Crush Your Ascents: Top 10 Best Intermediate Climbing Shoes for Optimal Grip and Comfort
Find the perfect balance of performance and comfort with our top picks for the best intermediate climbing shoes. Conquer any climb with confidence!
As an intermediate climber, you know that having the right gear is essential to elevate your climbing abilities. One of the most crucial pieces of equipment you need is a reliable pair of climbing shoes. The right shoes can make all the difference, helping you grip onto rocks and edges with ease while ensuring maximum comfort and support throughout your climb. However, with so many options on the market, finding the perfect pair of intermediate climbing shoes can be overwhelming. So, we've done the research for you and compiled a list of the best intermediate climbing shoes available today.
First on our list are the Five Ten Anasazi Pro Climbing Shoes, which are a top choice among experienced climbers. These shoes have a moderate downturn, allowing for precise toe placement on overhanging routes and boulder problems. They also feature stealth rubber soles, providing optimal friction and durability, and a comfortable synthetic upper that molds to your foot's shape over time.
If you're looking for something with a bit more sensitivity, the Scarpa Instinct VS Climbing Shoes might be more your speed. These shoes have a slightly more aggressive downturn, making them ideal for technical routes with smaller holds. Their Vibram XS Edge soles offer excellent edging capabilities, while the Lorica upper material provides a snug, yet flexible fit.
For those who prefer a flatter shoe, the La Sportiva TarantuLace Climbing Shoes are a great option. These shoes have a low asymmetry and a moderate stiffness, making them comfortable for all-day wear. Their FriXion rubber soles provide excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, while the unlined leather upper molds to your foot's shape for a personalized fit.
If you're looking for a shoe that can handle both indoor and outdoor climbing, the Evolv Shaman Climbing Shoes are a versatile choice. These shoes have a moderate downturn and a rubber toe patch, making them ideal for toe-hooking on steep routes. They also feature a synthetic upper that resists stretching over time, ensuring a consistent fit.
For climbers with wider feet, the Butora Acro Climbing Shoes are an excellent choice. These shoes have a slightly asymmetrical shape and a roomier toe box, providing comfort and support for those with wider feet. Their Neo Fuse rubber soles offer excellent friction and durability, while the synthetic upper material molds to your foot's shape over time.
If you're looking for a shoe that can handle long multi-pitch climbs, the Tenaya Iati Climbing Shoes are a great option. These shoes have a moderate downturn and a comfortable microfiber upper that molds to your foot's shape over time. Their Vibram XS Grip 2 soles provide excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, while the heel cup offers added support for all-day wear.
For climbers who prefer a slipper-style shoe, the Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoes are an excellent choice. These shoes have a flat profile and a knit upper material that provides a snug, sock-like fit. Their NeoFriction rubber soles offer excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, while the dual-entry system ensures easy on and off.
If you're looking for a shoe that can handle both crack climbing and face climbing, the Scarpa Maestro Climbing Shoes are a versatile option. These shoes have a flat profile and a stiff midsole, making them ideal for edging on technical routes. Their Vibram XS Edge soles offer excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, while the suede and microfiber upper material provides a comfortable and personalized fit.
For those who prefer a more eco-friendly option, the Tenaya Mundaka Climbing Shoes are made from recycled materials and feature a recycled rubber sole. These shoes have a moderate downturn and a comfortable microfiber upper that molds to your foot's shape over time. Their Vibram XS Grip 2 soles provide excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, while the heel cup offers added support for all-day wear.
Lastly, the La Sportiva Miura Climbing Shoes are a classic choice that has stood the test of time. These shoes have an aggressive downturn and a comfortable leather upper that molds to your foot's shape over time. Their Vibram XS Edge soles offer excellent grip on a variety of surfaces, while the slingshot randing system provides added power for precise edging.
No matter what type of climbing you prefer, there is a shoe on this list that will suit your needs. Remember to prioritize comfort, support, and grip when selecting a pair of intermediate climbing shoes, and you'll be well on your way to elevating your climbing abilities.
