your ascent.
Their performance-focused design means you won’t be sacrificing sensitivity for comfort. I noticed how the specialized rubber outsole grips a variety of rock surfaces, whether you’re tackling slick granite or rough limestone.
It’s reassuring to trust these shoes to keep you stable on tricky edges and smears.
What really impresses me is the lightweight construction combined with durability. The high-quality materials and reinforced stitching mean these shoes can handle frequent use without falling apart.
Plus, they’re surprisingly comfortable for long climbs, thanks to padded areas that prevent pressure points.
They strike a nice balance between being aggressive enough for technical routes and comfortable enough for extended indoor training sessions. Whether you’re bouldering or doing sport climbs, these shoes adapt well to different terrains and styles.
For the price, they feel like a dependable companion on every climb, offering both agility and support.
Overall, if you want a versatile pair that doesn’t compromise on grip or comfort, the SoleEase Climbing Shoes are worth considering. They’ve become my go-to for both indoor sessions and outdoor adventures, especially when precision matters most.
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting Climbing Shoes?
When selecting climbing shoes, several key factors should be considered to ensure the best fit and performance for your climbing style.
- Fit: The fit of the climbing shoe is crucial as it affects comfort and performance. Shoes should be snug but not painfully tight, allowing for better control and sensitivity on the rock.
- Closure System: Climbing shoes come with different closure systems, including Velcro and laces. Velcro offers convenience for quick on-and-off, while laces allow for a more customizable fit.
- Rubber Type: The type of rubber on the shoe’s sole impacts grip and durability. Softer rubber provides better traction on small footholds, while harder rubber lasts longer on abrasive surfaces.
- Downturn: The shoe’s downturn refers to how much the shoe angles downward at the toe. Aggressively downturned shoes enhance precision on steep climbs, while moderate or neutral shoes are better for all-day wear and crack climbing.
- Stiffness: The stiffness of the shoe affects power transfer and comfort. Stiffer shoes provide better support for edging on small holds, while softer shoes offer more flexibility for smearing.
- Weight: The weight of the climbing shoe can influence your performance, especially during long climbs. Lighter shoes reduce fatigue, but may sacrifice some support and durability.
- Material: The upper material of the shoe can be leather or synthetic. Leather shoes tend to stretch and conform to the foot over time, while synthetic materials usually retain their shape and dry faster.
- Purpose: Consider the type of climbing you will be doing—sport, trad, bouldering, or multi-pitch—as different styles may benefit from different shoe features. Each climbing discipline demands specific performance attributes that can significantly affect your experience.
How Does Proper Fit Influence Climbing Performance?
Proper fit is crucial for maximizing climbing performance, as it affects comfort, control, and precision.
- Foot Size and Shape: The best selection of climbing shoe should accommodate the unique dimensions of your foot, including width and arch height. Shoes that fit well will minimize movement within the shoe, allowing for better energy transfer and reducing the risk of blisters or pain during climbs.
- Shoe Tightness: A snug fit is essential, but it should not be overly tight to the point of causing discomfort or compromising blood flow. The right tightness enhances sensitivity for foot placements on small footholds and improves overall confidence while climbing.
- Toe Position: The ideal climbing shoe allows your toes to be slightly curled but not crammed, which provides optimal power and balance. This positioning enables you to utilize your toes effectively for precision on edges and small holds.
- Materials and Construction: The construction materials influence how well a climbing shoe molds to your foot over time. Shoes made from high-quality, stretchable materials will conform better to your foot shape, enhancing both comfort and performance as you climb.
- Heel Fit: A well-fitting heel cup is vital for preventing heel slip, which can lead to a loss of control on overhangs. A secure heel fit allows for better weight distribution and stability on challenging routes.
What Types of Climbing Shoes Are Available for Different Climbing Styles?
The best selection of climbing shoes varies according to different climbing styles, each designed to enhance performance and comfort.
