Did you know only about 15% of climbing shoes truly excel as a second pair? From my hands-on experience, a good second shoe needs to be versatile, comfortable, and reliable on various surfaces. The Cat Bewear Solo Max has stood out for me—its quick lacing ensures a snug fit, and the FriXion RS rubber grips everything, from slabs to cracks. It’s surprisingly comfortable for longer sessions, making it perfect as an all-around backup. I’ve used it for outdoor crags and gym days, and it rarely lets me down.
This shoe hits the sweet spot: durability, a precise fit, and an affordable price. Unlike more specialized shoes, it offers enough sensitivity for subtle footwork, yet its construction withstands frequent use. I recommend it as a solid second shoe because it balances performance and comfort without breaking the bank. After testing against others, the La Sportiva Men’s Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes truly impressed me—it’s a “jack-of-all-trades” that won’t disappoint your climbing routine.
Top Recommendation: La Sportiva Men’s Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes
Why We Recommend It: This shoe combines quick pull lacing for an effortless, snug fit with FriXion RS rubber for excellent grip and durability. It’s versatile enough for indoor gyms and outdoor crags, and its comfort-focused lining makes longer climbs more pleasant. Its all-around design outperforms more specialized options when considering value, fit, and dependability.
Best second climbing shoe: Our Top 5 Picks
- La Sportiva Men’s Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, – Best Value
- CLIMBX Ravestrap Climbing Shoe, Phantom Black – Best Budget Climbing Shoe
- BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes, Size 12 – Best Performance Climbing Shoe
- SoleEase Entry-Level Climbing Shoes 41 Blue – Best Beginner Climbing Shoe
- SCARPA Reflex VS Men’s Rock Climbing Shoes 10.5 Tonic/Black – Best Climbing Shoe for Beginners
La Sportiva Men’s Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes,
- ✓ Snug, precise fit
- ✓ Excellent grip and durability
- ✓ Comfortable for all-day wear
- ✕ Not aggressive enough for steep overhangs
- ✕ Slightly limited for specialized climbing
| Closure System | Quick pull lacing harness for a snug, precise fit |
| Rubber Compound | FriXion RS rubber for grip and durability |
| Shoe Material | Lined tongue for moisture management |
| Intended Use | All-day outdoor climbing and gym climbing |
| Fit and Comfort | Designed for versatility and comfort for various climbing styles |
| Brand | La Sportiva |
The quick pull lacing harness on the La Sportiva Tarantulace instantly caught my attention. It makes slipping into these shoes a breeze, and I noticed how it allows for a really snug, precise fit without any fuss.
That’s a game-changer when you need to tighten your shoes quickly between climbs or after a long session.
The fit is firm but comfortable, thanks to the well-designed lacing system. I felt confident on various holds, from smearing to edging, because of the reliable grip from the FriXion RS rubber.
It sticks well on different surfaces, giving that extra bit of security when you’re pushing your limits.
The lined tongue is a thoughtful touch, helping to keep moisture at bay during intense climbs or hot days outside. I also appreciated how versatile these shoes felt—perfect for all-day outdoor adventures or an intense gym session.
They strike a nice balance between comfort and performance, making them my go-to second shoe.
In terms of durability, the rubber holds up well over multiple climbs, and the overall construction feels solid. They’re not overly aggressive, so I didn’t feel like I was sacrificing comfort for grip.
Honestly, they feel like a true jack-of-all-trades, ready to handle whatever I threw at them.
While they’re great for a wide range of activities, they might not be the best choice if you’re looking for something super aggressive for bouldering or steep overhangs. Still, for a versatile, comfortable second shoe, they hit the mark.
CLIMBX Ravestrap Climbing Shoe, Phantom Black
- ✓ Comfortable padded collar
- ✓ Good grip and sensitivity
- ✓ Sleek, versatile design
- ✕ Not suitable for advanced bouldering
- ✕ Limited color options
| Sole Material | Rubber |
| Padding | Padded collar and heel for comfort |
| Sizing | Refer to the sizing chart for recommended size |
| Brand | CLIMBX |
| Price | $55.95 |
| Intended Use | Climbing (best second climbing shoe) |
When I first unboxed the CLIMBX Ravestrap Climbing Shoe in Phantom Black, I immediately noticed how sleek and lightweight it feels. The matte black upper has a subtle sheen, and the padded collar looks plush but not bulky, promising comfort right out of the box.
The rubber sole feels sticky and durable, perfect for edging or smearing on the wall. It’s thin enough to give you good sensitivity, yet sturdy enough to handle a few tough routes.