Introduction
Climbing shoes are an essential part of a climber's gear. They provide the necessary grip and support to help you scale up rocks and mountains. However, choosing the right pair of shoes can be daunting, especially for intermediate climbers who are still trying to figure out their climbing style. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best intermediate climbing shoes that are currently available in the market.
The Criteria
Before we dive into our list of the best intermediate climbing shoes, let's take a look at the criteria we used to evaluate them. The shoes on our list had to meet the following requirements:
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Provide good grip and support
- Be versatile
- Offer good value for money
La Sportiva TarantuLace
The La Sportiva TarantuLace is an excellent choice for intermediate climbers who are looking for a comfortable and versatile shoe. The TarantuLace features a quick-pull lacing system that allows for easy adjustment and a snug fit. The shoe also has a sticky FriXion RS rubber sole that provides excellent grip and traction. Additionally, the TarantuLace has a padded tongue and collar that offers a comfortable fit even during long climbs.
Evolv Defy
The Evolv Defy is a popular choice among intermediate climbers because of its versatility and comfort. The Defy features a flat profile that makes it suitable for both vertical and slab climbing. The shoe also has a perforated synthetic upper that allows for breathability. The Defy's Trax XT-5 rubber sole provides excellent grip and durability, making it a reliable choice for intermediate climbers.
Scarpa Origin
The Scarpa Origin is an excellent choice for intermediate climbers who are looking for a shoe that offers both comfort and performance. The Origin features a suede upper that molds to the shape of your foot, providing a comfortable fit. The shoe also has a Vibram XS Edge rubber sole that provides excellent grip and support. Additionally, the Origin has a flat last that makes it suitable for all types of climbing.
Black Diamond Momentum
The Black Diamond Momentum is a great all-around shoe that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor climbing. The Momentum features a knit upper that provides breathability and comfort. The shoe also has a molded rubber sole that provides good grip and durability. Additionally, the Momentum has a padded tongue and collar that offer a comfortable fit.
Mad Rock Drifter
The Mad Rock Drifter is a budget-friendly option for intermediate climbers who are looking for a reliable and comfortable shoe. The Drifter features a split-grain leather upper that provides durability and comfort. The shoe also has a Science Friction 3.0 rubber sole that provides excellent grip and support. Additionally, the Drifter has two Velcro straps that allow for easy adjustments and a snug fit.
La Sportiva Katana Lace
The La Sportiva Katana Lace is a high-performance shoe that is suitable for intermediate climbers who are looking for a shoe that can handle tough climbs. The Katana Lace features a Vibram XS Edge rubber sole that provides excellent grip and support. The shoe also has a lace-up closure system that allows for a customizable fit. Additionally, the Katana Lace has a downturned shape that makes it suitable for steep and overhanging climbs.
Butora Acro
The Butora Acro is a high-performance shoe that is suitable for intermediate climbers who are looking for a shoe that can handle aggressive climbs. The Acro features a leather and synthetic upper that provides durability and comfort. The shoe also has a Butora F5 rubber sole that provides excellent grip and support. Additionally, the Acro has a downturned shape that makes it suitable for steep and overhanging climbs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pair of climbing shoes can make a big difference in your climbing experience. We hope that our list of the best intermediate climbing shoes has helped you narrow down your choices. Remember to consider your climbing style, foot shape, and budget when choosing your next pair of climbing shoes.
