How Tight Climbing Shoes Reddit. ” Realistically for a beginner, you are fine. How a sho

” Realistically for a beginner, you are fine. How a shoe fits varies from climber to climber. I know they are supposed to stretch out over time but right now it's at the point were I don't really want to climb 😬. But how tight should climbing shoes be for optimal performance?Let’s dive in and explore this question further. Climbings shoes should be tight, but they're useless if they are too tight to the point where you can't climb. Whether it's crack climbing or bouldering, Rock Climbing shoes in general are well-known for being astonishingly small. Apr 19, 2021 · Stop hurting your feet trying to break in tight climbing shoes. Love your shoes. So how tight should climbing shoes be? Let's find out. Feb 8, 2019 · The best climbing shoes are the ones that actually fit your feet and the style of climbing that you want to be doing—whether bouldering, sport or trad. After almost 2 years of climbing I've finally gotten rid of my first climbing shoes and bought a new pair of la sportiva theories. Climbing shoes are tight by nature so anything wrong with the fit is going to stand out much more than street shoes that aren't typically such a tight Mar 17, 2023 · How tight should your climbing shoes be on your feet and should they hurt while you are climbing? There are the types of questions you might be struggling with when in the market for your first or second pair of climbing shoes. My rule of thumb is that a shoe should be so tight that it is uncomfortable to walk in, but it should be fairly comfortable to stand/sit in. It can provide better footwork, increased precision, and overall more comfort on the wall. Any unoccupied space in your shoes reduces grip and sensitivity. Numbness in my big toes lasted a month or so on and off but eventually went away. Climbers, how do you care for your feet / toenails? About 6-8 months ago I sized my climbing shoes down (wearing Evolv Elektras) which seriously improved my foot work (first pair of shoes were 5. The heel Mar 1, 2024 · You could be holding back your climbing because you've bought into the myth that tight shoes equal higher performance. Reply reply More replies wischmopp • We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Oct 6, 2025 · Climbing shoes are designed to be tight to create a solid, responsive connection between your foot and the rock. And while this may have been important in the 80s, today aggressively downsizing your climbing shoes simply isn't needed. For bouldering shoe, this is how I would go about sizing my shoe. We both have ugly bumps on top of our toes from years of climbing in tight shoes, but that means our feet are accustomed to wearing tight shoes. If the shoe fits comfortable, it's too big. As for taking your shoes off, I do that any time I'm climbing, regardless of how tight they are. When I don't wear socks, I always, at some point, get sweaty feet and feel some slippage (even in my very uncomfortably tight backups). If you aren’t used to tight, performance footwear, get ready to build some calluses on those soft looking feet ;) This will not damage the shoes, but it will probably dye your feet whatever color the shoes are for a couple days. In my newest running shoes, my toes are now similarly curled up as in an aggressive climbing shoe. Some rock climbers will even go as far Jan 22, 2021 · La Sportiva's Theory is one of the brand's three Olympic-level climbing shoes. Unlike regular shoes, which have space for your foot to move, climbing shoes act like a second skin. I bought the cheapest ones just in case I wasn’t going to stick it. TLDR: I am looking for intermediate but comfortable climbing shoes for indoor climbing with slight/medium downturn and low/medium pre-tensioning. Dec 31, 2025 · The most common question beginners have is "how tight should rock climbing shoes be?" When you're up on the wall the last thing May 16, 2023 · If you are looking for a shoe that can do everything well and become a long-standing member of your collection, the Scarpa Vapor V will make an awesome addition. My climbing shoes were painfully (but not unbearably) tight for about 2-3 weeks. If you have wide feet I don’t think it’s right one for you, as they are skinny (Ps: I’ve been only climbing for a year and It’s my second pair of climbing shoes, so that’s the base of my comparison and some photos) Contribute to annontopicmodel/unsupervised_topic_modeling development by creating an account on GitHub. Reply r/climbing • r But even the cheapest climbing shoes are miles better than rentals. With climbing shoes, all parts of the inside of the shoe should fit closely around the foot. Try this quick, easy, and painless at-home hack instead. You aren’t meant to walk anywhere in climbing shoes. Nov 11, 2023 · We all know the old myth that you need to stupidly downsizing climbing shoes for performance. Young climbers’ feet grow rapidly, and uncomfortable shoes discourage continued participation in the sport. How should climbing shoes feel It may be tempting to go a size up to avoid overly tight climbing shoes. Sep 30, 2024 · Key Takeaways: Comfort is key: Climbing shoes should fit snugly, but comfort should be prioritized. Wrong: immediately my shoes were fitting as if they were at least half size smaller than they felt indoors. This is why people get their more valuable clothes tailored for a perfect fit. Back in the 90s when really tight shoes were common, it was normal in Germany to put the shoes on for a few minutes and only start climbing in them when it was possible to wear them in the evening for a 15 minutes news show. Like your belayer, your shoes are your bond to the rock and thus life itself. Jun 5, 2025 · One of your most critical climbing decisions is determining how tight your rock climbing shoes should be. Tight climbing shoes are often tight in the wrong places. