Indoor Wall Climbing Shoes

For experienced climbers, a light and snug pair of slipper-style shoes is suitable for indoor climbing as it provides a high degree of sensitivity in feeling footholds. However, slippers may not provide enough support for beginners, in which case it may be better to choose a sturdier pair of shoes with a thicker sole.

Comfort and Fit

Due to ease of access to routes at indoor walls, you might climb more frequently than when you are outdoors, which means you will spend more time in your climbing shoes. All-day comfort shoes are the most suitable choice, according to REI. When choosing your first pair, the fit should feel like a running shoe and be comfortable out of the box.

Features

Gym wall surfaces can be abrasive, so choose fairly thick soles if you want your shoes to last longer. However, bear in mind that thicker soles will offer less sensitivity to feeling footholds. Closure systems may vary between lace-up, hook-and-loop and slippers, all of which deliver unique benefits. Lace-ups may be accurately adjusted, hook-and-loops are practical in that they may be fitted and removed with ease and slippers offer the greatest degree of sensitivity.

Five Ten Anasazi Moccasym

The Five Ten Anasazi Moccasym is suitable for intermediate to advanced climbers. With an unlined leather upper, these slippers mold to your foot and allow you to feel the edges of footholds with great sensitivity. The combination of an asymmetrical toe profile that focuses power to your big toe and thin, sticky Stealth C4 soles allow you to effectively grip tiny footholds on both vertical and overhanging routes. Three pull-on loops allow for quick application and removal.

Evolv Defy VTR

The Evolv Defy VTR features a thick, yet soft, rubber midsole that offers support while simultaneously enabling good smearing and a fair amount of sensitivity. A nylon lining ensures comfort, while a synthetic upper prevents stretching and maximizes breathability. The hook-and-loop closure system consists of two Velcro straps that allow the shoes to be fitted and removed with ease.

La Sportiva Mythos

Constructed from leather that stretches around the contours of your foot, the La Sportiva Mythos features a patented lacing system that keeps your heel in place for a snug fit. According to La Sportiva, a symmetric toe profile ensures comfort while the stiffness of the Vibram XS Grip sole offers the best compromise between sensitivity and friction.

Care and Maintenance

Climbing shoes will last longer and perform better if you maintain them, says Malcolm Creasey in "The Complete Rock Climber." Wipe the soles of your shoes clean after use to prevent dirt from diminishing their friction properties. Rands, toe caps and soles may be replaced by specialist companies once they wear out.