Best Budget Climbing Shoes of 2023

Climbing shoes are an essential piece of gear for any rock climber. However, they can also be quite expensive. Fortunately, there are many options for budget-conscious climbers that provide good performance without breaking the bank. In this article, we will take a look at the best cheap climbing shoes available on the market today. I will review their features, performance, and comfort, and compare them to more expensive options to help you find the perfect pair of climbing shoes that fits your needs and your budget.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, this article will give you the information you need to make an informed purchase and take your climbing to the next level.

1. La Sportiva Tarantulace

Downturn: Flat
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1.2 oz.
Upper: Leather/Microfiber
Outsole: FriXion RS rubber

Because of their adaptability, comfort, and affordability, La Sportiva Tarantulace climbing shoes are a popular choice among climbers of all levels. These shoes have a simple and traditional design, with a flat profile and neutral shape that makes them suited for a variety of climbing techniques, from sport to trad. The uppers are constructed of long-lasting and breathable synthetic material, while the sole is built of a sticky rubber that provides excellent traction on the rock. The lace-up closure mechanism provides an adjustable and secure fit, ensuring that the shoes stay in place even on the most difficult climbs.

The La Sportiva Tarantulace climbing shoes are well-known for their comfort, with a soft and supportive footbed that cushions your feet and aids in fatigue reduction. The shoes are also extremely breathable, keeping your feet cool and dry even on long climbs. Furthermore, the shoes are built to last, with reinforced toes and uppers that can resist the wear and tear of everyday use. Overall, the La Sportiva Tarantulace climbing shoes are an excellent option for those looking for a pair of affordable rock climbing shoes. With their simple design and high-performance features, they are well-suited for a wide range of climbing styles and levels of difficulty.

What I like: A durable and comfortable shoe at an affordable price.

What I don’t: Not recommended for serious climbs.

See the La Sportiva Tarantulace

2. Climb X Rave

Downturn: Moderate
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1.3 oz.
Upper: Leather
Outsole: Rubber sole

Climb X Rave climbing shoes are a popular choice among climbers. It is a great option for those looking for a high-performance shoe that won’t break the bank. These shoes are designed to provide climbers with the precision and sensitivity they need to handle difficult routes while remaining comfortable enough for extended use.

The Climb X Rave climbing shoes are designed with a downturned shape and a narrow last. This makes them ideal for overhanging routes and technical climbing. The shoes are also highly asymmetrical. They have a curved form that pulls the big toe down. It enables precise and powerful toe hooks. The shoes include a strong midsole that transfers power directly to the toes. This helps climbers to keep their footing on even the smallest holds. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, the Climb X Rave climbing shoes are a reliable and cost-effective choice for anyone looking to take their climbing to the next level.

What I like: A good entry-level option for beginner indoor climbers.

What I don’t: The straps are a little flimsy.

See the Climb X Rave

3. Black Diamond Momentum

Downturn: Moderate
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1.2 oz.
Upper: Knit fabric
Outsole: NeoFriction rubber

Black Diamond Momentum climbing shoes are a popular choice among climbers who are looking for a comfortable and versatile pair of shoes that can handle a wide range of climbing styles. The moderate profile of these shoes makes them suited for everything from sport climbing to trad climbing and everything in between. The shoe features a unique knit upper that adds to breathability and stretch. You also get NeoFriction rubber that is molded onto the upper for long-lasting traction. The Black Diamond Momentum climbing shoes’ slip-on design allows for quick and effortless transitions. This makes them an excellent choice for climbers who want to spend more time on the wall and less time fumbling with their shoes.

The Black Diamond Momentum climbing shoes are comfortable. They have a padded tongue and heel to cushion your feet and decrease strain. The shoes are also extremely breathable. They feature mesh panels that keep your feet cool and dry even on long climbs. Additionally, the shoes are built to last, with reinforced toe caps and uppers that can resist the wear and tear of regular use. These shoes are well-suited for climbers of all levels, from beginners to experienced climbers, thanks to their neutral shape, breathable construction, and comfortable fit. The Black Diamond Momentum climbing shoes are a terrific choice if you’re just starting out or looking for a dependable set of shoes that can keep up with your climbing.

