Best Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet – Reviews & Buying Guide

As a child, I was very overweight and one of the laziest people you were likely to meet. People used to find it weird because I came from an athletic family. My mom and dad were sprinters and my older sister was a climber. My sister and I never really got along, to be honest, we were just two different people.

Climbing is how my sister and I became closer over the years. I used to “borrow” her climbing shoes and run around our backyard in them. This obviously made her so angry because of how fragile they are, but she did ask me to go climb with her at the gym one day. I did and the next day, we bought me my own pair of climbing shoes. I’ve always had wider feet just like my sister, so we needed some options for wider feet.

There are more options out there for wide feet these days, so I thought I would compile a list of the best climbing shoes I have come across since I was a teenager. I hope that it makes your life so much easier.

Best Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet — Top 10 Reviews

01 La Sportiva Men’s TarantuLace (Best Climbing Shoes for Men)

Designed to help climbers smear, hook, and edge, this pair is great for the outdoors. They can also be used indoors in the gym. The aggressive heel rand is made of rubber for breathability and comfort. The low asymmetry build allows climbers to find purchase on edges without discomfort or cramping.

The breathability is aided by the lined tongue which controls moisture. The synthetic layer overlay adds just enough support as well. The unlined leather upper is also very comfortable and soft. These high quality materials make the TarantuL durable and stable.

The quick-pull lacing harness makes regulating of the inner volumes precise. This helps it to wrap around the foot snuggly for good support, comfort, and fit. It is also more convenient to have a quick-pull lacing harness that you don’t need to tie over and over again. Others on this list have slip-on or strap-on designs.

The durable Frixion rs rubber gives good grip and friction on climbing trails. We did not slip at all when testing the product. It remains firm after use to ensure that you always have an aggressive grip. This is one of the more expensive options on our list and it shows in its high-quality performance.

They fit our feet well after about 4 to 5 uses outdoors. We also used them indoors and they work well for both. They fit so well that we forgot we were wearing them at some points during the climb.

Specifications

Pros

• Designed for wide feet
• Breathable
• Sticky soles
• Quick pull laces
• Durable rubber

Cons

• Pricier

Our Verdict

This design is great for both indoor and outdoor climbs. It has a great fit and the sticky soles reduces the risk of slipping. The curve of these shoes allows you to grip rock with your foot letting you climb safely and comfortably.

We recommend that beginner and intermediate climbers buy this product. The versatile size chart gives you the chance to pick out the perfect fit for you. It might cost a little more than some other brands, but quality is very important with La Sportiva.

02 Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoes (Great Value for Money)

If you are a beginner, this should be one of your first choices of climbing gear. They are comfortable and fit well during climbing. After a couple of uses, the material molded to our feet making it even more comfortable. They were a bit tight to begin with, but we knew that they would shape to our feet.

The double stitch construction of this design makes durable footwear that you can rely on for years. This design is made up of high-quality leather with a rubber sole for added durability. The organic hemp footbeds allow your foot a comfortable spot to sink into, giving you a great snug fit. Organic hemp is a material that is not used in all of the other designs on our list.

The mesh tongue of this pair makes them breathable which reduces the risk of odor and mildew. Besides moisture control, the mesh also makes the design much more comfortable to wear even when they are still tight-fitting. The midsole is made of poly propylene and the ankle cuff, collar, and heel are all padded. We loved how well they grip to the climbing surface.

Not only is the organic hemp footbed great for comfort, but it tackles odor as well. The organic material keeps your feet feeling fresh and prevent overgrowth of bacteria that produces a smell. They were great at supporting our ankles during long and extreme climbing excursions. The strap on closure allows you to put them on and take them off quickly and without too much hassle.

Specifications

Pros

• Odor resistant
• Comfortable
• Double stitched
• Durable
• Affordable

Cons

• Difficult to find correct sizing

Our Verdict

This is a great choice for climbers of any skill level, and it can be used both indoors and outdoors. The neutral to moderate curve makes them more comfortable than designs that are more aggressive. They are ideal for multi-pitch routes as well as slabs and they do not put strain on your toes.

If foot odor is a problem for you, these are a great solution. The organic material combined with the breathability of the design reduce the risk of smell. Overall, this is a great product and it will be functional for all your climbing needs.

03 La Sportiva Men’s Miura VS Climbing Shoes (Top Long-Lasting Choice)

The strap hook-and-loop system makes this design one of the easiest to put on and take off. The straps make are also convenient for your fit because you can choose how tight you would like them to be. The upper is made of leather and is very flexible to add agility to your climbing.

The slip lasted construction makes them extra flexible and ideal for edging and rock climbing. The amazing edging power of this footwear is also increased by the slingshot rang and the power hinge system. The top lining is made of fabric and the underfoot is unlined.

