The Best Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet of 2024
Rock climbing – it’s more than just an adrenaline-pumping activity, it’s a test of wits, endurance, and precision. For many, scaling vertical terrains offers a delightful escape from the daily grind (who said hanging by a cliff can’t be therapeutic?). However, if you’ve got wider feet, finding the perfect climbing shoe that merges comfort with performance can be a bit of a cliffhanger. Fret not! Dive into our meticulously curated list of the best climbing shoes for wide feet in 2023. From edging on tiny holds to comfortable smearing, we’ve got your feet covered. And for a deep dive, don’t forget to consult our detailed comparison table and buying advice following the list. Strap in, and let’s ascend together!”
Our Top Picks for Best Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet
Best Overall
1. Scarpa Veloce Climbing Shoes
See the Men’s Scarpa Veloce Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s Scarpa Veloce Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 3.5 oz.
Material: High-quality synthetic leather
Sole: Sticky Vibram XS Edge rubber
Profile: Moderately aggressive
What we truly appreciate: Exceptional comfort for wider feet, combined with top-notch performance.
Where it might falter: Might not be the best for extremely technical and overhanging routes.
For climbers with broader feet searching for that perfect fit, the Scarpa Veloce Climbing Shoes emerge as a top contender. Drawing on our hands-on experience, we’ve found that these shoes provide a unique blend of comfort and functionality. It’s not every day that you come across a climbing shoe designed especially for wider foot profiles (we’re talking a generously sized toe box without compromising grip).
Crafted with high-quality synthetic leather, these shoes ensure breathability and minimize stretch over time. The sticky Vibram XS Edge rubber sole gives it a stellar grip on a range of surfaces, from slippery smears to tiny footholds. While the moderate aggression of the Veloce is versatile for various climbing scenarios, from bouldering to sport climbs, they might not be the ultimate choice for extremely technical routes. But don’t get us wrong, for the vast majority of your climbs, especially if you’re venturing out for longer durations, the Scarpa Veloce promises to be a trusted companion.
From the countless models we’ve worn, tested, and climbed in, the Veloce’s dedication to climbers with wider feet is evident. And in an industry where finding such specialized designs can be a bit of a crux, this shoe is a breath of fresh air.
Best Aggressive Outdoor
2. evolv Shaman Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz.
Material: Synthetic upper with microfiber lining
Sole: TRAX high friction rubber
Profile: Moderately aggressive with a unique “Love Bump” midsole
What we’re totally smitten with: The evolutionary design tailored for those with wider feet.
Where it could climb a tad higher: Might be overkill for basic gym climbs.
Ah, the evolv Shaman Climbing Shoes! In our ever-ongoing quest to find climbing shoes for wider feet, these beauties have frequently graced our climbing sessions. A brainchild of legendary climber Chris Sharma, the Shaman has taken climbing footwear to a new dimension, especially for those with a little more breadth to their step.
Constructed with a synthetic upper, the shoe manages to hug your foot snugly while the microfiber lining ensures added comfort (a relief for longer climbs!). The TRAX high friction rubber sole, with its phenomenal grip, helps in navigating those tricky overhangs with relative ease. But what truly stands out for us is the “Love Bump” midsole, ingeniously designed to fill the dead space under your toes for an optimized fit. Perfect for those tricky edging moves!
However, as with all climbing shoes, it’s not a one-size-fits-all affair. While the Shaman is a force to reckon with on challenging outdoor projects, those looking for a casual gym shoe might find it a tad more aggressive than necessary.
Years and countless climbs later, we can attest to the Shaman’s unparalleled prowess, particularly for climbers blessed with wide feet. Not only does it perform spectacularly, but it’s also an innovation in comfort and precision. Dive deeper into climbing with this gem, and you won’t look back.
See the Men’s evolv Shaman Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s evolv Shaman Climbing Shoes
Best Grip
3. La Sportiva Skwama Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz.
Material: Leather/Synthetic combination
Sole: Vibram XS Grip2
Profile: Aggressive
What we’re smitten with: The perfect harmony of precision and comfort tailored for wider foot dimensions.
Areas for improvement: Durability in extreme wear and tear conditions, especially in rough terrains.
Broad-footed climbers, rejoice! The La Sportiva Skwama Climbing Shoes have landed, and they are every bit the solution to our long-standing width woes. In our hands-on adventures scaling various terrains, these shoes consistently demonstrated an edge that combined fit, function, and flexibility. The Skwama’s are designed not just to fit but to embrace wider feet (think snug yet spacious, especially in the toe box).