What I like: Fulfills several requirements for beginner climbers.

What I don’t: Not a high-performance shoe; some people find it to be too narrow.

See the Black Diamond Momentum

4. Five Ten NIAD Moccasym

Downturn: Moderate
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1.6 oz.
Upper: Suede leather
Outsole: Stealth C4 rubber

This shoe is a classic design that’s been around for a while. The basic elastic closure provides a comfortable relaxed fit which makes this a great choice for a do-everything shoe. If you size them down, then you can break them in and have a versatile ascending shoe that’s still comfortable to wear for a long time. The shoes are constructed with durable and breathable synthetic material on the upper, while the sole is made of Five Ten’s renowned Stealth rubber, known for its superior grip and durability. The Stealth C4 Rubber gives a good grip for smearing and enough support for edging. The Moccasym would make a really great addition to practically anyone’s rock shoe collection.

The Niad Moccasym is made with comfort in mind, featuring a moccasin style that promotes natural foot movement. The shoes have mesh panels that are highly breathable and help to keep the feet cool during long ascents. With reinforced toe caps and uppers that can resist repeated wear, they are also long-lasting. The grip that the Stealth rubber outsole of the Niad Moccasym offers, enabling exceptional traction on a range of surfaces, is one of its unique features. Even after frequent usage, this rubber maintains a firm grip. It is extremely tough. These shoes will satisfy your climbing needs whether you are a beginner or an expert climber thanks to their neutral shape, breathable design, and exceptional grip.

What I like: Excellent grip, good for roofs and overhangs

What I don’t: Runs small so you need to size up.

See the Five Ten NIAD Moccasym

5. Evolv Defy

Downturn: Flat
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1 oz.
Upper: Synthratek VX
Outsole: Trax high-friction rubber

The Evolv Defy climbing shoes are a versatile and reliable choice for climbers of all levels. These shoes have a flat profile and a neutral form. This makes them appropriate for a variety of climbing styles ranging from sport climbing to bouldering. The upper is constructed with Synthratek VX, which is a breathable and flexible synthetic material. The sole is made of Evolv’s Trax rubber, which delivers outstanding traction and durability. One of the standout features of the Evolv Defy climbing shoes is their comfort. These shoes are built for long-term wear, with a supportive and comfortable fit that keeps your feet happy and pain-free even after long climbs. Additionally, the shoes are made to be breathable, featuring mesh panels that keep your feet cool and dry even in hot and humid weather.

The Trax rubber outsole of the Evolv Defy climbing shoes provides excellent grip. The grip allows you to maintain your footing on even the slipperiest of holds. This rubber is also highly durable, providing a long-lasting grip even after repeated use. Additionally, the rubber is sticky, allowing you to stick to even the smallest of holds and make precise foot placements. With their flat profile, neutral shape, and excellent grip, these shoes are well-suited for climbers of all levels, from beginners to experienced climbers. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking for a reliable pair of shoes that can keep up with your climbing, the Evolv Defy climbing shoes are a great choice.

What I like: A good option for beginner indoor climbing.

What I don’t: The sizing is a little bit off.

See the Evolv Defy

6. Evolv Rave

Downturn: Flat
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 1.4 oz.
Upper: Leather
Outsole: Trax SAS rubber

The Rave is another option from Evolv that features slip-on construction, a flat last, and all-rounder intentions. This low-profile slip-on design helps ensure nothing gets in the way when you’re crack climbing. These shoes feature a slightly downturned shape and moderate asymmetry. This shape makes them an ideal pair of budget-bouldering shoes. The shoe features a leather upper and Evolv’s Trax rubber outsole that provides excellent grip on a variety of surfaces. Comfort is a standout feature of these shoes. The shoes have a soft and padded tongue, which helps to provide a comfortable fit even during extended climbs. Also, the premium leather upper adds to the overall comfort.