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. So basically its really important to me to make sure my shoes fit perfectly, and that Ive broken them in proplerly before deciding they are too tight, it makes a huge difference when Im climbing and Im not sure Id be comfortable buying shoes online without trying on the pair first. Best way to stretch your shoes is to climb in them. Give it time and give your feet plenty of rest during your sessions. Nov 21, 2023 · Rock climbing shoes should be tight but not too tight so that they cause pain or restrict movement. Oct 6, 2025 · Learn how to find the perfect balance between performance and comfort, plus factors that affect fit for different climbing styles. 10 Sirens and stretched out big time) So I bought a new pair of climbing shoes (unparallel up mocc) and they are extreeemely tight compared to my old lace up sportivas. Discover practical solutions to adapt your shoes and recommendations for new ones like Moved Permanently The document has moved here. Aug 6, 2019 · The Scarpa Vapor V is a workhorse. This snugness ensures that when you press your foot onto a hold, there is no wasted energy or movement inside the shoe. The fit of rock climbing shoes varies depending on factors such as your climbing style, foot sensitivity, and swelling. Learn how to choose and fit rock climbing shoes, including information on types of rock climbing shoes, features and fit tips. The shoes themselves are about my shoe size. Do: Get a resole before you need it. First thing first, let’s establish how climbing shoes are supposed to fit. Learn what shoes can be stretched, how to stretch them, and more in this post. If it's uncomfortable, it's the right size. This gives too much wiggle room and the shoe can pull down on my nails. Just my opinion that tighter shoes aren’t always better. 1. But oversized shoes have their downsides too. I recommend taking a hot/warm shower with them on, so that they conform to the shape of your feet as they get wet. Find out how to fit climbing shoes in our step-by-step guide. If it's painful, its too tight. Any time people talk about street shoes to climbing shoes they're comparing apples to oranges. Mar 29, 2024 · In a world where some climbers can send V11's barefoot, the question "How to fit climbing shoes and how tight should they be?" still lingers. There is very little shoe there, it feels more like a tight, rubber glove. Did you know that r/climbing also has a wiki on climbing shoes? I personally wouldn't size no-edge shoes that tight; i need room for my foot to move to grab onto holds. The only time that I feel like my toenails are being tugged on are when the shoes are slightly loose. It's the world's softest and most aggressive slab shoe Mar 17, 2023 · Running into problems sizing your bouldering shoes? This Sizing & Fit Guide helps you find the perfect fit for your climbing shoes. Learn good footwork. Too loose and you get no support. The materials used in climbing shoes have a big impact on how comfortable they are. Spend $60 on climbing shoes and be surprised when they fall apart after 2 months of gym sessions. Now I try and take my shoes off whenever I'm not actually climbing. Everytime I get new shoes I worry a bit, then realise I can actually blame the shoe LOL. 4M subscribers in the climbing community. Beginner shoes are typically flatter and more comfortable while experienced climbers will opt for a tighter shoe that can help with performance, but can’t be worn for more than one climb. So I bought a new pair of climbing shoes (unparallel up mocc) and they are extreeemely tight compared to my old lace up sportivas. Tight shoes will let you step more confidently on smaller footholds. Don't know how much a difference each method makes compared to the other, but each will definitely work with leather shoes like vapor vs. I love wearing socks when climbing unless I'm wearing my backup pair of shoes which are too tight for socks. A subreddit dedicated to discussing and reviewing climbing shoes. May 13, 2020 · When you buy street shoes the aim is to not have your toes hit the front and to have space around the foot. Is this a normal experience? I love wearing socks when climbing unless I'm wearing my backup pair of shoes which are too tight for socks. I have flat and rather narrow low-volume feet. 39 to 40 EU) and not sacrifice any ability to heel hook, toe hook, smear, edge, smedge, whatever you want Mar 30, 2023 · Ultimate guide to climbing shoe fit. Jun 17, 2025 · Imagine your climbing shoes as the perfect pair of gloves that not only protect your hands but also enhance their dexterity and strength. By ensuring your feet are tightly