The grip is brought about by a great rubber formula that is specifically designed for grip and edging. We had no issues with slipping when using this pair and we found it very comfortable as well. It is great for wide feet and we were able to slip it on quickly and comfortably.

The toe cap rubbed on our toes a little on some of the longer climbs, so we put tape under the edge to make it easier to climb for longer periods. They are obviously not great to stand in, but you shouldn’t be standing in climbing shoes anyway. Once you begin climbing, they will become more comfortable to wear.

After about 3 uses, this gear was broken in and we could use them painlessly every time we wanted to climb. The downturn is hooked enough to grip and the grip on the heel also allows you to grip onto rock properly to push yourself upwards.

Specifications

Pros

• Slip lasted
• Flexible
• Comfortable
• Strap hook-and-loop system
• Hooked downturn

Cons

• More expensive

Our Verdict

This is a more aggressive design with a hooked downturn which can make it uncomfortable for people whose feet are not used to climbing. This is recommended for intermediate to professional climbers who have more experience and are less likely to feel discomfort.

It can be used indoors on gym walls, and outdoors for rock climbing and edging. They are more expensive than some of the others on our list, but they are still affordable. The strap on closure makes it easy to don and doff this design. This is a great style for climbers and you should consider it for your next purchase.

04 BUTORA Unisex Acro Rock/Indoor Climbing Shoes

With sticky rubber outsoles, they the feature of being non-slip. We did not slip at any point while using this footwear. The triple fork closure system makes these easy to slip on and off at any time. You can also adjust the tightness of the design to fit your comfort and preference.

With an aggressive design, this is better suited to more skilled climbers whose feet have adapted to climbing shoes. The design makes it ideal for people with wider feet, although anyone can buy, and use is. The thin sticky rubber toe patch is great for sensitivity and grip while climbing. This is not seen on all designs featured on this list.

Rock and Ice awarded the Butora Unisex Acro the best climbing gear award. This is because of the great design and performance of this gear. The high-tension heel rand adds power where you need it most. The downturn is maintained by the ABS injected mid-sole, which will allow optimal performance for gear’s lifetime.

This gear is mostly suited for steep climbs and bouldering due to the aggressive curve and sticky rubber. This design also comes in 2 separate widths which are color coded. For wider feet, choose the orange Acro. If you want an aggressive fit, try to size down ½ a size from your regular street size.

This brand is a bit more expensive than some of the other pairs on this list, but their features make up for the price. We were surprised at how comfortable these shoes were even on feet with issues like bunions.

Specifications

Pros

• Slip Last
• Unisex
• Sticky rubber
• Strap-on closure
• Aggressive design

Cons

• Not comfortable for beginners

Our Verdict

A great design makes this perfect for any climber of any skill level, however, professionals and intermediates may find them more comfortable. This is simply because their feet are more accustomed to climbing gear and they will not struggle as much with toe strain as a beginner will.

The price is higher than some other brands, but it is not high enough to break your bank. They can be used indoors but are better suited to outdoor bouldering and rock climbing due to their aggressive curve. This is a great unisex product to try and it will fit any foot.

05 Five Ten Women’s Rogue VCS Climbing Shoes

This footwear has a neutral design, so it is flatter, and more comfortable. It is 100% synthetic with a rubber outsole and a leather upper. The fit of this design is aggressive, but will form a second skin around your feet after the first few uses. The toe box is wide enough to support wider feet and there is support under the toes.

The Rogues are sensitive and flexible which will allow you to grip holds with your feet well. They are softer than others on this list and do not have a stiff feel. They can be used inside the gym on climbing walls without being torn up. The same can be said for outside on the rock face.

They come at a good price considering the high-quality materials that are used for them. It is better to buy this footwear a size up as they can be very tight, but they do stretch. We wore these without socks and thought that they were very comfortable and breathable. The materials are also durable, adding even more strength to the build.

The Velcro strap-on closure makes it easy to regulate how tight you want the fit to be. It also makes putting them on and taking them off fast. Other designs on this list may not be as versatile with adjustments as this design is. We fit our feet comfortably into the Rogues even though some of us have foot problems.

Specifications

Pros

• Strap-on closure
• Durable
• Flexible
• Affordable
• Comfortable

Cons

• Difficult to find the right size

Our Verdict

They are recommended for beginner climbers because they are more flexible and flatter. This makes them more comfortable to use as you get your feet accustomed to climbing.

They are ideal for indoors but can occasionally be used outdoors on easier trails. They are sensitive and will allow you to grip footholds well. Less strain is put on your toes with the flat design, but there is also less padding between your heel and the rock.