While the Evolv Rave climbing shoes are a popular and reliable option for climbers, there are some downsides to consider. One issue is that the shoes can feel tight and uncomfortable for those with wider feet, especially during extended periods of wear. Another downside to consider is that the Evolv Rave climbing shoes may not be the best option for climbers who prefer a more aggressive and downturned shape for overhanging routes and boulder problems. Finally, Evolv’s Trax rubber is durable, but it may not provide the same level of traction as other climbing shoes. Some climbers prefer softer rubber for better grip on slick holds, while others prefer harder rubber for additional support and stability.

What I like: A wonderful all-around slipper, especially for thin cracks.

What I don’t: Unlined, and the fit cannot be customized.

See the Evolv Rave

7. Scarpa Origin

Downturn: Flat
Weight (Pair): 14.4 oz.
Upper: Suede leather
Outsole: Vision rubber

Scarpa Origin shoes feature a neutral shape and a flat profile. These two features make them well-suited for a wide range of climbing styles, including sport, trad climbing, and bouldering. The upper of the Scarpa Origin is made of high-quality suede leather. The outsole is made of Vision rubber, which provides excellent grip and durability. This rubber is also highly durable, providing a long-lasting grip even after repeated use. The flat shape of the shoes also helps to provide stability and balance, making them ideal for more relaxed climbing styles. While this sole is durable, some climbers may prefer a material that can last even longer.

Some climbers have also reported that the shoes can feel too flat and neutral for those who prefer a more aggressive and downturned shape. The flat profile of the shoes may not provide enough power and precision for climbers who are used to a more aggressive shape, especially on overhanging routes and boulder problems. Additionally, the sizing of the Scarpa Origin climbing shoes can be inconsistent, with some climbers reporting that the shoes run small or large. It is important to try on a pair of these shoes before purchasing or to purchase from a retailer that offers a generous return policy.

What I like: A comfortable and fantastic beginner shoe.

What I don’t: Inconsistent sizing, questionable durability

See the Scarpa Origin

8. TENAYA Tanta

Downturn: Moderate
Weight (Pair): 1 lb. 3.2 oz.
Upper: Microfiber
Outsole: Recycled rubber

TENAYA is a Spanish company that’s been around for quite some time in Spain, however, they’ve now started to sell shoes directly to the United States. The Tanta has been marketed as a beginner shoe and some people actually have found it to be a good all-around shoe because it is very comfortable. The shoe has a slightly raised last but the toe is flat, which makes it a comfortable shoe. On the outside, there’s synthetic leather, which according to TENAYA, will mold to the foot but will stretch. The shoe is comfortable from the beginning and you will not notice any noticeable stretching.

On the inside, you will find soft cotton, which absorbs moisture, and a recycled rubber outsole on the outside. Keep in mind that the shoes can be quite stiff and uncomfortable, especially when breaking them in. The high level of support and precision provided by the shoes can be difficult to get used to, especially for climbers who are used to a more relaxed fit. Also, the shoe is not versatile enough for a wide range of climbing styles. Finally, these shoes are designed to be relatively aggressive and precise, which may not be ideal for climbers who need a more relaxed and comfortable shoe for more casual climbing sessions.

What I like: Comfortable and a good option for people with wide feet

What I don’t: Average breathability and traction

See the TENAYA Tanta

Best Budget Climbing Shoes: Comparison Table

How to Choose Rock Climbing Shoes?

Choosing the right rock climbing shoes can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of knowledge and research, you can find the perfect pair for your individual climbing style and needs. Here are some of the key factors to consider when choosing rock climbing shoes:

Fit

Fit is the most critical consideration when selecting rock climbing shoes. Try on many different brands and styles, and select a shoe that is snug but not too tight. Consider your foot shape and the type of climbing you intend to do, as certain shoes are made to be more aggressive and precise, while others are designed to be more relaxed and comfortable.