locked into place, these shoes can help you to hang on for longer or execute moves with greater precision. Gorilla stomp. Any input appreciated! EDIT: On the flip side, are there anyone with no big problems at all? How tight should climbing shoes be? We see it much too often: climbers putting on their climbing shoes with pain written all over their faces, only to We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Aug 26, 2021 · Break your tight climbing shoes in the gradual, au natural way to maximize their on-the-rock performance and lifespan. I might sacrifice a little performance perhaps, but at the same time when I've had more aggressive shoes I can't really focus on beta when my right big toe is screaming at me. I fit my La Sportiva climbing shoes similarly tight — 3. Therefore allowing your foot to slide easier into very tight shoes. 5 or 4 Euro sizes smaller than my street shoe size. I really can’t feel/catch small jibs and footholds so after 8 months of climbing, I decided I would downsize and buy a nice tight pair of shoes. How tight should climbing shoes be? We see it much too often: climbers putting on their climbing shoes with pain written all over their faces, only to Mar 29, 2024 · In a world where some climbers can send V11's barefoot, the question "How to fit climbing shoes and how tight should they be?" still lingers. Mar 30, 2023 · Ultimate guide to climbing shoe fit. New shoe rubber is a bit slick and needs to be worn in. It looks like you are interested in climbing shoesplease check out this extremely thorough post about purchasing climbing shoes by u/jzunn here. 77 votes, 33 comments. We’re on a journey to advance and democratize artificial intelligence through open source and open science. These climbing shoes used for entry-level rock climbing offer a budget-friendly way to discover the sport and develop your skills without breaking the bank. Oct 6, 2023 · Climbing is a thrilling sport that requires not only physical strength but also the right gear. A well-fitting climbing shoe can make a significant difference in your climbing experience. It helps with edging and smearing on small footholds. Mar 1, 2024 · The culture of tight shoes took hold in the community, persuading generation upon generation to perpetuate this masochistic ritual of binding one’s feet in painfully tight shackles of rubber and leather, pushing through the discomfort, and later raving about how much “fun” climbing is. Long days out without taking my shoes off (tc pros, not all that tight either). I've been climbing for a year and a half now and I was wondering if anyone here experienced any lingering negative effects from wearing climbing shoes. Because leather, particularly suede, extends more when hot, it is more comfortable than synthetic textiles in general. And yes we are scared of falling. The plastic bag trick refers to using a piece of plastic bag to reduce friction between your foot and the climbing shoe. Rock climbing shoes look like a rubbery combination of plimsolls and Maybe Google “beginner tips and expectations for rock climbing shoes. Aug 27, 2021 · There’s a common myth among rock climbers that your climbing shoes should be so tight as to be painful, which is why most of us climbers have a too-small pair of climbing shoes hidden, barely-used, at the back of the wardrobe. For bouldering and sport I need tighter shoes because of the smaller holds and more technical moves. Precision is important: A tighter fit can provide better precision and support while climbing. Take your shoes off every few minutes. Wear your performance shoes in the gym, or while working moves. People don't even size their street shoes the same way, making them a less than ideal starting place. I'm a 10/10. Dec 27, 2024 · Climbing shoes should fit snugly to boost performance and safety. When you put on your climbing shoes are your toes all straight or slightly curled? I'm going to be asking my more experienced climbing friends soon, but I'm looking for some help a little quicker. You're looking for a fit that is snug but not uncomfortable. May 30, 2020 · This is your answer to the best ways for breaking in your climbing shoes. Most people can go up a full size (e. These shoes are specifically designed to provide a good grip and support on the rock surface. g. However, there’s a fine balance between “just right” and “too tight”. Very experienced climbers disagree strongly on how tight is tight and what "comfortable" actually means. The proper fit will allow for the best climbing performance and comfort. Importance of Proper Fit Before delving into the specifics of how tight climbing shoes should be, it`s important to understand why a proper fit is crucial. Stiffness and toe shape make a big difference. The point is most climbers are buying shoes too tight and get no real gains out of them. Climbing shoes should fit like a second skin, with no dead space or hotspots within the shoe. Dec 31, 2025 · How tight should kids’ climbing shoes be? Kids’ climbing shoes should fit similarly to their regular shoes with just slight snugness to prevent sliding inside the shoe. My normal size is 42 EU and since La Sportiva recommends downsizing their shoes 1-2 sizes, i got them in 41 EU. It takes a few sessions to get it back. If you can, find a store near you (climbing gyms will often sell shoes, if you're in America there's probably an rei near you) and try on different brands, since each will fit differently (different toeboxes, different heels, etc). 