Understanding Intermediate Climbing ShoesAs a climber, having the right gear can make all the difference in your performance on the wall. One of the most important pieces of gear for climbers are their shoes. Climbing shoes come in a variety of styles and designs, each with their own unique features and benefits. For intermediate climbers, choosing the right shoe can be especially challenging. While beginner climbers might choose a more general-purpose shoe that can be used for a range of activities, intermediate climbers need a shoe that is more specialized and tailored to their needs.Intermediate climbing shoes are designed to provide a balance between comfort and performance. They are typically more aggressive than beginner shoes, with a stiffer sole and a tighter fit, but not as extreme as the shoes worn by advanced climbers. These shoes are suitable for climbers who have developed some technique and skill, and are looking to improve their abilities on more challenging routes.Types of Intermediate Climbing ShoesThere are several different types of intermediate climbing shoes, each with their own unique characteristics and benefits. Some of the most common types include:1. Neutral Shoes: Neutral shoes are designed for climbers who want a comfortable shoe that can perform well on a variety of surfaces. They typically have a flat sole and a moderate downturn, which makes them suitable for both smearing and edging.2. Moderate Shoes: Moderate shoes are designed for climbers who want a shoe with a bit more performance. They typically have a slightly more aggressive downturn than neutral shoes, which provides better edging power, but still offer a good balance of comfort and performance.3. Aggressive Shoes: Aggressive shoes are designed for climbers who want maximum performance on steep and overhanging terrain. They typically have an extremely downturned toe and a stiff sole, which provides excellent edging power and precision, but can be uncomfortable for extended periods of wear.Features to Look for in Intermediate Climbing ShoesWhen shopping for intermediate climbing shoes, there are several features to consider. Some of the most important include:1. Fit: The fit of your climbing shoes is critical to your overall performance on the wall. Look for a shoe that fits snugly but not too tight, with enough room in the toe box to allow for comfortable movement.2. Sole: The sole of your climbing shoe should be stiff enough to provide support and edging power, but flexible enough to allow for precise footwork.3. Downturn: The downturn of your shoe will determine its performance on steep or overhanging terrain. A more aggressive downturn will provide better edging power, but can be uncomfortable for extended periods of wear.4. Material: Climbing shoes are typically made from leather or synthetic materials. Leather shoes tend to stretch over time, while synthetic shoes tend to maintain their shape better.5. Closure System: Climbing shoes typically come with either laces, velcro, or a slip-on design. Laces provide the most precise fit, while velcro and slip-on designs are quicker to put on and take off.Top Intermediate Climbing Shoes for Men1. La Sportiva TarantuLace: The La Sportiva TarantuLace is a versatile shoe that is suitable for a wide range of climbing styles. It features a comfortable leather upper, a stiff sole for edging power, and a moderate downturn for good all-around performance.2. Scarpa Origin: The Scarpa Origin is another great all-around shoe that is suitable for intermediate climbers. It has a flat sole and a neutral profile, which makes it comfortable for long periods of wear, but still provides good edging power.3. Five Ten Anasazi VCS: The Five Ten Anasazi VCS is a high-performance shoe that is designed for steep and overhanging terrain. It features a highly downturned toe and a stiff sole for excellent edging power, but can be uncomfortable for extended periods of wear.Top Intermediate Climbing Shoes for Women1. La Sportiva Mythos: The La Sportiva Mythos is a classic women's climbing shoe that is suitable for intermediate climbers. It has a comfortable leather upper, a moderate downturn, and a flat sole for good all-around performance.2. Scarpa Helix: The Scarpa Helix is another great shoe for intermediate women climbers. It has a neutral profile and a comfortable fit, but still provides good edging power when needed.3. Evolv Elektra: The Evolv Elektra is a versatile shoe that is suitable for a wide range of climbing styles. It has a flat sole and a moderate downturn, which makes it comfortable for long periods of wear, but still provides good edging power.Best Budget Intermediate Climbing Shoes1. Mad Rock Flash 2.0: The Mad Rock Flash 2.0 is a great budget option for intermediate climbers. It has a comfortable fit and a moderate downturn, but still provides good edging power when needed.2. Black Diamond Momentum: The Black Diamond Momentum is another great budget shoe for intermediate climbers. It has a neutral profile and a comfortable fit, which makes it suitable for all-around climbing.3. Butora Endeavor: The Butora Endeavor is a high-performance shoe that is priced lower than many of its competitors. It has a moderate downturn and a stiff sole for excellent edging power, but still provides good all-around performance.Best Intermediate Climbing Shoes for Indoor Climbing1. La Sportiva Katana Lace: The La Sportiva Katana Lace is a high-performance shoe that is designed for steep and overhanging terrain. It has a highly downturned toe and a stiff sole for excellent edging power, making it ideal for indoor climbing.2. Scarpa Instinct VS: The Scarpa Instinct VS is another great shoe for indoor