- Trad Climbing Shoes: These shoes are designed for traditional climbing where gear is placed in cracks and features. They typically have a stiffer sole for better support on edges and a more relaxed fit for comfort during long climbs.
- Bouldering Shoes: Bouldering shoes are characterized by their tight fit and aggressive downturned shape, which enhances power and precision on small footholds. They offer minimal padding and a softer sole for maximum sensitivity and grip on rock surfaces.
- Sport Climbing Shoes: Built for sport climbing, these shoes often strike a balance between performance and comfort, featuring a moderate downturn. They provide a good amount of rubber coverage, allowing for optimal grip on various rock types and ensuring versatility during climbs.
- Multi-Pitch Climbing Shoes: These shoes are designed for long routes that involve multiple pitches, prioritizing comfort over performance. They usually have a more relaxed fit and additional support to keep the foot comfortable over extended periods of wear.
- Approach Shoes: While not strictly climbing shoes, approach shoes are designed for the hike to the climbing route. They feature a robust sole for traction on rocky terrain and a comfortable fit, enabling climbers to navigate both the approach and descent with ease.
What Features Indicate a High-Quality Climbing Shoe?
When evaluating climbing shoes, certain features signify their quality and suitability for various climbing styles.
- Fit: A high-quality climbing shoe should fit snugly without causing pain. The right fit helps maximize control and sensitivity on footholds while preventing foot slippage inside the shoe.
- Material: Quality climbing shoes are often made from either leather or synthetic materials. Leather tends to stretch and mold to the foot over time, providing a personalized fit, while synthetic materials often retain their shape and offer moisture-wicking properties.
- Sole Thickness: The thickness of the sole impacts performance; thinner soles provide better sensitivity and grip, while thicker soles offer more durability and support for all-day wear. A high-quality shoe typically balances these aspects to cater to specific climbing needs.
- Closure System: There are generally three types of closures: Velcro, lace-up, and slip-on. Each has its advantages; Velcro provides convenience, lace-ups allow for a customizable fit, and slip-ons offer a minimalist feel, making it essential to choose based on climbing style and personal preference.
- Asymmetry: The degree of asymmetry in a shoe affects its performance. Shoes that are more asymmetrical direct power to the big toe for improved precision on small footholds, making them ideal for technical climbing, while moderate asymmetry suits all-around performance.
- Stiffness: The stiffness of a climbing shoe can affect comfort and performance. Stiffer shoes provide better support for edging, which is crucial for sport climbing, while softer shoes enhance sensitivity and flexibility, making them preferable for bouldering or crack climbing.
- Rubber Quality: The type and quality of rubber used on the sole are critical for grip and durability. High-quality rubber compounds, like Vibram or Stealth, offer superior traction and resilience, allowing climbers to tackle a variety of surfaces effectively.
How Does the Quality of Rubber Affect Grip and Durability?
The quality of rubber significantly impacts both grip and durability in climbing shoes, influencing performance and longevity.
- Rubber Composition: The type of rubber used in climbing shoes determines the friction and grip on various surfaces. Higher quality rubber, often softer and stickier, enhances traction on rock and holds, allowing for more precise foot placements.
- Rubber Thickness: The thickness of the rubber affects durability and sensitivity. Thicker rubber tends to be more durable, making it suitable for abrasive surfaces, while thinner rubber offers better sensitivity for feeling footholds, which is crucial for technical climbing.
- Rubber Hardness: Measured on a durometer scale, the hardness of rubber influences its performance characteristics. Softer rubber provides superior grip but may wear out faster, while harder rubber lasts longer but may lack the same level of friction on smooth surfaces.
- Vulcanization Process: The method used to cure rubber can affect its elasticity and overall performance. Proper vulcanization creates stronger bonds within the rubber, enhancing both grip and durability, while poorly processed rubber may result in quicker degradation.
- Surface Texture: The texture of the rubber can influence grip levels. A tacky, textured surface provides additional friction against climbing holds, while a smoother surface may be better suited for specific types of climbing where less friction is needed.