A combination of leather and synthetic materials promises a balance of stretch and stability, ensuring the shoes mold well to your feet without losing their shape over extensive use. The Vibram XS Grip2 sole further amplifies the shoe’s performance, ensuring solid holds even on slippery surfaces. It’s worth noting, though, that while the Skwama shines in most conditions, they might show wear a tad quicker if frequently used on rough terrains.
Our climbs have been dotted with various shoe trials, and we’ve found the La Sportiva Skwama to be among the elite, especially for our wide-footed comrades. In a sport where comfort can dictate performance, having a shoe that acknowledges and addresses wider foot profiles is a significant leap forward.
See the Men’s La Sportiva Skwama Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s La Sportiva Skwama Climbing Shoes
Most Comfortable
4. Scarpa Instinct VS Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 1.8 oz.
Material: Microsuede
Sole: Vibram XS Edge
Profile: Aggressive yet adaptable
What we’re thoroughly impressed by: The seamless blend of sensitivity, power, and a forgiving fit for those blessed with wider feet.
Room for refinement: Slightly steeper in price, and might not be the top choice for super technical toe-hooking.
Wider-footed climbers often face the conundrum of finding shoes that don’t suffocate their feet, yet offer precision. Enter the Scarpa Instinct VS Climbing Shoes. In our journey scaling crags and tackling boulders, this particular shoe often felt like a godsend. It’s as if Scarpa took the nuances of a wider foot, and crafted a shoe that offers a secure yet non-restrictive fit (yes, your toes can breathe and maneuver with ease).
The choice of Microsuede ensures that while the shoe has a certain stretch quality, it doesn’t compromise on its form with repeated use. The Vibram XS Edge sole promises unparalleled grip, especially on those precarious footholds where you’d appreciate a little extra bite. That said, while the Instinct VS showcases an impressive roster of features, it might be slightly overshadowed when it comes to intricate toe-hooking maneuvers by some other specialist shoes in the market.
Having scaled walls with countless shoe variants, the Scarpa Instinct VS is a notable standout, especially for climbers who’ve often felt sidelined due to their foot width. In a climbing universe teeming with choices, this shoe feels like a nod to inclusivity, understanding, and performance.
See the Men’s Scarpa Instinct VS Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s Scarpa Instinct VS Climbing Shoes
Longest Lasting
5. Butora Acro (Wide Fit) Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 2.4 oz.
Material: Soft synthetic and natural leather
Sole: Neo Fuse sticky rubber
Profile: Aggressive downturn
What has our heart racing: Its impeccable fit for wide feet and superb grip that redefines vertical adventures.
Where it could step up: Might require a slightly longer break-in period compared to some competitors.
Broad-footed climbers, the search might just be over. The Butora Acro (Wide Fit) Climbing Shoes have made their mark in our climbing escapades, emerging as a true ally for those with a more ample footprint. It’s a rarity to find a shoe that molds to a wider foot without compromising on the precision and performance – and the Acro does just that. It’s tailored, it’s tenacious, and it totally understands the dynamics of a wider foot (so say goodbye to those pesky pressure points).
Crafted with a blend of soft synthetic and natural leather, the shoe promises a snug fit that’s flexible yet form-retaining. The Neo Fuse sticky rubber sole is like your trusty spotter, ensuring you have the grip when you need it the most. A minor trade-off, though, is the break-in period, which might take a tad longer than some other shoes on the rack. But once past that, the Acro becomes an extension of your foot.
Our climbs, be it boulders or big walls, have been interspersed with myriad shoe tests. Among them, the Butora Acro stands out, not just as a shoe, but as a testament to the fact that performance and comfort can coexist, even for those with wider feet.
See the Men’s Butora Acro (Wide Fit) Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s Butora Acro (Wide Fit) Climbing Shoes
Best of the Rest
6. Scarpa Helix Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 0.6 oz.
Material: Suede leather upper
Sole: Vibram XS Edge
Profile: Flat, for comfort and prolonged wear
What’s making us rave: The blend of classic design with a fit that caters wonderfully to the wide-footed climber.
Areas of contention: Might not be aggressive enough for advanced climbers tackling overhanging routes.
For those who’ve felt the pinch, both literally and figuratively, of finding climbing shoes tailored for wider feet, Scarpa offers a beacon of hope with their Helix Climbing Shoes. On our climbing ventures, these shoes have been nothing short of revelatory. They embrace the foot, rather than constrict it, offering a liberating climbing experience that combines the tradition of Scarpa’s iconic design with the modern demands of today’s climbers (a nod to both past and present).
