The best intermediate climbing shoes are often a little pricier than the entry-level pairs, best climbing shoes but they offer better performance and protection for climbers who are looking to take their hobby up a notch.
A good pair should be comfortable enough to wear all day - after all, you're going to want them on when you're not at the crag too. You'll also want something that grips well and offers support for the moves you'll be taking on more advanced routes. We've picked out our favorite models from big brands such as La Sportiva and Five Ten so you know your feet will be in good hands.
If you're just starting out, climbing shoes we'd recommend trying one of the best climbing shoes for beginners first before upgrading because these cheaper models might suit your needs perfectly. For example, if you have wider feet or prefer a looser fit around your ankles, aggressive climbing shoes best intermediate climbing shoes then it's worth checking out some of our recommended options with a wider last (the shape). These types of shoes can tend to fit bigger than average so make sure to try a few pairs on if possible before purchase.
How We Choose
We've reviewed the best climbing shoes for intermediate climbers to help you find a great shoe for your needs. Whether you're looking for a comfortable all-day shoe for long routes or an aggressive performance shoe for hard boulder problems, we've got you covered.
SCARPA Men's Veloce Rock Climbing Shoes for Gym Climbing
The SCARPA Veloce is a great shoe for beginners and intermediate climbers looking to get into more technical climbing. The shoe features a rubber sole that provides excellent traction on rock, high performance shoe while also providing comfort during extended sessions in the gym.
The toe box is wide and offers plenty of room for your toes, flat shoe while the heel cup provides additional support and comfort when climbing. The mid-sole is made from EVA foam which helps provide cushioning when walking around or running errands before heading out to the crag. As with all climbing shoes, it's important to match them up with your specific type of climbing so you can get the most out of them.
If you're interested in getting into more advanced climbing techniques such as fingerlocks or dynos then these shoes may not be ideal for you. However, if you're just starting out or want a versatile option that can handle both indoor and outdoor routes then this will definitely do the job well!
La Sportiva Women's Climbing Shoes
I have been on a quest to find the perfect running shoe and I think I may have finally found it. The La Sportiva Trango M11s are not only incredibly comfortable but they also provide great cushioning and stability.
I have run several races in these shoes and they performed perfectly. They're lightweight, flexible, and supportive while still being comfortable from the first mile to the last. The only downside is that they do tend to get scuffed up pretty easily so you'll want to keep an eye on them if you plan on running in them a lot. However, advanced shoes for those who are looking for a high-quality shoe that will last longer than one race then this is definitely the option for you!
Black Diamond Womens Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes
Black Diamond's BD Momentum Climbing Shoes are a great option for beginners and experienced climbers alike. The shoes feature a durable rubber sole which provides excellent grip, while the hemp footbeds provide additional comfort and support.
The midsole is also designed with flexibility in mind, providing good cushioning without being overly soft or firm. The lightweight construction of these shoes makes them ideal for climbing on multi-pitch routes or bouldering at the gym, making them an ideal choice for beginners looking to get started in the sport.
Additionally, the ergonomic design of these shoes allows you to have full range of motion while still providing superior comfort and support. Overall, we highly recommend these shoes to anyone looking for a high-quality product that won't break the bank.
Best Intermediate Climbing Shoes FAQs
There are a lot of different climbing shoes out there, it can be tough to know which one is right for you.
We've put together a list of the most Frequently Asked Questions about climbing shoes, wide toe box so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing your next pair. With this information, you'll be able to confidently choose the best pair of climbing shoes for your needs.
What Is An Intermediate Level Of Climbing?
Intermediate climbers are defined as those who have climbed for at least six months and can climb regularly (three or more times per week). Intermediate climbers should be able to climb a 5.8 on vertical terrain with little trouble, though they may struggle with the handholds and footwork required to excel in the upper 5.9 and 5.10 grades.
