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Best Climbing Shoes For Edging (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for the perfect pair of shoes for your next climbing adventure, you might want to consider investing in some climbing shoes designed for edging. These shoes are specially crafted to provide maximum support and grip when standing on tiny holds and edges, making them ideal for climbers who love to climb on technical routes.

Before you buy any pair of climbing shoes for edging, it’s important to consider a few factors. Firstly, you need to think about the type of climbing you’ll be doing. Are you a boulderer, sport climber or trad climber? Different types of climbing require different types of shoes. It’s also important to choose shoes that fit snuggly to your feet without being too tight or loose-fitting. This will prevent your feet from slipping or sliding in your shoes, which can hinder your climbing progress.

Some questions to help you pick the right climbing shoes: Are you looking for a shoe with a stiff or soft sole? Do you want a shoe with a lace-up or velcro closure? Would you prefer a performance fit or a more comfortable fit? These are just a few of the questions you’ll need to ask yourself before you commit to any particular pair of climbing shoes for edging. By considering all of these factors, you’ll be able to make an informed decision that’s tailored to your individual needs and preferences.

10 Best Climbing Shoes For Edging

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for sport climbing and bouldering, providing comfort and support during intense athletic activity.
2
The product is ideal for sport climbing and bouldering, characterized by its ocean and yellow color.
3
This product is ideal for climbing and provides a comfortable and secure fit.
4
The product is ideal for sport climbing and bouldering due to its specialized performance for edging and support.
5
This product is ideal for women who enjoy rock climbing and need high-quality climbing shoes.
6
The product is ideal for rock climbing and bouldering, providing specialized performance for edging and support.
7
The product is ideal for climbing and provides a secure grip while being comfortable and stylish.
8
Climbing steep and technical routes with precision and sensitivity on both indoor and outdoor rock surfaces.
9
The product is ideal for men who are looking for high-performance and durable climbing shoes.
10
The product is ideal for women's climbing with its jade green and white design.
This product is ideal for sport climbing and bouldering, providing comfort and support during intense athletic activity.
The product is ideal for sport climbing and bouldering, characterized by its ocean and yellow color.
This product is ideal for climbing and provides a comfortable and secure fit.
The product is ideal for sport climbing and bouldering due to its specialized performance for edging and support.
This product is ideal for women who enjoy rock climbing and need high-quality climbing shoes.
The product is ideal for rock climbing and bouldering, providing specialized performance for edging and support.
The product is ideal for climbing and provides a secure grip while being comfortable and stylish.
Climbing steep and technical routes with precision and sensitivity on both indoor and outdoor rock surfaces.
The product is ideal for men who are looking for high-performance and durable climbing shoes.
The product is ideal for women's climbing with its jade green and white design.

1. Scarpa Men's Vapor V Rock Climbing Shoes For Sport Climbing And Bouldering – Ocean/yellow – 10.5

The Vapor V climbing shoes offer a versatile design suitable for steep terrain and comfortable enough for less challenging climbs. It features a moderate downturn and slightly asymmetric profile, ensuring a blend of performance and sensitivity. The microsuede upper with a reduced tongue volume ensures suppleness, while the suede foot base conforms to the foot's shape for all-day comfort.

The Vibram XS Edge Rubber outsole is stiff enough to support standing on thin edges, and it pairs well with the softer M70 rubber in the heel for a shoe that can handle different types of climbs. The redesigned Flexan midsole is slightly stiffer, providing ample support and reducing foot fatigue during multi-pitch climbs. The Bi-Tension Rand system connects the heel to the toe using a reverse slingshot design, reducing foot discomfort and driving more power towards the primary edging surface.

Overall, the Vapor V climbing shoes are an excellent choice for climbers looking for a versatile shoe that can handle a range of climbs while providing comfort and support.

Pros

  • Moderate downturn and slightly asymmetric profile for a blend of performance and sensitivity
  • Microsuede upper with reduced tongue volume for suppleness and comfort
  • Vibram XS Edge Rubber outsole for standing on thin edges
  • Redesigned Flexan midsole for support and reduced foot fatigue
  • Bi-Tension Rand system for reduced foot discomfort and increased power

2. Scarpa Men's Vapor V Rock Climbing Shoes For Sport Climbing And Bouldering – Ocean/yellow – 6.5

The Vapor V climbing shoe boasts a versatile form, designed with a moderate downturn and slightly asymmetric profile to offer both performance in steep terrain and comfort on easier angles. Its microsuede upper has reduced tongue volume and a suede foot base to provide supple support and all-day comfort.