5 street shoe, so I generally go with a 10 climbing shoe and I do well. The home of Climbing on reddit. I also did not follow the rule of taking the off between climbs and formed toe blisters but even after that they became broken-in and are now tight but comfortable to climb in. Size these shoes tight, and they edge well enough to excel at bouldering and sport climbing. Wearing aggressively tight shoes can cause pain and weird foot issues over time. Feb 26, 2024 · Are your climbing shoes causing pain or discomfort? Discover how to achieve a perfect fit by learning the best practices for sizing climbing shoes. There's a difference between painful and uncomfortable. Jan 29, 2024 · How do I break in my new climbing shoes? We offer a range of simple tips, tricks and techniques for softening up your fresh pair of performance climbing shoes. None of my climbing friends have lost a toenail. edit: it is always good to have a second (more comfortable) pair of shoes to climb warm ups, gym climbs, and long easy routes in. Moved Permanently The document has moved here. Shoes that are too tight can cause discomfort and hinder performance. Climbing shoes are arguably the most crucial piece of gear for any climber, providing the essential grip, support, and precision needed to May 11, 2021 · How should your climbing shoes fit? Is it normal for your toes to hurt? How to find the shoe for you and your climbing style! Learn how to choose and fit rock climbing shoes, including information on types of rock climbing shoes, features and fit tips. Your toes should feel slight compression in the toe box, avoiding excessive pain. The home of all climbing tips. Climbing shoes are arguably the most crucial piece of gear for any climber, providing the essential grip, support, and precision needed to May 11, 2021 · How should your climbing shoes fit? Is it normal for your toes to hurt? How to find the shoe for you and your climbing style! After almost 2 years of climbing I've finally gotten rid of my first climbing shoes and bought a new pair of la sportiva theories. If you’re doing multi day climbing trips or climbing lots in the sun, your feet will swell over time and that makes the shoes more uncomfortable. I was at the climbing gym last night and climbed for about an hour and a half, having to take frequent breaks not because I was too tired but because my feet hurt. Bare feet or sandals are always more comfortable, and it prevents me from breaking in my shoes excessively and making them sloppy from just walking around. The answer isn’t that simple because if you made it simple, you might end up with the wrong fit. However, yesterday browing the r/climbing subreddit I read from someone that they were downsizing their shoes even more for outdoor climbing as the feet was sweating and could slip off when heel hoking. There's plenty of people who have to get a M when buying a certain style/brand but have to get a L in another store. Too tight and it hurts and you have no circulation. Over in the running groups nobody has first hand experiences with that tight shoes longterm, so I am asking here. The tightness can also be a preference thing. . Overly tight can cause the same issue, but many people do not consider the loose issue as well. Enhance your climbing performance and strengthen your technique with these rock training shoes, perfect for honing your skills whether you're climbing indoors or tackling outdoor routes. I’ve been climbing for about 8 months in la sportiva finales but when I bought them I didn’t know anything about climbing shoes so they’re actually a size bigger than my street shoes. 8s. The same thing happened to me last year after a trip to Yosemite. Any tips to stretching them out quicker? I’ve been climbing for about 8 months in la sportiva finales but when I bought them I didn’t know anything about climbing shoes so they’re actually a size bigger than my street shoes. Spend $160 on aggressive climbing shoes and then wear them to the gym to climb vert 5. Any tips to stretching them out quicker? The shoes are almost as tight as new when I put them on-- but the rubber stretches up to the break in size once on. Size them bigger, and it's Aug 20, 2022 · Climbing shoes can cause or aggravate heel pain. The first day I went climbing, I fell in love with it, got my gym pass and ran to REI to get my own shoes. Mostly miss. Recently I have been feeling a dull pain in my foot after climbing sessions. Learn to size, recognize if shoes are too big or too small, understand break-in, and optimize for comfort & performance. Even synthetic shoes stretch a bit, especially where you have knuckles pushing against the uppers. For trad climbing I have a looser shoe because of jamming small cracks and the fact you have to wear them all day. One of the most important pieces of equipment for rock climbing is climbing shoes. Dec 31, 2025 · Different shoes fit each person’s foot differently and shoes will have certain advantages depending on the climbing style you want to pursue.

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