Intermediate level climbing shoes need to be stiff enough that the shoe doesn't collapse under pressure, break in period but not so stiff that they're uncomfortable to wear while climbing multiple pitches. For beginners and intermediate-level climbers who haven't yet achieved their climbing goals, it's important to understand what type of shoe will help you improve your skills without hindering your progress in any way.
What Shoe Does Adam Ondra Use?
Ondra is sponsored by adidas and uses the Climacool® climbing shoe range. The Climacool range was launched in 2017 to much fanfare and excitement, with Ondra being one of the first professional athletes to wear the new shoes on a big stage.
The Climacool shoes are made from breathable fabrics that allow air to circulate around your feet so you don't overheat when climbing (or doing pretty much anything else). This makes them ideal for long sessions at the wall or crag. They're also designed with an aggressive downturned profile, thin cracks which allows you to feel locked into your toe hooks as well as giving them a distinct look.
Ondra has been spotted wearing several different colors of Climacool shoe over the years but one thing's for sure: he always wears his signature colorway: black/white/red. You can buy these directly from adidas but they can be hard to come by given their popularity. If you want a pair now, check out our guide on how to get the adidas Climacool sneaker collection here!
How Tight Should Intermediate Climbing Shoes Be?
The fit of your climbing shoes should be snug, but not overly tight. Your toes should feel exposed, and you should be able to wiggle your fingers inside the shoe. If the shoes are too tight, it will cut off circulation and make it hard for you to hold on properly. Plus, if they're too small, they'll dig into your heels as you climb and cause discomfort. On the other hand, if they're too loose, your feet will shift around in the shoes as you ascend - which is dangerous when climbing at higher grades because it can lead to bad footholds coming undone or losing hold of the rock. You want a secure fit that holds your foot in place without feeling uncomfortable – similar to how an athletic shoe or running sneaker fits.
Intermediate climbing shoes tend to run a little larger than other styles of athletic sneakers due to their thicker EVA soles and use by people who may have wider feet. They also feature more Velcro straps than beginner-level models to help dial in that ideal fit over multiple uses. It's worth noting that many manufacturers don't include sizing information with their products so take note of customer reviews regarding sizing before buying (or try them on at a store first).
What Are The 3 Types Of Climbing Shoes?
Climbing shoes are categorized into three groups: classic, sport, and bouldering. Classic climbing shoes are the most traditional type of shoe and they're best suited to all-around climbing. A great all-rounder, all around shoes these shoes will give you good grip on a variety of holds but their design means they aren't as ideal for extreme conditions or high volumes of climbing compared to other categories. Sport climbing shoes are designed for maximum performance on smaller, sharper holds found in competition arenas. They're specifically designed for routes with lots of changes in direction so comfort is sacrificed in favor of speed and security. Finally, bouldering shoes provide exceptional grip on low-friction rock that's often found at dedicated bouldering sites. These shoes typically have a stiffer upper compared to other styles and feature special rubber soles that offer fantastic purchase on small footholds.
How Hard Is 5.5 Climbing?
5.5 is the lowest grade that really begins to feel like climbing for many people. It's a solid baseline, and it corresponds roughly with being able to climb somewhere in the upper half of your gym's easiest roped routes. For many people who are new to climbing, 5.5 also represents a significant challenge and will be very challenging on most boulder problems unless there is low angle and soft sand underneath your feet or hands.
If you're used to climbing at a gym, other shoes then 5.5 might be considered an easy route for you depending on how hard you push yourself in training sessions and what grades you tend to focus on when setting solutions in competition settings (for instance higher grades if you're training specifically for national team selection).
Conclusion
Intermediate climbing shoes offer the perfect balance between comfort and performance. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, these shoes will help improve your skills on the rock wall. They are designed with premium materials that provide great grip and stability on all types of terrain so you can focus more on having fun rather than worrying about slipping off the wall. The wide range of sizes also makes it easy to find a pair that fits perfectly for an optimal fit and feel while climbing. Additionally, many models come in stylish designs so you can look good even when hanging from a rope!
SCARPA Men's Veloce Rock Climbing Shoes for Gym Climbing