Equipped with Vibram XS Edge rubber, the shoe has a stiff outsole that enables climbers to stand on thin edges while the softer M70 rubber in the heel enhances traction. The redesigned Flexan dynamic midsole offsets the softer upper by providing ample support, reducing foot fatigue on multi-pitch routes.

For added comfort and power, the Vapor V features a bi-tension rand design that connects the heel to the toe in a reverse slingshot manner. This design allows for less foot discomfort and more power to be driven towards the primary edging surface.

Pros

  • Moderate downturn and slightly asymmetric profile offer versatility for different terrain
  • Microsuede upper with reduced tongue volume and suede foot base provides supple support and all-day comfort
  • Vibram XS Edge rubber outsole is stiff for standing on thin edges while softer M70 rubber in the heel enhances traction
  • Redesigned Flexan dynamic midsole provides ample support and reduces foot fatigue on multi-pitch routes
  • Bi-tension rand design allows for less foot discomfort and more power to be driven towards the primary edging surface

3. Scarpa Men's Instinct Vs Climbing Shoe,black,37.5 Eu/5.5 M Us

The Scarpa Instinct VS is a climbing shoe that provides a combination of stiffness and support. It has a slightly softer upper than its predecessor, the Instinct, and features a thinner sole that allows for greater sensitivity to the rock. The large patch of rubber on top of the shoe provides maximum coverage for toe hooks and bat hangs, while the Vibram rubber in the forefoot and heel molds perfectly to any rock type. The XS Edge rubber in the forefoot is stiff enough to let you stand on the thinnest edges, while the stickier XS Grip 2 heel rubber is perfect for heel hooks. The redesigned Flexan midsole is slightly stiffer than the upper, offering plenty of support and reducing foot fatigue on multi-pitch routes. The bi-tension rand system connects your heel to your toe using a reverse slingshot design, resulting in less foot discomfort and more power being driven towards your primary edging surface.

Pros

  • Stiff and supportive
  • Thin sole for added sensitivity
  • Large patch of rubber on top for maximum coverage for toe hooks and bat hangs
  • Vibram rubber in the forefoot and heel molds perfectly to any rock type
  • XS Edge rubber in the forefoot is stiff enough to let you stand on the thinnest edges
  • XS Grip 2 heel rubber is perfect for heel hooks
  • Redesigned Flexan midsole offers plenty of support and reduces foot fatigue on multi-pitch routes
  • Bi-tension rand system connects your heel to your toe resulting in less foot discomfort and more power being driven towards your primary edging surface

4. Black Lace Climbing Shoes For Edging

The Mago climbing shoe is perfect for those who love sport climbing. With its aggressive downturned profile, it is designed to help you push your limits on steep sport routes. The shoe features a lace-up design that provides a supportive fit, ensuring that your foot remains secure and comfortable during climbs.

One of the standout features of the Mago is its Toe Power Support. This innovative insert under the forefoot offers increased power, improved pulling, and a more precise feel on small footholds. This means you can confidently tackle even the most technical climbs.

The Vibram XS Grip 2 Rubber sole is another highlight of the Mago. The stiff and sticky high-performance rubber delivers maximum grip, allowing for precise footwork on overhanging climbs. This is essential when climbing at your limit and needing to trust your foot placement.

The X-Tension System of the Mago is designed to lift the heel while supporting the arch and forefoot, focusing power towards your big toe. This means you can generate more power and precision in your footwork, giving you an edge on difficult climbs.

Finally, the Mago features an improved upper made from microfiber and Alcantara. This combination creates a breathable, soft, and lightweight upper that will keep your feet comfortable during long climbing sessions. Overall, the Mago is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-performance climbing shoe that can handle steep sport routes with ease.