climbing. It has a highly downturned toe and a stiff sole for excellent edging power, but still provides good all-around performance.3. Five Ten Hiangle: The Five Ten Hiangle is a high-performance shoe that is suitable for steep and overhanging terrain. It has a moderate downturn and a stiff sole for good edging power, but still provides good all-around performance.Best Intermediate Climbing Shoes for Outdoor Climbing1. La Sportiva Miura: The La Sportiva Miura is a high-performance shoe that is designed for steep and overhanging terrain. It has a highly downturned toe and a stiff sole for excellent edging power, making it ideal for outdoor climbing.2. Scarpa Vapor V: The Scarpa Vapor V is another great shoe for outdoor climbing. It has a moderate downturn and a stiff sole for good edging power, but still provides good all-around performance.3. Evolv Shaman: The Evolv Shaman is a high-performance shoe that is suitable for steep and overhanging terrain. It has a highly downturned toe and a stiff sole for excellent edging power, but can be uncomfortable for extended periods of wear.Best All-Around Intermediate Climbing Shoes1. La Sportiva Katana: The La Sportiva Katana is a versatile shoe that is suitable for a wide range of climbing styles. It has a comfortable leather upper, a moderate downturn, and a stiff sole for good all-around performance.2. Scarpa Helix: The Scarpa Helix is another great all-around shoe that is suitable for intermediate climbers. It has a neutral profile and a comfortable fit, but still provides good edging power when needed.3. Five Ten Anasazi Lace: The Five Ten Anasazi Lace is a high-performance shoe that is designed for steep and overhanging terrain. It has a highly downturned toe and a stiff sole for excellent edging power, but can be uncomfortable for extended periods of wear.Top Intermediate Climbing Shoes for Comfort and Durability1. La Sportiva TarantuLace: The La Sportiva TarantuLace is a comfortable and durable shoe that is suitable for intermediate climbers. It has a leather upper and a stiff sole for good edging power, but still provides a comfortable fit.2. Scarpa Origin: The Scarpa Origin is another great shoe for comfort and durability. It has a flat sole and a neutral profile, which makes it comfortable for long periods of wear, but still provides good edging power.3. Five Ten Anasazi VCS: The Five Ten Anasazi VCS is a high-performance shoe that is designed for steep and overhanging terrain. It has a highly downturned toe and a stiff sole for excellent edging power, but can be uncomfortable for extended periods of wear.In conclusion, choosing the right intermediate climbing shoe can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and research, you can find a shoe that will improve your performance on the wall. Look for a shoe that fits well, has a sole and downturn suitable to your needs, and is made from durable materials. With the right shoe, you'll be able to take your climbing skills to the next level.
The Best Intermediate Climbing Shoes
Introduction
As a climber, finding the right pair of shoes can make or break your experience on the rock face. Intermediate climbing shoes are a great option for climbers who have outgrown beginner shoes but are not yet ready for advanced options. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of the best intermediate climbing shoes and provide a table comparison of key features.Top Intermediate Climbing Shoes
1. La Sportiva Katana Lace
2. Scarpa Instinct VS
3. Five Ten Anasazi Lace
Pros and Cons of La Sportiva Katana Lace
Pros:
- Great edging capabilities
- Comfortable fit
- Durable
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not ideal for wide feet
- Takes time to break in
Pros and Cons of Scarpa Instinct VS
Pros:
- Excellent sensitivity
- Aggressive design for steep climbs
- Easy to get on and off
Cons:
- Less durable than other options
- Can be uncomfortable for all-day wear
- Not suitable for beginners
Pros and Cons of Five Ten Anasazi Lace
Pros:
- Sticky rubber for better grip
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Good edging capabilities
Cons:
- Not ideal for steep climbs
- Takes time to break in
- Sizing can be inconsistent
Comparison Table
| Shoe | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| La Sportiva Katana Lace | Great edging capabilities, comfortable fit, durable | Expensive, not ideal for wide feet, takes time to break in |
| Scarpa Instinct VS | Excellent sensitivity, aggressive design for steep climbs, easy to get on and off | Less durable than other options, can be uncomfortable for all-day wear, not suitable for beginners |
| Five Ten Anasazi Lace | Sticky rubber for better grip, comfortable for all-day wear, good edging capabilities | Not ideal for steep climbs, takes time to break in, sizing can be inconsistent |
Conclusion
When it comes to intermediate climbing shoes, there are a variety of options to choose from. The La Sportiva Katana Lace, Scarpa Instinct VS, and Five Ten Anasazi Lace are all great choices depending on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to weigh the pros and cons of each shoe before making a decision. Ultimately, the best climbing shoe is the one that fits your foot comfortably and allows you to climb with confidence and ease.Concluding Thoughts on the Best Intermediate Climbing Shoes
Climbing is an exhilarating sport that requires passion, skill, and proper gear. When it comes to climbing shoes, finding the right pair is crucial for both your safety and performance. As an intermediate climber, you need a shoe that can handle a variety of terrain, provide adequate support, and still allow for flexibility and sensitivity on the rock.