06 Mad Rock Drifter Climbing Shoes

This slip lasted pair is flexible and sensitive to make your rock-climbing experience that much better. This design is what some people may refer to as an all-around performer. The last is slightly asymmetric and the flat profile offers great comfort. It will also mold to your foot because the full-grain leather will stretch over time.

A neoprene tongue allows you to easily slip them off between climbs. A sticky molded heel gave as excellent grip and made the design non-slip. The rubber sole gives only the best friction which also adds on to the non-slip feature. It might not be the most visually appealing design on our list, but it is a great performer.

This is one of the cheaper pairs featured on this list in comparison to most of the others. They can be used for narrow and wide feet, but big feet fit best. The hook-and-loop closure let you choose how tightly fitted you want your footwear to be. Even though you can adjust the tightness, these shoes have a very snug fit making them sensitive when climbing.

The generally fit is such that you should order a size larger than your street size. The light curve of this means that they are not able to grip on smaller foot holds on more aggressive trails. Climbing both indoor and outdoor was so much fun for us and we did not have a single problem with the Drifter’s performance.

Specifications

Pros

• Affordable
• Hook-and-loop closure
• Comfortable
• Sticky molded heel cup
• Neoprene tongue

Cons

• Not great for aggressive trails

Our Verdict

The comfort and flexibility of this climbing gear makes it great for any skill level. If you prefer more aggressive trails, then a more aggressive style will probably be to your liking. This is good for indoors and outdoors, and it’s easily removed.

The Drifters will not break your bank at all, and you get a high-quality product at a low price. If you have wide or fatter feet, this is a comfortable and functional option for you.

07 Reebok Men’s CrossFit Nano 6.0

Unlike every other mention on our list, these climbing shoes are designed more like trainers. Their general shape and overall look are very different to any other footgear we have used. With the Reebok CrossFit Nano 6.0, you will buy the same size you normally use for street shoes.

This gear has a flat shape making them super comfortable for wider feet. They are normally used for rope climbing, because of their general design. The rubber or gum soles are great for gripping rope and they offer a lot of friction for pushing yourself up the rope. We are not saying they cannot be used for rock climbing, but they are not very flexible.

The lack of flexibility means that gripping on rocks and boulders is a bit more difficult than it would be with other options on this list. This is one of the more expensive options we have come across, but they can also be used for more than just climbing.

The sandpaper texture of the outer material is not only for looks, but it also adds friction when using them. They are unisex so sizes are true to your normal size, and they come in a black and gum color. The mesh upper adds durability and lightweight strength. The flex grooves do add flexibility, but this is still regarded as a stiffer design.

The midsole is compression molded and this helps with cushioning and shock absorption. Even more friction and traction is aided by the midfoot teeth on the underside. We found them to be comfortable, sturdy, and easy to put on because of the thick tongue.

Specifications

Pros

• Sturdy
• Comfortable
• Unisex
• Midfoot teeth
• Shock absorbing

Cons

• Trainer design

Our Verdict

These are very different compared to the others on this list, but they will appeal to rope climbers more than rock climbers. They can be used both indoor and outdoor, but the design and construction of the footwear makes them ideal for rope climbing.

They are a better fit for beginner climbers, because they are super comfortable, and they will mold to your feet. These are some of the best Reeboks we have come across and we highly recommend it.

08 Scarpa Men’s Instinct VS Climbing Shoes

This is one of the more aggressive pairs we have come across on this list. It is slip-lasted making it flexible, but the overall form has quite a deep curve. Made almost entirely from synthetic leather, the Instinct is breathable and comfortable. Breaking it in takes about 4 or 5 uses and they can be quite uncomfortable to begin with.

They are true to size and you do not need to size up or down. This is different compared to the others we have reviewed, as most of the time sizing up or down is essential to get a good fit. This is not comfortable to wear when you are not climbing, which is good because you should only be wearing them for climbing anyway.

The toe hook and heel hook made edging so easy for us and we were able to really grip the rock. The aggressive shape of the Instinct is ideal for climbing where precision and power are important. It also makes them much more sensitive to allow you to navigate well when you climb, and to grip the holds with your feet.

The leather that makes up most of these shoes are designed to not stretch over time. This is definitely something that should be considered when you are worried about fit. If they are painfully tight, it is likely they will not become comfortable over time.

Another great feature is the rubber patches located on top of your toes. They allow you to grip the rock face properly when you are hooking the tops of the tip on small features. The strap-on closure also makes tightening and loosening the fit much easier you have more control over it.

Specifications

Pros

• Sensitive
• Flexible
• Slip-lasted
• Strap-on closure
• Excellent grip

Cons

• Uncomfortable for beginners
• Do not stretch over time

Our Verdict

They might be quite expensive, but the performance of the Scarpa Instinct will be able to show you why. They are great and better suited to intermediate or professional climbers that have experience with the aggressive style.