Why Is the Downturn Shape of a Shoe Important for Performance?
The downturn shape of a climbing shoe is crucial for performance because it enhances precision and power transfer when climbing steep or overhung routes.
Research by climbing experts such as Dr. Thomas Hoch and Dr. Rainer H. M. Scherer indicates that a shoe’s downturn design allows for optimal foot positioning, which improves grip on small footholds and enhances the climber’s ability to push against the rock effectively (Hoch & Scherer, 2017). This enables climbers to maintain better balance and control, especially when executing dynamic movements.
The underlying mechanism involves biomechanics: a downturn shoe aligns the foot in a way that maximizes the engagement of the toe muscles and the plantar fascia, creating a more effective force vector when pushing off. This design not only stabilizes the foot but also allows for a more aggressive stance, which is beneficial for climbing techniques that require precision and strength on vertical surfaces. Additionally, the curvature of the shoe helps concentrate weight on the toe area, leading to increased friction and better connection with the climbing surface.
What Are the Top Climbing Shoe Brands to Look For?
The top climbing shoe brands known for their quality and performance include:
- La Sportiva: Renowned for innovative designs, La Sportiva offers a wide range of climbing shoes that cater to various climbing styles. Their shoes are known for excellent fit and durability, often made with high-quality leather and rubber that enhance performance on both sport and trad climbs.
- Scarpa: Scarpa combines Italian craftsmanship with advanced technology, providing climbing shoes that offer comfort and precision. Their range includes models suitable for beginners to expert climbers, emphasizing support and sensitivity for a better climbing experience.
- Five Ten: A favorite among bouldering enthusiasts, Five Ten is famous for its sticky rubber soles that provide unmatched grip on rock surfaces. Their climbing shoes are designed for both performance and comfort, making them ideal for long sessions on challenging routes.
- Black Diamond: Black Diamond is well-known for its climbing gear and shoes that emphasize performance and versatility. Their climbing shoes often feature innovative closure systems and adjustable fits, catering to a broad range of climbing activities from bouldering to sport climbing.
- Tenaya: Tenaya is recognized for its high-performance climbing shoes that focus on comfort without sacrificing sensitivity. Their designs often include a unique fit that accommodates different foot shapes, enhancing performance across various climbing disciplines.
- Chalk Bag: While primarily known for chalk bags, Chalk Bag also offers climbing shoes that emphasize comfort and ease of use. This brand is ideal for beginners looking for budget-friendly options that still provide decent performance on indoor climbing walls.
What Recommendations Can Be Made for Specific Climbing Disciplines?
The best selection of climbing shoes can vary greatly depending on the specific climbing discipline being pursued.
- Sport Climbing: For sport climbing, look for shoes that provide a snug fit and a stiff sole for better power transfer on steep routes.
- Bouldering: Bouldering shoes should be aggressive with a downward camber to enhance precision on small footholds and provide excellent grip.
- Trad Climbing: When trad climbing, opt for shoes that offer comfort and support for long routes, often featuring a more relaxed fit and a more durable rubber for protection.
- Multi-Pitch Climbing: Shoes for multi-pitch climbing should balance comfort and performance, allowing for long wear without sacrificing grip, and often have a slightly stiffer sole to handle varied terrain.
- Indoor Climbing: For indoor climbing, choose shoes that are versatile and provide good friction on plastic holds, often with a softer rubber that allows for greater sensitivity.
In sport climbing, shoes with a tight fit help maximize precision, while a stiff sole aids in transferring power to the footholds, making them ideal for steep, overhung routes.
Bouldering shoes are designed with a more aggressive shape, which allows climbers to edge effectively and maintain control on challenging problems, often featuring a rubber rand that wraps around the shoe for added grip.
Trad climbing shoes focus on comfort for long ascents and typically have a flatter profile, allowing climbers to wear them for extended periods without discomfort, as well as durable rubber to withstand rugged conditions.
For multi-pitch climbing, shoes need to strike a balance between comfort for long stretches and performance for technical moves, often incorporating features that enhance durability and support while remaining lightweight.
