The Finest 10 Best Moderate Climbing Shoes, Expert-Recommended Picks
About Moderate Climbing Shoes
These moderate climbing shoes are the perfect combination of comfort and performance. The lightweight and breathable upper is made from a combination of synthetic suede and mesh, providing a snug and secure fit while still allowing for great breathability. The midsole is made from a lightweight EVA foam, giving you the cushioning and support you need for long days on the wall. The rubber outsole is specially designed for climbing, providing the perfect balance of stiffness and flexibility for precise edging and smearing. Whether you’re an experienced climber or just starting out, these moderate climbing shoes are the perfect choice.
1#. Black Diamond Mens Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes
Features
Neutral, flat last for vertical climbing or all-day comfort
Updated midsole for improved edging ability
Two Velcro straps for fit adjustability
4.3mm rubber is built for durability and molded for optimal consistency and performance
Soft flex midsole for added sensitivity and comfort
Materials in entire shoe are completely vegan
Hemp footbed
Updated knit with softer lining provides exceptional breathability and improved comfort
Softer toe rands for better fit and comfort
Updated heel rubber geometry for consistent tension
2#. Black Diamond Zone LV Climbing Shoe
Features
Rubber sole
Minimalist midsole for extra sensitivity on
Downturned last for steep pulli
Midsole: medium-flex
Upper Material: knit
3#. La Sportiva Mens Aragon Rock Climbing Shoes
Features
Rubber sole
4#. Evolv Kira Climbing Shoes – Women’s
Features
Rubber sole
5#. SCARPA Women’s Arpia Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering – Low-Volume, Women’s Specific Fit
Features
Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber sole
Comfortable Performance | The Arpia features a slight downturn, moderate asymmetry, and a more narrow, women’s-specific last making it an ideal rock shoe as you transition from a flat profile to a more performance-oriented fit.
Z-Strap Closure | Customize the fit by simply adjusting the single hook-and-loop Z-strap, which also makes it easy to get the shoe on and off quickly.
Vibram XS Grip 2 Rubber | Ideal for any rock type and style, the XS Grip 2 rubber is both stiff and sticky, giving you the grip you need for steeper walls and overhanging boulders.
Flexan Dynamic Midsole | Offsetting the softer upper, the redesigned Flexan midsole is slightly stiffer, offering plenty of support and reducing foot fatigue on multi-pitch routes.
V-Tension Rand | This active rand design runs under the sole to give you the feel of a more aggressive shoe without the associated pressure on your big toes.
6#. Black Diamond Womens Momentum Rock Climbing Shoes
Features
Rubber sole
Neutral, flat last for vertical climbing or all-day comfort
Updated midsole for improved edging ability
Women’s specific last provides customized fit
Two Velcro straps for fit adjustability
4.3mm rubber is built for durability and molded for optimal consistency and performance
Soft flex midsole for added sensitivity and comfort
Hemp footbed
Updated knit with softer lining provides exceptional breathability and improved comfort
Softer toe rands for better fit and comfort
Updated heel rubber geometry for consistent tension
7#. La Sportiva Tarantula Climbing Shoe – Kiwi/Grey 37
Features
Suede sole
Comfortable unlined leather upper provides all day comfort
Long lasting sticky FriXion rubber sticks to plastic and rock equally as well
Infinitely adjustable closure system adapts to various foot types
Asymmetrical shape helps beginning climbers push the grades at a faster pace
Wright: 10.23 oz / 290 g
8#. Black Diamond Mens Momentum Lace Rock Climbing Shoes
Features
100% Synthetic
Lace-Up closure
Machine Wash
Snug fit: You may wish to size up a half-size larger than normal
Featuring Engineered Knit Technology for exceptional breathability and our innovative proprietary molded rubber, the Momentum Lace is built for ultimate comfort and excels in performance
Designed as the perfect entry-level climbing shoe, this lace-up shoe provides ultimate adjustability for all day comfort at the gym or crag
Neutral, flat last for vertical climbing or all-day comfort
Lace entry for fit adjustability
4.3mm rubber is built for durability and molded for optimal consistency and performance
9#. SCARPA Men’s Vapor V Rock Climbing Shoes for Sport Climbing and Bouldering
Features
Vibram XS Edge (3.5mm) sole
Versatility In Form | Built with a moderate downturn and slightly asymmetric profile, the Vapor V blends performance in steep terrain with the sensitivity and comfort you need when the angle eases off.
Suede In Spades | A microsuede upper with a reduced tongue volume keeps the shoe supple, while a suede foot base conforms to the shape of your foot, providing all-day comfort.
Vibram XS Edge Rubber | Stiff enough to let you stand on the thinnest edges, the XS Edge outsole pairs nicely with the softer M70 rubber in the heel for a shoe that can handle everything from short, technical boulders to long, vertical headwalls.
Flexan Dynamic Midsole | Offsetting the softer upper, the redesigned Flexan midsole is slightly stiffer, offering plenty of support and reducing foot fatigue on multi-pitch routes.
Bi-Tension Rand | Using a reverse slingshot design, this system connects your heel to your toe, resulting in less foot discomfort and more power being driven towards your primary edging surface.
10#. La Sportiva Mens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes
Features
Rubber sole
User profile – Ideal for the climber looking for a single pair of shoes to do it all; a jack-of-all-trades climbing shoe comfortable enough for all-day outdoor climbing or a trip to the gym.
Breathable & Durable – The all-leather upper is breathable and durable yet stretches to conform to your foot shape. Padded internal tongue with cotton lining protects the sensitive top of your foot.
Secure & comfortable fit – An updated heel cup holds the heel in place for a secure and snug fit. Quick-pull lacing allows for precise fit along the length of the foot, wrapping the foot snugly for excellent support, fit, and comfort. Two heel pull-tabs and one togue tab assist in easy on/off.
Great Grip – An aggressive rubber heel rand and the sticky FriXion RS rubber is grippy yet hard wearing, offering increased durability and providing a powerful edging platform climb after climb. A ultra-thin LaSpoflex midsole provides maximum torsional rigidity.
Fit Tip – Designed with rounded forefoot and higher volume to comfortably fit more climbers. Rock climbing shoes are designed to fit differently than other footwear; Be sure to reference the La Sportiva size chart in the product images for more accurate sizing; The fit should be tight, but not painful, and without pressure points.