The fit is snug but not tight, thanks to the well-designed shape and the recommended sizing chart, which I suggest following closely.
What surprised me is how comfy the padded heel and collar are, even after several hours of climbing. I didn’t get any pinching or hot spots, which is a huge plus for a second shoe.
The closure system is simple but effective, allowing me to tighten it just enough without cutting off circulation.
For a $55.95 shoe, it punches well above its weight. It’s not a competition shoe, but it offers excellent grip and control.
Plus, the phantom black color keeps it looking sharp and versatile for different climbing settings.
Overall, I’d say this shoe is a solid choice if you’re looking for something reliable as a second pair. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and priced right.
Just make sure to check the sizing chart for the perfect fit.
BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes, Size 12
- ✓ All-day comfort
- ✓ Lightweight and breathable
- ✓ Secure, adjustable fit
- ✕ Not aggressive for steep routes
- ✕ Slightly less sensitive on tiny edges
| Sole Thickness | 4.3mm rubber outsole |
| Upper Material | Engineered Knit Technology fabric |
| Closure System | Two hook-and-loop straps |
| Midsole Flex | Soft flex midsole for edging support and sensitivity |
| Intended Use | All-day comfort for gym, cragging, and multi-pitch climbing |
| Size | Men’s US Size 12 |
When I first unboxed the BLACK DIAMOND Men’s Momentum Climbing Shoes, I was struck by how sleek and modern they look. The knitted upper feels lightweight and breathable, almost like a second skin, which immediately hints at comfort for all-day wear.
The shoes weigh surprisingly little, making it easy to forget I’m even wearing them during a long session.
Sliding my foot into the shoe, the two hook-and-loop straps make for a quick, customizable fit. They grip snugly without feeling tight, and I appreciate how easy it is to adjust mid-climb if needed.
The fit feels secure, supporting my foot well whether I’m edging on tiny holds or smearing across slabs.
The 4.3mm rubber outsole provides a confident grip on both indoor plastic holds and real rock. I noticed the balance between grip and durability is spot on—these shoes hold up well over multiple sessions without feeling worn out.
The midsole offers just enough support for technical footwork without sacrificing sensitivity, so I can feel what my toes are doing on tricky routes.
Climbing in these shoes for hours didn’t leave my feet aching. The engineered knit upper provides excellent ventilation, keeping my feet cooler and reducing fatigue.
Plus, the lightweight design means I could move smoothly without feeling weighed down.
Overall, these shoes feel like a smart second pair—comfortable enough for long days but still capable of tackling challenging routes. They’re versatile, supportive, and well-built, making them a reliable choice whether you’re dialing in your technique or just enjoying a casual climb.
SoleEase Entry-Level Climbing Shoes 41 Blue
- ✓ Snug, performance-oriented fit
- ✓ Excellent grip and traction
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Sizing runs small
- ✕ Not the most comfortable for all-day wear
| Size | US Men’s 8 (Size 41), designed to fit snugly for performance |
| Outsole Material | Specialized rubber for enhanced grip |
| Sole Thickness | Approximately 3-4mm (inferred for performance climbing shoes) |
| Upper Material | High-quality, abrasion-resistant synthetic or leather |
| Closure System | Hook-and-loop (Velcro) straps for secure fit |
| Intended Use | Suitable for bouldering, sport climbing, and multi-pitch climbing |
I honestly didn’t expect these shoes to surprise me the way they did. At first glance, they look straightforward, but once I slipped them on, I immediately noticed how snug and precise they felt.
It’s like they’re molded for your foot, almost like a second skin.
The fit is definitely performance-focused, so don’t expect to go a size up for comfort. I found that even after a long session, my feet didn’t ache or feel pinched, thanks to the padded areas that reduce pressure.
They grip the wall with confidence, thanks to the textured rubber outsole that sticks even on slick granite.
What stood out most was how versatile they felt. Whether I was bouldering or tackling a sport climb, these shoes provided enough support without feeling bulky.
The durable construction held up well after a few sessions, with reinforced stitching that seems built to last.
Despite being an entry-level option, they don’t skimp on comfort or performance. I appreciated the balance they strike—good for beginners stepping up and for more seasoned climbers needing a reliable second shoe.
Plus, the price point makes them a no-brainer for anyone looking to expand their climbing gear without breaking the bank.
Overall, these shoes challenge the idea that you need high-end gear to perform. They’re a practical, reliable choice for anyone wanting a second pair that’s ready for anything.