With its suede leather upper, the Helix promises durability while retaining a level of pliability. The Vibram XS Edge sole, a hallmark of reliable grip, ensures you’re planted firm even on those sketchy smears and tiny edges. While its flat profile might seem old-school to some, it’s a deliberate choice, emphasizing hours of comfort for multi-pitch routes or extensive gym sessions. This does mean, however, that those looking to conquer challenging overhangs might crave something with a more aggressive downturn.
Having danced on walls with numerous climbing shoes strapped on, the Scarpa Helix strikes a harmonious chord of nostalgia, comfort, and performance.
See the Men’s Scarpa Helix Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s Scarpa Helix Climbing Shoes
7. La Sportiva Miura VS Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 2.3 oz.
Material: Leather with Dentex lining
Sole: Vibram XS Edge
Profile: Slightly downturned for precision on varied terrain
What caught our eye: The blend of technical finesse, comfort, and adaptability for the wide-footed climber.
Minor snags: Break-in period might be longer for some, and the shoe can be a touch warm in hotter conditions.
In the sphere of climbing shoes, certain names elicit respect. The La Sportiva Miura VS is one such name. It’s a shoe that’s managed to win the affection of climbers globally and, in its current iteration, doesn’t forget those with a wider footprint. Our climbing sessions, ranging from cruxy boulder problems to extended trad routes, have been enhanced with the Miura VS – making us realize why they’ve garnered such a legendary reputation (and it’s not just the hype).
The leather construction, coupled with the Dentex lining, gives the Miura VS its distinctive snug fit. While it ensures a close wrap around the foot, it does so without compromising the breadth that wider feet require. The Vibram XS Edge sole holds its own on a variety of terrains, from tiny chips to slippery volumes, ensuring trust with every step. The slightly downturned profile makes it versatile, but it does come with a caveat. New users might need a bit of time for the shoe to conform perfectly to their feet. Additionally, for those climbing in warmer conditions, the shoe might feel a tad warm.
Having scaled many a challenging route in the La Sportiva Miura VS, it’s clear to us: this is a shoe that bridges the gap between high performance and the needs of climbers with wider feet. See the Men’s La Sportiva Miura VS Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s La Sportiva Miura VS Climbing Shoes
8. La Sportiva Tarantula Climbing Shoes
Weight: 14.6 oz.
Material: Unlined leather
Sole: FriXion RS rubber
Profile: Flat for all-day comfort and full-contact support
What we absolutely adore: Its beginner-friendly nature and a welcoming fit for wider feet.
What could be tweaked: The shoe might not be the go-to for more advanced technical climbs.
When navigating the realm of climbing footwear, newcomers often feel overwhelmed, especially those blessed with wider feet. Enter the La Sportiva Tarantula Climbing Shoes – our personal savior for those looking for a gentle introduction without sidelining comfort or fit. Over the seasons, we’ve slipped these on for numerous climbs, both indoors and out, realizing how this model simplifies the learning curve.
The Tarantula’s unlined leather construction offers that much-needed stretch, accommodating feet that need that extra breadth. But it’s the FriXion RS rubber sole that truly shines, ensuring robust grip on smears and edging alike. The flat profile is a clear nod to beginners and intermediate climbers, allowing extended wear without the usual pinch and discomfort associated with aggressive shoes. However, if you’re aiming for more advanced and technical ascents, the Tarantula might not be your first pick, but it remains a reliable companion for foundational climbs.
Having journeyed through a variety of climbing experiences with the Tarantula, its appeal is evident. It’s the ideal blend of beginner-friendly design, tailored to accommodate wider feet.
See the Men’s La Sportiva Tarantula Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s La Sportiva Tarantula Climbing Shoes
9. La Sportiva Solution Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 1 oz.
Material: Leather upper with Lorica® lacing harness
Sole: Vibram® XS Grip2 Profile: Highly aggressive downturned shape
What sets our hearts racing: The unmatched precision and adaptability to varied foot shapes.
A small hitch in our climb: Might be a tad aggressive for beginners.
Ah, the iconic La Sportiva Solution Climbing Shoes. When it comes to versatility and adaptability to different foot shapes, especially the wider variety, we’ve found these to be among the top contenders. Having rigorously tested a multitude of climbing shoes over the years, the Solution consistently impresses with its blend of performance and comfort.
Fashioned from a supple leather upper, this shoe molds beautifully to the contours of your foot, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit. Combined with the Lorica® lacing harness, it guarantees precision and adaptability, especially helpful for those with a wider footprint. The Vibram® XS Grip2 sole is another gem – offering tenacious grip and sensitivity, making those challenging overhangs and tiny footholds feel like a walk in the park.