Pros

  • Aggressive downturned profile for steep sport routes
  • Toe Power Support for increased power and precision
  • Vibram XS Grip 2 Rubber for maximum grip on overhanging climbs
  • X-Tension System for more power and precision in footwork
  • Improved microfiber and Alcantara upper for comfort and breathability

5. Five Ten Anasazi Lv Climbing Shoes Women's, Green, Size 5

For climbers in search of a high-performance shoe with a narrow fit, the Anasazi VCS Low Volume is an excellent choice. The shoe is a low-volume version of the classic Anasazi VCS, designed to provide comfort and support for performance. Its asymmetric toe shape and narrow fit provide a snug fit that enhances precision and sensitivity on the rock. The shoe is equipped with a hook-and-loop strap closure that ensures a secure and customizable fit. The Stealth C4 rubber outsole provides excellent grip and durability, enabling climbers to smear, edge, and hook with confidence. With its impressive performance features, the Anasazi VCS Low Volume is a top choice for climbers looking to take their climbing to the next level.

The Anasazi VCS Low Volume climbing shoe is an excellent option for climbers seeking a high-performance shoe that offers a narrow fit. The shoe's asymmetric toe shape and low-volume design provide a snug fit that enhances precision and sensitivity on the rock. Its hook-and-loop strap closure ensures a secure and customizable fit, while the Stealth C4 rubber outsole provides excellent grip and durability. With its impressive performance features, the Anasazi VCS Low Volume is a top choice for climbers who demand the best from their gear.

Climbers who prioritize performance and precision will appreciate the Anasazi VCS Low Volume climbing shoe. The shoe features a narrow fit and asymmetric toe shape that provide comfort and support for performance. Its hook-and-loop strap closure ensures a secure and customizable fit, while the Stealth C4 rubber outsole provides excellent grip and durability. With its impressive performance features, the Anasazi VCS Low Volume is an excellent choice for climbers looking to take on challenging routes with confidence.

Pros

  • Narrow fit and asymmetric toe shape provide comfort and support for performance
  • Hook-and-loop strap closure ensures a secure and customizable fit
  • Stealth C4 rubber outsole provides excellent grip and durability

6. Boostic Climbing Shoes: Ultimate Support And Grip.

The Boostic from Technical By Design is a redesigned rock shoe that is perfect for long pitches and small edges. It features an aggressive downturn and high asymmetry which ensures all-around face climbing performance. The shoe is equipped with a curved midsole that offers maximum support and increases the stability and stiffness of the shoe without losing sensitivity. This feature makes it easier for climbers to stand on the smallest edges. The Vibram XS Edge Rubber outsole is ideal for technical face climbing on small footholds. The XS Edge rubber is stiff enough to support the body weight of the climber and provides excellent grip and traction. The DTS Active Rand system amplifies the highly asymmetric design and transfers power directly to the big toe, helping the shoe retain its downturned shape. The PAF System is an innovative heel cup that spreads out the force created while heel hooking. This feature offers the stick climbers want without adding pressure on the Achilles tendon. Overall, the Boostic is a reliable and high-performance rock shoe that is perfect for technical face climbing and small footholds.

The Boostic is equipped with Vibram XS Edge Rubber outsole providing excellent grip and traction.

The DTS Active Rand system transfers power directly to the big toe, helping the shoe to retain its downturned shape.

The PAF System is an innovative heel cup that offers the stick climbers want without adding pressure on the Achilles tendon.

Pros

  • Aggressive downturn and high asymmetry for all-around face climbing performance.
  • Curved midsole offering maximum support and stability without losing sensitivity.
  • Vibram XS Edge Rubber outsole for excellent grip and traction.
  • DTS Active Rand system for transferring power directly to the big toe.
  • PAF System for heel hooking without adding pressure on the Achilles tendon.

7. Five Ten Men's Anasazi Vcs Climbing Shoe,golden Tan,8.5 M Us

Experience legendary edging performance with the FiveTen Climbing Shoe. The shoe features a Cowdura upper that offers durability and protection for your feet. Dual heel pulls make it easy to put on and take off the shoe. The C4/OnyXX rand provides ultimate friction and maximum sensitivity, making it easy to feel the surface of the rock you're climbing. The dual hook-and-loop closure ensures a snug and secure fit, allowing you to focus on your climb.