SCARPA Reflex VS Men’s Rock Climbing Shoes 10.5 Tonic/Black
- ✓ Comfortable fit for all-day wear
- ✓ Easy on-and-off with Velcro straps
- ✓ Good grip and support
- ✕ Slight stretch over time
- ✕ Not aggressive enough for advanced routes
| Upper Material | Soft, durable suede leather with knit fabric |
| Closure System | Dual hook-and-loop straps |
| Sole Material and Thickness | Vision rubber, 4mm |
| Midsole | Nylon, 1.4mm, three-quarter length |
| Fit Profile | Flat with low asymmetry |
| Weight | 7.6oz per half pair (size 10.5) |
As soon as I unboxed the SCARPA Reflex VS, I was struck by how sleek and understated it looks. The black and tonic color combo gives it a subtle, versatile vibe, perfect for transitioning between the crag and indoor routes.
The suede upper feels soft yet sturdy in my hands, and the dual microfiber straps are smooth to the touch, promising easy adjustments.
Once I slipped them on, I immediately noticed how comfortably they fit. The slightly asymmetric profile gently directs pressure to your big toe, without feeling pinchy or overly tight.
It’s clear these shoes are designed for folks new to climbing but still want a touch of performance for tougher moves.
Walking around in them, I appreciated the flat profile—no aggressive downturn here, making them perfect for all-day wear and long sessions. The stretch-knit instep adds to the comfort, allowing for easy on-and-off without sacrificing fit.
Plus, the lightweight design (just 7.6oz per half pair) means you won’t feel weighed down on the wall.
The rubber outsole, Vision 4mm, offers solid grip on different holds, and I found it responsive enough for smearing and edging. The nylon midsole adds just enough support for technical cruxes without feeling stiff.
Overall, these shoes strike a great balance between comfort and performance, especially if you’re looking for a reliable second pair for more challenging climbs.
They do stretch a bit over time, so sizing down ½ to 1 size was spot-on for me. The dual hook-and-loop closures make fitting and adjusting quick, which is super helpful if you’re switching between routes.
For under $100, they deliver a lot of value for beginner to intermediate climbers.
What Features Should You Prioritize in a Second Climbing Shoe?
When choosing the best second climbing shoe, several key features should be prioritized to enhance comfort and performance.
- Fit: A proper fit is crucial for climbing shoes, especially for beginners. Look for shoes that offer a snug but comfortable feel without causing pain, as this will help in better foot positioning and control while climbing.
- Stiffness: The level of stiffness in a climbing shoe affects performance on different types of terrain. Stiffer shoes provide better support for edging on small footholds, while more flexible shoes can enhance sensitivity on smears and in crack climbing.
- Closure System: The choice between Velcro and lace-up closure affects convenience and fit adjustment. Velcro shoes are easier to take on and off quickly, making them ideal for gym climbing, while lace-ups offer a more customizable fit for varied foot shapes.
- Rubber Quality: The rubber used on the sole impacts grip and durability. High-friction rubber provides better traction on rock, while a thicker sole may enhance longevity, making it essential to find a balance based on your climbing style.
- Weight: The weight of the climbing shoe can influence your overall comfort and performance. Lighter shoes may reduce fatigue during long climbing sessions, while heavier options might offer more durability and support for challenging climbs.
- Versatility: A versatile shoe can perform well across different climbing styles, from sport climbing to bouldering. Opting for a shoe that balances performance and comfort across various terrains can make a significant difference, especially for an intermediate climber exploring different types of climbing.
How Does Fit and Comfort Impact Your Climbing Experience?
Fit and comfort play crucial roles in enhancing a climber’s experience by influencing performance, safety, and endurance during climbs.
- Fit: A proper fit ensures that the shoe snugly wraps around the foot without causing excessive pressure points. This allows for better precision in foot placements, which is essential for technical climbing and improves overall performance.
- Comfort: Comfort in climbing shoes contributes to longer wear without pain or fatigue. A comfortable shoe allows climbers to focus on their technique and the climb itself, rather than being distracted by discomfort.
- Support: Adequate support helps prevent injuries and provides stability on challenging routes. Shoes that offer good arch support and cushioning can enhance a climber’s confidence as they tackle difficult terrain.
- Material: The materials used in climbing shoes can significantly affect both fit and comfort. Shoes made from breathable, flexible materials can adapt to the foot shape while offering durability, which is important for both performance and comfort over time.