That said, it’s not all roses and sunshine. The highly aggressive downturned profile, while perfect for advanced climbers seeking precision on demanding routes, might feel a bit much for those just starting out on their climbing journey.
After extensive climbs and numerous pitches, we can confidently say the La Sportiva Solution is a powerhouse for climbers with wider feet. While it’s an absolute dream for experienced climbers, newcomers might want to ease into it. But once you do, the “solution” to your climbing woes is right here.
See the Men’s La Sportiva Solution Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s La Sportiva Solution Climbing Shoes
10. Butora Gomi (Wide Fit) Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz.
Material: Synthetic upper with triple fork webbing
Sole: Neo Fuse sticky rubber Profile: Moderate downturn
The highs we love: Superior comfort combined with exceptional grip.
The occasional snag: Slightly longer break-in period than some competitors.
As someone deeply passionate about climbing, finding the right shoe, especially for wider feet, can be a bit of an uphill task. But with the Butora Gomi (Wide Fit), the climb just got a whole lot smoother. After putting it through its paces in a range of environments, it’s clear to us that this shoe is a game-changer.
Constructed with a synthetic upper and enhanced by the triple fork webbing, the shoe ensures a customizable fit for the climber. This ensures that those with broader feet won’t feel like they’re trying to stuff their foot into a shoe that wasn’t designed for them. The moderate downturn provides the perfect balance, allowing for precision on tinier holds while ensuring enough comfort for longer climbs.
What really catches our attention is the Neo Fuse sticky rubber sole. Whether it’s a slippery smearing section or an aggressive toe-hook, the Gomi stands out with its gripping prowess. And though we’re smitten, it’s only fair to mention that some of our team members found there’s a bit of a break-in period. But trust us, once you’re past that phase, it’s like the shoe melds with your foot.
In conclusion, for those on the lookout for the best climbing shoes tailored for wider feet, the Butora Gomi (Wide Fit) is a formidable contender. It offers the right blend of performance, comfort, and durability, making it a favorite among many in the climbing community.
See the Men’s Butora Gomi (Wide Fit) Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s Butora Gomi (Wide Fit) Climbing Shoes
11. La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 3 oz.
Material: Leather/synthetic blend
Sole: FriXion RS rubber
Profile: Flat last for all-day comfort
The highs we love: Incredible versatility and unbeatable comfort.
The occasional snag: May stretch slightly over time due to leather components.
Navigating the realm of climbing shoes can often feel as intricate as deciphering a challenging route on the boulder. After testing countless models, it’s refreshing to come across the La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder Climbing Shoes – especially for those with wider feet.
A unique blend of leather and synthetic materials has been used to craft the upper of this shoe, offering both durability and a comfortable, adaptive fit. The flat profile, combined with a softer midsole, is tailored specifically for those longer climbs, ensuring your feet remain fatigue-free.
The FriXion RS rubber sole was a stand-out during our tests. It promises consistent and reliable grip across varied terrains, whether you’re tackling slab routes or overhangs. That said, climbers need to be aware that the natural leather in the shoe means it may stretch a tad over time. It’s a minor hiccup, and going half a size down can usually solve the issue.
In wrapping up, the La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder Climbing Shoes genuinely stand out as an excellent pick for climbers with wider feet. They strike a harmonious balance between performance, comfort, and price, ensuring you get excellent value for your money.
See the Men’s La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s La Sportiva Tarantula Boulder Climbing Shoes
12. Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoes
Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz.
Material: Knit upper
Sole: NeoFriction rubber
Profile: Moderate curve for technical precision
The highs we love: Excellent breathability and snug fit.
The occasional snag: Might take a session or two to break in.
Climbing aficionados, when we think of Black Diamond, we often conjure images of quality gear and unparalleled performance. Continuing the legacy, the Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoes, having been put through the wringer in a variety of settings (both indoors and out), emerge as a top contender for those with wider feet.
The shoe’s knit upper is its superstar feature, providing exceptional breathability. This ensures that even in the sweatiest of sessions, your feet remain relatively cool. The fit is snug, comfortably embracing wider feet, giving you the confidence to make those tricky moves.
With its NeoFriction rubber sole, the grip is commendable, sticking well on both volumes and tiny edges. The moderate curve profile means they’re adaptable – they’ll work for beginners but also serve the needs of more experienced climbers venturing into technical climbs.
One small hiccup we noticed during our test sessions was that these shoes might take a climb or two to truly mold to the foot and break in. But, patience is a virtue, and the subsequent fit is well worth the initial snugness.
All in all, the Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoes shine as a stellar pick for climbers, especially those blessed with wider feet. It beautifully marries performance with comfort, and at its price point, it’s an undeniable steal.
