Here’s an overview of the Best Climbing Shoes For Women that we’ll explore today:
Climbing shoes are an essential piece of gear for climbers, as they directly impact performance, comfort, and safety during climbing sessions. Whether you’re scaling indoor walls or tackling outdoor crags, the right climbing shoe can make all the difference. In this comparison, we evaluated five popular climbing shoes for women, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium models. Our testing methodology included assessing performance on various climbing surfaces, analyzing comfort during extended use, and evaluating durability and design features. The products reviewed span a wide price range ($39.99 to $99.95), offering options for both beginners and experienced climbers.
1. Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe 2019
- Brand: CLIMBX
- Manufacturer: CLIMBX
The Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe is a versatile option that balances comfort and functionality. With features like double-stitch construction, a padded collar and heel, and a polypropylene midsole, this shoe is designed for durability and ease of use. Its one-piece binding ensures a snug fit, and the option to size up or down allows users to customize the fit for comfort or performance. While this shoe is marketed as an all-around climbing shoe, it is particularly well-suited for indoor gym sessions and moderate outdoor climbs.
In performance testing, the Climb X Rave excelled in providing a secure fit and adequate support for beginner to intermediate climbers. The padded collar and heel were appreciated during longer sessions, reducing discomfort. However, the shoe’s moderate stiffness may limit precision on technical climbs. For new climbers, sizing up for comfort is recommended, as the pre-downsized nature of the shoe can feel restrictive. Advanced climbers may find the shoe lacking in aggressive performance capabilities compared to higher-end models.
Pros
- Comfortable padded collar and heel
- Durable double-stitch construction
- Customizable fit for comfort or performance
Cons
- Moderate stiffness limits precision
- Not ideal for advanced technical climbs
2. BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes – Women’s
- Brand: BLACK DIAMOND
- Manufacturer: BLACK DIAMOND
The BLACK DIAMOND Momentum Climbing Shoes are a premium option designed with comfort and breathability in mind. Featuring Engineered Knit Technology for stretch and support, these shoes provide an excellent fit for all-day use. The molded rubber outsole enhances durability and ensures consistent performance. With a flat-last design and soft-flex midsole, the Momentum is ideal for entry-level climbers seeking a reliable and comfortable shoe for gym sessions and moderate outdoor routes.
During testing, the Momentum stood out for its breathability and all-day comfort. The microfiber liner minimized stretch, maintaining the shoe’s shape over time. The molded rubber provided excellent grip and consistency, though it lacked the precision needed for more demanding climbs. While its flat-last design makes it less aggressive, it is perfect for beginners or climbers prioritizing comfort over performance. Advanced climbers may find it less suitable for steep or technical routes.
Pros
- Exceptional breathability with Engineered Knit Technology
- Durable molded rubber outsole
- All-day comfort for moderate climbs
Cons
- Not aggressive enough for advanced climbs
- Higher price point
3. La Sportiva Womens Tarantula All-Around Rock Climbing Shoe
- Brand: La Sportiva
- Manufacturer: La Sportiva
The La Sportiva Tarantula is a versatile climbing shoe designed for all-around use, combining comfort and performance. Its hook-and-loop closure system allows for quick adjustments, while the unlined leather upper ensures a snug fit that molds to the foot over time. The shoe features a rounded toe box and moderate downturn, making it suitable for a wide range of climbing styles, from gym sessions to outdoor routes.
In testing, the Tarantula demonstrated solid grip and support, especially on slab and vertical climbs. Its leather upper provided comfort during extended use, though it stretched slightly over time, requiring size adjustments. The rounded toe box was less precise on technical footholds, but the shoe’s overall versatility makes it a great choice for beginner to intermediate climbers seeking a reliable all-around option.
Pros
- Versatile design for various climbing styles
- Comfortable leather upper molds to foot
- Quick and adjustable hook-and-loop closure
Cons
- Toe box lacks precision on technical climbs
- Leather upper stretches over time
4. La Sportiva Womens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes
- Brand: La Sportiva
- Manufacturer: La Sportiva
The La Sportiva Tarantulace is a lace-up climbing shoe designed for climbers seeking precision and performance. Its unlined leather upper offers comfort and adaptability, while the aggressive profile and sticky FriXion RS rubber outsole deliver excellent grip and edging capabilities. The lace-up closure allows for fine-tuned adjustments, making it suitable for climbers with varying foot shapes.
During testing, the Tarantulace excelled in providing precision and control on technical climbs. The sticky rubber outsole performed well on steep routes, offering reliable grip and stability. However, the unlined leather upper stretched over time, requiring careful sizing. While the shoe is less comfortable for extended use compared to less aggressive models, its performance-oriented design makes it a strong choice for intermediate to advanced climbers tackling challenging routes.
Pros
- Aggressive profile for precision
- Sticky FriXion RS rubber for grip
- Lace-up closure for fine-tuned fit
Cons
- Less comfortable for extended use
- Leather upper stretches over time
5. Professional All-Around Mens Womens Climbing Shoes for Gym
- Brand: SoleEase
- Manufacturer: SoleEase
The SoleEase Professional All-Around Climbing Shoes are a budget-friendly option designed for gym and sport climbing. With a synthetic upper and a flat-last design, these shoes prioritize affordability and comfort for beginner climbers. While they lack advanced features, they provide adequate grip and support for casual climbing sessions.
In testing, the SoleEase shoes performed reasonably well on indoor walls, offering a secure fit and decent grip. However, their synthetic construction lacked breathability, leading to discomfort during extended use. The flat-last design limits their application for more technical climbs, but they are a good entry-level option for those new to climbing or on a tight budget.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Secure fit for beginners
- Adequate grip for casual climbing
Cons
- Limited breathability
- Not suitable for advanced climbs
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about climbing shoes for womens to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Choosing the right climbing shoes for women can truly enhance your game.
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