Comfort

Rock climbing shoes must be comfortable because you will be using them for several hours at a time. Choose a shoe that is comfy immediately out of the box and does not create pain or discomfort even after several hours of use.

Performance

Consider the type of climbing you intend to do and select a shoe built to fulfill your individual performance requirements. For example, if you intend to climb a lot of overhanging routes and boulder issues, you may want to select an aggressive and precise shoe, whereas if you intend to climb more casually, you may want to select a more relaxed and comfortable shoe.

Durability

Rock climbing shoes can withstand a lot of abuse, so choose a pair that is meant to last. Consider the rubber used for the soles, the materials used for the uppers, and the shoe’s construction.

Budget

Rock climbing shoes can cost anywhere from $50 to over $200, so find a pair that falls within your budget. Remember that a more expensive shoe is not always better and that the most important consideration is selecting a shoe that fits well, is comfortable, and matches your performance requirements.

Downturn

The downturn of a climbing shoe refers to the shape of the toe area (keep in mind that there’s a slight difference in downturn and curl), and it can have a significant impact on the performance of the shoe. Here are some of the most common types of downturns in climbing shoes:

• Neutral or Flat Downturn: A neutral downturn is a relaxed shape that is meant to be comfortable and versatile. It’s good for climbers who like a more relaxed fit, but it’s also great for beginners and intermediates.
• Moderate Downturn: A moderate downturn offers a balance between comfort and performance. It is ideal for climbers who need a shoe that can handle a wide range of climbing styles, from sport climbing to bouldering.
• Aggressive Downturn: An aggressive downturn is a highly downturned shape that is designed for overhanging routes and boulder problems. It provides a high level of precision and support for advanced climbers who need high-performance shoes.
• Asymmetrical Downturn: An asymmetrical downturn is a unique shape that is intended to resemble the natural curve of the foot. It offers a high level of precision and support for climbers who require a specialized shoe for challenging climbs.

There are several types of downturns in climbing shoes, each designed to meet the specific needs of different types of climbers. When choosing a climbing shoe, consider your individual climbing style, preferences, and needs to find the perfect pair for you.

Types of Climbing Shoes

There are different types of climbing shoes, each designed for specific styles of climbing:

• Trad Climbing Shoes: Climbers who climb multi-pitch routes and require comfortable shoes for extended periods of time will benefit from traditional climbing shoes. They often feature a more relaxed fit and a stronger sole for edging on small holds.
• Sport Climbing Shoes: Sport climbing shoes are intended for climbers that love sport climbing and require an aggressive and precise shoe for challenging routes. They have a rounded form and a strong sole that aids in power transfer to the toes.
• Bouldering Shoes: Bouldering shoes are intended for climbers who prefer bouldering and require an aggressive and precise shoe for difficult boulder problems. For best traction on the rock, they have a downturned design and a sticky rubber sole.
• Gym Climbing Shoes: Gym climbing shoes are intended for climbers who like indoor climbing and require a shoe that is both comfortable and adaptable to a variety of climbing styles. For enhanced comfort during climbing, they may have a more relaxed fit and a softer sole.

Each type of climbing shoe is designed to meet the specific needs of different types of climbers. When choosing a climbing shoe, consider your individual climbing style, preferences, and needs to find the perfect pair for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right climbing shoes is an important decision for any climber, as it can greatly impact your climbing performance and comfort. When selecting a climbing shoe, it is critical to consider things such as your climbing style, the type of routes you climb, your foot shape, and your personal preferences. With so many options on the market, finding the perfect pair may require some trial and error, but the effort will be worthwhile in the end. Whether you are a beginner or an expert climber, investing in the right climbing shoes will help you reach new heights in your climbing journey.