Finding your first pair of rock-climbing shoes can be intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. The market is full of options, and while that’s a good thing, it also means you can end up lost in a sea of rubber, velcro, and jargon. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the most talked-about entry-level climbing shoes available on Amazon, to help you make a confident start—especially if you’re climbing mostly indoors or just getting into bouldering or top-roping.
What Makes a Good Beginner Climbing Shoe?
When you’re starting out, your shoes should help you build skill—not punish you for being new. Here’s what to prioritise:
- Comfort: Early sessions last longer when your feet don’t hurt. Look for a relaxed fit.
- Neutral shape: Flat-lasted shoes allow you to develop technique without forcing your foot into aggressive positions.
- Sticky but durable rubber: You want to feel secure without burning through your soles in three months.
- Velcro closures: These make gym transitions quick and easy.
Most of the shoes below offer a forgiving fit and all-day wearability. They’re also built to last—perfect if you’re just starting to rack up sessions.
Top Beginner Climbing Shoes for 2025
🥇 La Sportiva Tarantula
- Profile: Neutral
- Closure: Velcro
The Tarantula is a fan-favourite for a reason. It hits a sweet spot between comfort, performance, and accessibility. With a synthetic upper and La Sportiva’s proprietary FriXion RS rubber, it balances sensitivity with durability. It’s a solid first choice for climbers who want something that performs on plastic and moderate outdoor routes.
Good to know: The fit runs wide. Great for those with a broader forefoot.
Men’s Version: Get it on Amazon
Women’s version: Get it on Amazon
🥈 Scarpa Origin
- Profile: Neutral
- Closure: Dual Velcro
Designed for comfort and consistency, the Scarpa Origin features a suede leather upper that adapts to your foot over time. Thick Vision rubber offers decent grip with extended wear, which is ideal if you’re putting in hours at the gym. The padding makes it one of the most comfortable options out there.
Standout for: Climbers who want a plush fit and long-lasting sole.
Men’s Version: Get it on Amazon
Women’s version: Get it on Amazon
🥉 Black Diamond Momentum
- Profile: Neutral
- Closure: Velcro or Lace
The Momentum features a breathable knit upper that keeps feet cooler than most climbing shoes. This makes it a smart choice for hot climbing gyms or summer bouldering sessions. It’s a softer shoe, so it works well for smearing and comfort-focused climbing.
Best for: Indoor climbers who prioritise comfort and airflow.
Men’s Version: Get it on Amazon
Women’s version: Get it on Amazon
✨ Evolv Defy
- Profile: Neutral
- Closure: Velcro
The Evolv Defy is known for its soft, comfortable feel straight out of the box. Its TRAX SAS rubber holds up well on volumes and gym holds, while the synthetic upper means minimal stretch over time. It’s also vegan, which is a bonus for ethically minded climbers.
Highlights: Reliable grip on indoor routes, budget-conscious, no break-in required.
🧗♂️ Tenaya Tanta
- Profile: Moderate (slight downturn)
- Closure: Velcro
For beginners ready to level up quickly, the Tenaya Tanta provides more toe power than flat-lasted shoes without the painful aggression of advanced models. It’s flexible, comfortable, and great for those looking to push into harder bouldering problems or sport routes.
Ideal for: New climbers with a serious progression mindset.
Quick Comparison Table
| Shoe | Profile | Closure | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Sportiva Tarantula | Neutral | Velcro | All-around beginner use |
| Scarpa Origin | Neutral | Velcro | Comfort, gym climbing |
| BD Momentum | Neutral | Velcro/Lace | Breathability, soft grip |
| Evolv Defy | Neutral | Velcro | Budget-friendly and vegan |
| Tenaya Tanta | Moderate | Velcro | Early progression |
Buying Tips
- Fit is personal. Try different brands—some fit narrow, others wide.
- No socks. Climbing shoes are meant to be snug and used barefoot.
- Expect some break-in. Most shoes feel better after a few sessions.
- Don’t size down too much. Aggressive sizing isn’t necessary for beginners.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need the most expensive or aggressive shoes to start climbing—you just need something that fits well, offers decent grip, and won’t leave your toes screaming. The models above are all reliable entry points depending on your budget, foot shape, and climbing goals.
As always, read reviews, try them on if possible, and choose shoes that suit where you’ll be climbing most—whether that’s your local bouldering gym or a sunny crag outside.
For more beginner-friendly guides and gear picks, keep exploring Wild Explorer Picks.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, Wild Explorer Picks earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
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