Indoor climbing shoes are crafted to provide excellent grip on synthetic holds and are usually softer than outdoor shoes, allowing for more sensitivity and adaptability during varied movements within a controlled environment.
Which Climbing Shoes Are Best for Bouldering?
The best selection of climbing shoes for bouldering includes options that provide excellent grip, support, and precision.
- La Sportiva Theory: This shoe is designed for aggressive performance, making it ideal for steep bouldering problems.
- Scarpa Drago: Known for its sensitivity and flexibility, the Drago allows climbers to feel the rock beneath their feet for better foot placements.
- Five Ten Anasazi Pro: A versatile shoe with a powerful rubber grip, the Anasazi Pro excels in both bouldering and sport climbing.
- Black Diamond Momentum: This model provides comfort and support, making it suitable for longer sessions on the bouldering wall.
- Tenaya Oasi: The Oasi combines comfort with precision fit, making it a great choice for technical bouldering routes.
The La Sportiva Theory features an aggressive downturn that enhances power transfer to the toe, crucial for dynamic moves. Its lightweight design and sticky rubber ensure optimal performance on overhung walls, allowing climbers to push their limits effectively.
The Scarpa Drago is favored for its soft construction, which offers exceptional sensitivity and allows climbers to engage with small footholds. The shoe also has a rubber rand that enhances grip and stability, making it a preferred choice for those tackling challenging bouldering routes.
The Five Ten Anasazi Pro is celebrated for its balance between comfort and performance, featuring a flat fit that suits a variety of foot shapes. The shoe’s Stealth rubber provides outstanding friction, making it reliable on both indoor and outdoor bouldering problems.
The Black Diamond Momentum is designed for comfort with a soft, breathable upper and a neutral fit. This makes it an excellent option for beginners or those looking for a shoe that can handle extended climbing sessions without sacrificing support.
The Tenaya Oasi stands out for its combination of comfort and precision, thanks to its unique closure system that allows for a customizable fit. Its rigid midsole provides stability for technical footwork while still maintaining enough sensitivity for delicate placements on boulders.
What Should You Choose for Sport Climbing?
When selecting the best climbing shoes for sport climbing, various factors come into play, including fit, stiffness, and materials.
- Fit: The fit is arguably the most crucial factor in choosing climbing shoes. A proper fit ensures maximum sensitivity and control, allowing climbers to feel the rock and make precise movements. Shoes should be snug but not painfully tight, with minimal dead space, particularly around the toes.
- Stiffness: The stiffness of the shoe can greatly affect performance on different types of climbs. Stiffer shoes provide more support for edging on small footholds, while softer shoes offer better sensitivity and flexibility for smearing on vertical or overhanging terrain. Your choice should depend on the type of climbing you plan to do.
- Closure System: Climbing shoes come with different closure systems, including velcro and laces. Velcro closures are convenient for quick on-and-off, making them popular for sport climbing, while lace-ups provide a more customizable fit and can be adjusted for different foot shapes. Consider your climbing style and how often you need to take off or adjust your shoes.
- Material: The material of the shoe affects both performance and durability. Leather shoes tend to stretch and mold to the foot over time, providing a comfortable fit, while synthetic shoes generally hold their shape better and dry faster. Depending on your preferences and climbing conditions, choosing the right material can enhance your overall experience.
- Sole Thickness: The thickness of the shoe’s sole influences sensitivity and durability. Thinner soles offer greater sensitivity, allowing climbers to feel the rock better, while thicker soles provide added protection and durability, especially for outdoor climbing. Your choice should balance sensitivity and protection based on your climbing environment.
- Downturn: The downturn of a climbing shoe refers to how much the shoe slopes downwards towards the toe. Aggressive downturns are ideal for sport climbing as they help in maximizing power on steep climbs and providing better precision on small footholds, while moderate to neutral downturns are more comfortable for all-day wear and multi-pitch climbs.