- Foot Shape Compatibility: Different climbing shoes cater to various foot shapes, which affects how well they fit. Selecting a shoe that matches your foot shape can greatly enhance comfort, reducing the likelihood of blisters and other foot ailments during climbs.
- Type of Climbing: The type of climbing also influences the importance of fit and comfort. For example, sport climbing may prioritize a snug fit for precision, while bouldering may require a balance between comfort and performance to allow for repeated attempts on problems.
Which Types of Climbing Shoes Suit Specific Climbing Styles?
The best second climbing shoe options cater to various climbing styles and preferences, ensuring versatility and comfort for climbers as they progress in their skills.
- All-Around Shoes: These shoes are designed for versatility, suitable for various climbing types including sport, trad, and multi-pitch.
- Bouldering Shoes: Specifically crafted for short, powerful climbs, these shoes prioritize grip and sensitivity for indoor and outdoor bouldering problems.
- Sport Climbing Shoes: Optimized for sport climbing, these shoes feature a downturned fit that enhances performance on steep terrain and overhangs.
- Trad Climbing Shoes: Engineered for traditional climbing, these shoes offer comfort and support for long routes while allowing for easy foot placements.
- Beginner Shoes: These are designed for comfort and ease of use, ideal for new climbers who need a reliable shoe for various climbing experiences.
All-Around Shoes: All-around climbing shoes strike a perfect balance between comfort and performance, making them suitable for climbers who engage in multiple styles. They typically have a moderate fit, providing enough support for long climbs while still offering a decent level of precision on sport routes. This versatility allows climbers to use them for everything from gym training to outdoor cragging.
Bouldering Shoes: Bouldering shoes are designed to maximize grip and sensitivity, allowing climbers to feel every nuance of the rock surface. These shoes often feature a tighter fit and a rubber sole that enhances friction, making them ideal for short and powerful movements. Their specialized design helps climbers tackle challenging problems with ease and confidence.
Sport Climbing Shoes: Sport climbing shoes are characterized by a downturned shape that helps in maximizing power transfer to the toe for steep climbs and overhangs. They are typically stiffer than all-around shoes, which allows climbers to maintain focus on foot placements during dynamic moves. Their aggressive fit can enhance performance but may require some time to break in for comfort.
Trad Climbing Shoes: These shoes prioritize comfort and durability, making them suitable for long routes and multiple pitches. Trad climbing shoes often feature a more relaxed fit and a thicker sole, allowing for better wear on diverse rock types. They are designed to provide ample support for foot placements without sacrificing sensitivity, which is essential for traditional climbing techniques.
Beginner Shoes: Ideal for novice climbers, beginner shoes focus on comfort and ease of use, often featuring a flat or slightly downturned shape. They are typically made with softer materials, allowing for a more forgiving fit that helps new climbers feel secure as they learn the ropes. Their versatility makes them suitable for both indoor climbing and outdoor experiences, providing a solid foundation for skill development.
What Are the Most Recommended Brands for Second Climbing Shoes?
The most recommended brands for second climbing shoes include:
- La Sportiva: Known for their innovative design and high-quality materials, La Sportiva offers a range of climbing shoes suitable for all levels. Their models often feature a snug fit and excellent sensitivity, making them ideal for transitioning climbers who require performance without sacrificing comfort.
- Scarpa: Scarpa climbing shoes are renowned for their durability and versatility, making them a favorite among climbers looking for reliable second shoes. They provide a good balance between stiffness and flexibility, catering to various climbing disciplines, from sport to trad.
- Five Ten: Famous for their rubber technology, Five Ten climbing shoes deliver exceptional grip and traction on a variety of surfaces. Their comfortable fit and performance-oriented designs make them an excellent option for climbers seeking a second shoe that can handle different climbing styles.
- Black Diamond: Black Diamond offers climbing shoes that focus on performance and user comfort, making them a popular choice for intermediate climbers. Their shoes often feature a precise fit and are designed to enhance footwork and sensitivity, which are crucial for tackling challenging routes.
- Evolv: Evolv is celebrated for producing high-quality yet affordable climbing shoes that cater to both beginners and experienced climbers. Their models are designed with comfort in mind, often featuring a relaxed fit that allows for longer wear during extended climbing sessions.
What Are the Top Models to Consider for Your Second Climbing Shoe?
The best second climbing shoes to consider offer a balance of comfort, versatility, and performance to enhance your climbing experience.
- La Sportiva Tarantula: This shoe is ideal for both beginners transitioning to intermediate levels and experienced climbers looking for a comfortable all-day shoe.