The FiveTen Climbing Shoe is versatile and can be used for different types of climbing. It offers excellent performance on both indoor and outdoor climbs. The shoe is perfect for climbers who want a shoe that can handle different types of terrain and conditions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, the FiveTen Climbing Shoe is an excellent choice for your next climb.

Pros

  • Cowdura upper offers durability and protection
  • Dual heel pulls make it easy to put on and take off the shoe
  • C4/OnyXX rand provides ultimate friction and maximum sensitivity
  • Dual hook-and-loop closure ensures a snug and secure fit
  • Versatile and can be used for different types of climbing

8. La Sportiva Men's Futura Climbing Shoe, Blue/yellow, 42

The Speedster climbing shoe boasts of its Patented No-Edge Technology, providing its users with the maximum edging advantage right out of the box. Its P3 technology enables users to crank on overhangs, ensuring a secure grip with every step. The Fast Lacing System from the Solution gives climbers a snug and precise fit that enhances their overall climbing experience. The shoe's excellent sensitivity allows for exceptional control during extremely technical projects, giving climbers a competitive edge in their craft. The Speedster has received numerous accolades, including the Climbing Magazine's Editors' Choice award.

Pros

  • Patented No-Edge Technology enhances edging advantage
  • P3 technology enables users to crank on overhangs
  • Fast Lacing System provides a snug and precise fit
  • Excellent sensitivity for utmost control during technical projects
  • Received Climbing Magazine's Editors' Choice award

9. Adidas Five Ten Kirigami Climbing Shoes Men's, Black, Size 11

The Men's All-day Climbing Shoes are designed to cater to longer routes and beginner climbers. The shoes feature a hook-and-loop closure for easy on and off. The synthetic upper is both soft and durable, providing comfort and long-lasting use. The shoes are equipped with an extended toe rubber that increases toe friction, making it easier to climb. The medium-stiff midsole provides all-purpose climbing support while maintaining sensitivity. Additionally, the shoes use Stealth C4 rubber, offering a time-tested high-friction grip for edging and hard friction.

These shoes are a perfect choice for climbers who want a versatile shoe that can handle longer routes and provides support for all-purpose climbing. The hook-and-loop closure makes it easy to put on and take off the shoes, which is especially helpful during breaks on long routes. The synthetic upper is both soft and durable, ensuring that the shoes are comfortable and long-lasting. The extended toe rubber allows for increased toe friction, which is essential for climbing. The medium-stiff midsole provides support for all-purpose climbing while maintaining sensitivity, allowing the climbers to feel the surface they are climbing. Lastly, the Stealth C4 rubber offers a high-friction grip that helps the climbers when edging and dealing with hard friction.

Pros

  • Hook-and-loop closure for easy on and off
  • Synthetic upper is soft and durable
  • Extended toe rubber for increased toe friction
  • Medium-stiff midsole supports all-purpose climbing while maintaining sensitivity
  • Stealth C4 rubber offers time-tested, high-friction grip for edging and hard friction

10. La Sportiva Futura Women's Climbing Shoe, Jade Green/white, 37.5

The Speedster climbing shoe is equipped with patented No-Edge Technology which provides maximum edging advantage straight away. The P3 technology allows climbers to easily tackle overhangs. Additionally, the Solution's Fast Lacing System ensures a snug fit for precise footholds. This shoe offers excellent sensitivity, making it ideal for technical projects. It has received numerous awards, including the Climbing Magazine Editors' Choice Award.

Pros

  • Patented No-Edge Technology for maximum edging advantage
  • P3 technology for easy overhang climbing
  • Fast Lacing System for a snug, precise fit
  • Excellent sensitivity for technical projects
  • Received Climbing Magazine Editors' Choice Award

Best Climbing Shoes For Edging FAQs

Are there any specific brands or models of climbing shoes that are particularly good for edging?

Yes, there are specific brands and models of climbing shoes that are particularly good for edging. Edging is an important technique in rock climbing where the climber uses the edge of their shoes to gain traction on small footholds. Climbing shoes that are designed with a stiff sole and a pointed toe box are generally better for edging.