See the Men’s Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s Black Diamond Momentum Climbing Shoes
13. TENAYA Mundaka Climbing Shoes
Weight: 0 lb. 14 oz.
Material: Microfiber and leather upper
Sole: Vibram XS Grip 3.5mm
Profile: Aggressive downturn for technical precision
The features we rave about: Sensitivity and adaptability.
Minor concerns: Requires a bit of a break-in period.
For those in the climbing community, the name TENAYA often evokes a sense of respect. This admiration isn’t unfounded. Having thoroughly tested the TENAYA Mundaka Climbing Shoes in a mix of conditions, from bouldering problems to overhanging sport routes, we can confidently assert that they live up to the hype.
Firstly, the material combination of microfiber and leather in the upper provides an ideal blend of comfort and durability. It snugly wraps around the foot, offering a near-custom fit for various foot shapes.
Where the Mundaka truly excels, however, is in its unparalleled sensitivity. The Vibram XS Grip sole, combined with the shoe’s aggressive downturn, offers exceptional feedback from the rock or wall. This means you can trust those tiny footholds and smears that other shoes might falter on.
That said, we’ve found a minor hiccup. The Mundaka does require a session or two to truly break in. But, like with any great climbing shoe, the initial snugness morphs into a form-fitted feel that enhances performance and comfort.
While there’s a brief adjustment period, the subsequent benefits – from the shoe’s sensitivity to its overall adaptability – make it a worthy investment.
See the Men’s TENAYA Mundaka Climbing Shoes
See the Women’s TENAYA Mundaka Climbing Shoes
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Buying Advice: Best Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet
How can I tell if I need climbing shoes for wide feet?
Identifying the need for wide-fit climbing shoes often starts with regular climbing shoes feeling uncomfortably tight around the width of your foot, even when the length is right. Those with a broader forefoot or a flatter arch typically benefit from wide-fit models. Familiar brands like La Sportiva, Scarpa, and Five Ten provide specific designs for various foot shapes, so it’s crucial to understand your foot’s dimensions.
Is the fit for climbing shoes different from regular shoes?
Absolutely. While your regular shoes might have a comfortable, roomy fit, climbing shoes are designed to be snug. They should envelop your feet to give you maximum sensitivity and precision on the rock. Historically, I would have advised opting for a size down for that glove-like fit. However, with advancements in shoe design, many brands offer accurate sizing charts. When considering wide feet, the width becomes even more vital, and it’s not just about upsizing.
What brands are known for wider climbing shoe models?
Several brands cater to climbers with wide feet. Butora, for instance, is often lauded for its accommodating fit. Likewise, certain models from Evolv, like the Shaman, are known for their wider design. Remember, each brand might vary in fit, so it’s always recommended to try before you buy. We’re firmly in the camp that believes in the importance of testing shoes in person, especially for wide-footed climbers.
Does the type of climbing I do influence the shoe I should buy?
You might as well ask about the chicken or the egg – it’s a classic climber’s debate! The type of climbing indeed impacts your choice. Bouldering might require a more aggressive shoe with a downturned shape for overhangs, while trad climbing often demands flatter, more comfortable shoes for long multi-pitch routes. For wide-footed climbers, finding an aggressive shoe that’s also comfortable can be a challenge, but brands like Tenaya and Scarpa have been bridging this gap efficiently.
How often should I replace my climbing shoes?
For those with wide feet, the shoe’s material is crucial. Leather shoes tend to stretch more than synthetic ones. So, if you’ve got a leather climbing shoe, expect it to expand and potentially become more comfortable over time. On the flip side, this also means they might wear out and lose their shape faster, especially if used frequently. Generally, with regular climbing, shoes might need replacement every 6-12 months. But always keep an eye on the sole and the edge – if they’re worn out, it’s time for a new pair!
In conclusion, the quest for the perfect wide-fit climbing shoe can be daunting. However, with the vast array of options available today, finding that perfect blend of comfort and performance is entirely within reach. Happy climbing!
Other Expert Takes on Climbing Shoes
Drawing upon the rich tapestry of knowledge from Run Climb Explore’s gear testing squad and leveraging our combined decades of experience in the climbing world, we’ve put together our top picks for climbing shoes. But, in the spirit of thoroughness and diverse perspectives, we also encourage you to dive into Gear Lab’s “The 7 Best Climbing Shoes of 2023” and Climbing Mag’s “The Best Climbing Shoes of 2023” Dive deep, explore different takes, and find that perfect pair that resonates with your climbing soul.