After researching and reviewing various climbing shoes on the market, we have compiled a list of the top intermediate climbing shoes. Each of these shoes offers unique features that cater to different types of climbers and styles of climbing.
The La Sportiva Katana Lace is an excellent choice for intermediate climbers who prioritize comfort and precision. Its lace-up design allows for a customizable fit, while the Vibram sole provides optimal grip on all surfaces. The Scarpa Vapor V is another shoe that offers exceptional comfort, with its soft suede upper and Bi-Tension rand system that enhances power and precision.
For those looking for a more aggressive shoe, the Tenaya Tarifa is a great option. Its down-turned toe and aggressive shape make it ideal for steep and technical routes. On the other hand, the Black Diamond Momentum Lace is a versatile shoe that can handle anything from gym climbing to multi-pitch routes.
It's important to keep in mind that finding the right climbing shoe is a personal process. Every climber has different preferences and needs depending on their foot shape, climbing style, and level of experience. Therefore, we recommend trying on multiple pairs and testing them out on different types of climbs before making a final decision.
When trying on climbing shoes, pay attention to how they fit. They should feel snug but not painfully tight. Your toes should be slightly curled, but not bunched up or cramped. It's also important to consider the type of closure system, as this can affect the fit and adjustability of the shoe.
Another factor to consider when choosing climbing shoes is the type of climbing you will be doing. For intermediate climbers, it's likely that you will be exploring a variety of terrain, from slabs to overhangs. Look for shoes that offer a balance of support and flexibility, as this will allow you to adapt to different types of climbs.
Finally, remember that climbing shoes are an investment. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper pair, investing in a quality shoe can improve your performance and keep you safe on the rock. Take the time to research and try on different options to find the perfect pair for you.
In conclusion, we hope that this article has provided you with valuable information on the best intermediate climbing shoes. Remember to prioritize comfort, fit, and versatility when choosing a shoe, and don't be afraid to invest in a high-quality pair. Happy climbing!
People Also Ask About Best Intermediate Climbing Shoes
What Are Intermediate Climbing Shoes?
Intermediate climbing shoes are designed for climbers who have some experience and are looking to progress their skills. These shoes offer a balance between comfort and performance, making them a great choice for climbers who want to climb longer and more challenging routes.
What Should I Look for in Intermediate Climbing Shoes?
When choosing intermediate climbing shoes, there are several factors to consider:
- Fit: Shoes should fit snugly but not be painful.
- Design: Shoes should be designed for the type of climbing you’ll be doing.
- Comfort: Shoes should be comfortable enough to wear for extended periods of time.
- Performance: Shoes should provide good grip and sensitivity for precise foot placement.
- Durability: Shoes should be durable enough to withstand regular use.
What Are Some of the Best Intermediate Climbing Shoes?
Some of the best intermediate climbing shoes on the market include:
- La Sportiva TarantuLace
- Black Diamond Momentum
- Scarpa Origin
- Evolv Defy
- Five Ten Anasazi VCS
How Do I Choose the Right Size for Intermediate Climbing Shoes?
It’s important to try on climbing shoes before purchasing them to ensure a proper fit. Climbing shoes should fit snugly, but not be painful. Your toes should be curled slightly, but still have some wiggle room. It’s also important to consider the type of climbing you’ll be doing and choose shoes that are designed for that specific activity.