Some of the popular climbing shoe brands that are known for their edging capabilities include La Sportiva, Scarpa, and Five Ten. For example, La Sportiva TC Pro and Scarpa Instinct VS are popular models that are designed specifically for edging. These shoes have a stiff sole and a pointed toe box that allows for precise placement on small footholds.

On the other hand, Five Ten Anasazi and Five Ten Rogue VCS are also good options for edging, but they have a softer sole compared to the La Sportiva and Scarpa models. Soft soles provide better sensitivity, which allows the climber to feel the rock better, but they may not be as good for edging on tiny footholds.

In summary, if you are looking for climbing shoes that are particularly good for edging, it is recommended to look for brands and models with a stiff sole and a pointed toe box. La Sportiva, Scarpa, and Five Ten are some of the popular brands that offer such shoes.

How do you choose the right size and fit for climbing shoes that will be used primarily for edging?

When it comes to choosing the right size and fit for climbing shoes that will primarily be used for edging, there are a few important factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to understand that climbing shoes should fit snugly but not be painfully tight. This is because a tight fit will allow for better sensitivity and control when edging, but you don't want to sacrifice comfort for performance.

To find the right size, it's recommended to try on several pairs of shoes and walk around in them for a few minutes to get a sense of how they feel. You should also consider the type of climbing you will be doing, as some shoes are designed for specific types of climbing and may not be suitable for edging.

In terms of fit, you'll want to pay attention to the shape of the shoe, as well as the amount of arch support and heel tension. A shoe with a more aggressive shape will provide better edging performance, but may not be as comfortable for all-day use. Additionally, shoes with a higher level of heel tension can help to increase edging power.

Ultimately, choosing the right size and fit for climbing shoes that will primarily be used for edging requires a bit of trial and error, as well as a good understanding of your own personal preferences and needs. It's always a good idea to talk to other climbers and get recommendations from professionals to help guide your decision.

How does the shape of the toe box affect edging performance in climbing shoes?

The shape of the toe box in climbing shoes plays a critical role in determining the edging performance. Edging is an essential technique used by climbers to maintain balance and secure footholds while climbing. A well-designed toe box with a narrow and pointed shape provides better precision and control while edging. It allows climbers to place their toes accurately onto small edges or footholds, giving them more power and stability. Moreover, a narrow toe box also helps climbers to maintain their balance and control their foot position while standing on tiny edges. On the other hand, a wide and round-shaped toe box can be less effective for edging as it reduces precision and accuracy. It may cause climbers to slip off the edges or lose their balance while climbing. Therefore, choosing the right shape of the toe box in climbing shoes is essential for achieving optimal edging performance, and it depends on the type of climbing and personal preference of the climber.

What are some tips for getting the most out of edging with climbing shoes?

When it comes to edging with climbing shoes, there are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your footwear. First and foremost, make sure that your shoes fit properly. Climbing shoes should fit snugly but not be too tight, as this can cause discomfort and even injury. Additionally, it's important to pay attention to the shape and design of the sole of your shoe. Look for shoes with a flat or slightly downturned toe box and a stiff sole for optimal edging ability. When climbing, focus on using the edge of your shoe to maintain balance and control on the rock face. Take your time and be deliberate with your movements, making small adjustments as needed to maintain your grip. Finally, practice regularly to build strength and hone your technique. With time and dedication, you can become a skilled edger and take your climbing to the next level.

What is the best type of rubber for edging on climbing shoes?

The best type of rubber for edging on climbing shoes is a high-friction rubber with a sticky texture. This rubber is specifically designed to provide maximum grip and traction when climbing on rocks, walls or other surfaces. The most commonly used type of rubber for climbing shoes is Vibram, which is known for its durability, grip, and resistance to wear and tear. Vibram rubber is used by most popular climbing shoe brands, such as La Sportiva, Scarpa, and Five Ten, and is favored by professional climbers around the world. Another type of rubber that is gaining popularity among climbers is Stealth rubber, which is known for its exceptional grip and stickiness on wet or slippery surfaces. Ultimately, the choice of rubber for edging on climbing shoes will depend on personal preference and the type of climbing you do. It's always a good idea to try on different shoes and test out the rubber before making a purchase.

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