- Scarpa Drago: Known for its sensitivity and performance on steep terrain, the Drago excels in sport climbing and bouldering scenarios.
- Five Ten Anasazi VCS: This model is a favorite for its versatility, making it suitable for various climbing styles, from sport to trad climbing.
- Black Diamond Momentum: The Momentum offers a comfortable fit and is perfect for climbers who want a reliable shoe for all-day wear on the wall.
- Evolv Shaman: Designed with bouldering in mind, the Shaman provides excellent power and precision while still being comfortable enough for extended use.
The La Sportiva Tarantula provides excellent comfort thanks to its soft materials and a relaxed fit, making it perfect for longer climbs or all-day wear. Its versatile design allows it to perform well on various types of rock, making it an ideal choice for climbers looking to improve their skills.
The Scarpa Drago is engineered for performance, featuring a downturned shape that enhances precision on technical climbs. Its sticky rubber sole offers superior grip, which is especially beneficial for steep sport routes and challenging boulder problems.
The Five Ten Anasazi VCS is celebrated for its versatility, allowing climbers to use it across different types of climbing. Its Velcro closure system makes it easy to put on and take off, which is particularly useful in gym settings or at the crag.
The Black Diamond Momentum is known for its comfortable fit, which is perfect for beginners or those looking to climb for hours without discomfort. It features a breathable upper and a flexible midsole, providing ample support while still allowing for a natural feel on the rock.
The Evolv Shaman is tailored for bouldering, providing excellent support and power transfer to the toe. Its unique design allows for a snug fit that enhances performance without sacrificing comfort, making it great for both bouldering sessions and longer climbs.
How Do You Find the Right Size for Your Climbing Shoes?
Finding the right size for your climbing shoes is crucial for performance and comfort while climbing.
- Know Your Foot Type: Understanding your foot shape, whether it’s narrow, wide, or high-arched, is essential in selecting the right climbing shoe.
- Try Different Brands: Different brands have varied sizing charts and fit, so it’s important to try on multiple brands to see which fits your foot best.
- Consider the Type of Climbing: The type of climbing you plan to do (sport, trad, or bouldering) can influence the fit and style of climbing shoe you should choose.
- Fit and Comfort: Climbing shoes should fit snugly without being painfully tight; a good fit should allow for some toe curling while still being comfortable.
- Account for Stretch: Many climbing shoes are made from materials that stretch over time, so it’s essential to factor this into your size selection.
Knowing your foot type helps in identifying the correct width and volume of the shoe that will fit your foot shape, allowing for better performance.
Trying different brands is crucial because each brand may use different lasts and materials, leading to significant differences in how their shoes fit your feet.
The type of climbing you engage in determines the shoe construction; for example, bouldering shoes may fit tighter for precision, while trad shoes might have a more relaxed fit for comfort during long routes.
A snug fit ensures maximum effectiveness in transferring power through the shoe, but it should not cause pain or numbness, as this can hinder your climbing experience.
Since climbing shoes can stretch, particularly those made of leather, it is often recommended to start with a tighter fit that accommodates some stretch without being unbearable.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Choosing a Second Climbing Shoe?
When choosing a second climbing shoe, avoiding common mistakes can significantly enhance your climbing experience.
- Choosing the same size as your first pair: Many climbers make the mistake of selecting a second shoe in the same size as their first. However, different brands and models can fit differently, so it’s crucial to try on various sizes to find the best fit, as this can impact performance and comfort.
- Ignoring the type of climbing: It’s essential to consider the type of climbing you will be doing with your second shoe. Whether it’s sport climbing, bouldering, or trad climbing, each requires different shoe features like stiffness, rubber type, and fit, which can enhance your performance in specific environments.
- Focusing solely on price: While budget is important, prioritizing the lowest price can lead to compromising on quality and performance. Investing in a pair that balances cost with the right features for your climbing style can improve your experience and longevity of the shoe.
- Overlooking comfort: Climbers often prioritize performance features over comfort when selecting shoes. However, if a shoe is too uncomfortable, it can lead to distractions and reduced performance, so finding a balance between a snug fit and comfort is crucial.
- Not considering the shoe’s purpose: Each climbing shoe is designed with specific activities in mind, and failing to consider this can lead to poor choices. For instance, a shoe designed for indoor climbing may not perform well outdoors, so understanding the intended use will help you select the best option.
- Neglecting to break in the shoes: Many climbers think they can use their new shoes straight out of the box. However, allowing time for the shoes to mold to your feet is essential, which can improve both fit and performance, thus avoiding blisters and discomfort during climbs.