They do not stretch much so it is good to make sure that the size you choose is correct before you decide to keep them. Make sure that you are comfortable and make climbing fun again with this sensitive, powerful footwear.

09 Five Ten Men’s Anasazi Moccasym Climbing Shoes

This is the first slip-on that we have come across and we love it. It was so easy for us to slip on and off, but the only disadvantage is that we couldn’t control the tightness of the fit. The moderate curve makes them a comfortable barrier between your feet and the ground, and great for both indoor and outdoor climbing.

The soles are rubber and they can be resoled if necessary. This is high-friction footwear and can be used on the most aggressive trails as well as lighter trails. They are good for bigger feet and they will shape themselves to your foot shape over time. The elastic bands on the leather upper make it easier to slip on and off.

The sticky rubber outsoles make gripping rock easy and the non-slip feature allows you to safely climb over steeper rocks. The rubber feature also makes them more breathable and allows for some form of moisture control.

Comfort and stability are aided by the moderate curvature of these shoes. The slingshot heel also adds to the fit and comfort of the design. They do not offer the best support, but this can be an advantage because beginner climbers will be forced to strengthen their climbing muscles.

Their ideal use is for rock climbing, but they can be used by professional climbers for any type of rock or trail. Versatile trails are no match for the Anasazi Moccasyms and they can adapt to your feet and your usually climbing habits. They are not the cheapest on our list, but they come pretty close.

Specifications

Pros

• Slip-lasted
• Slip-on closure
• Breathable
• Flexible
• Moderate curvature

Cons

• Cannot control tightness of the fit

Our Verdict

This is great climbing gear for beginners, and it will allow you to develop your foot muscles for climbing. In doing this, you will be able to climb more aggressive trails for longer periods of time.

They are affordable in comparison to some of the other featured of our list. They work very well for wide feet and can also be used both indoors and outdoors for all of your climbing needs.

10 Black Diamond Men’s Momentum Lace Climbing Shoes

Lace-up closures are not everyone’s favorite because they get in the way sometimes, but the Momentum is an exception. The laces are barely noticeable unless you are making them tighter or looser.

They are neutral, so they are flat and don’t put much strain on the toes or muscles of the feet. The knit technology used makes them breathable allowing for moisture control. This reduces the risk of odor and we had no problems with odor while using the Momentums. The material also puts your comfort first.

Being able to adjust the fit is an advantage not seen with all footwear and you are able to make a lot more adjustments with lace-ups. The soft flex midsole also provides comfort and sensitivity for your precision when you climb. We were able to grip onto rocks with them and feel as if we were not wearing any footwear.

The 4.3mm sole makes them durable and they will last longer than some other styles that are out there. The fit of this style makes them great for any sized feet, but people with wide feet will benefit the most.

When it comes to fit, it is best to order a size down with this brand to get a snug fit. Lace-up designs are better for bracing your feet, but if you want to let your feet breathe in between climbs, it might take some effort to take off. This is an affordable product and it is easily one of the best lace-ups that are on the market.

Specifications

Pros

• Breathable
• Comfortable
• Durable
• Affordable
• Good grip

Cons

• Takes time to put on and take off

Our Verdict

We recommend the Momentums to beginner climbers who need to build up foot muscle. The breathability provides good moisture control but be aware that taking them off and putting them on can take some time.

The laces allow you to adjust the fit to your preference. This design is best suited for indoor climbing and that is where it will work best. It can, however, be used outdoors too on some occasions. This is an affordable make and any climber would benefit from it.

Best Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet – Buying Guide

1. Fit

These types of shoes are made to hug your foot rather tightly, making them a bit uncomfortable the first few days. They are supposed to mold to your foot after you use them a few times. They should not hurt you after they are broken in and if they cause rubbing on your toe knuckles or other sensitive areas, they are too tight.

2. Type

• Neutral climbing shoes: These are the most comfortable because they are the plates and do not have pointed toes. They are good for beginners and they don’t strain your toes.
• Moderate climbing shoes: They are a combination of neutral and aggressive types. They have a slight curve making them ideal for climbing on slabs and multi-pitch routes.
• Aggressive climbing shoes: These have an aggressive curve, pulling the toe down and putting tension on your heel. They are ideal for single-pitch route and gym walls.

3. Material and Durability

The material used is normally rubber, leather, or both. The thicker the rubber, the more durable the build will be. You want to find one that will last for a long time and that will be a good barrier between your foot and the rock. Leather is normally more durable, and it performs well, whereas rubber is good for comfort and moisture control.

4. Comfort

The upper is made to mold around your foot but rubber parts like the heel cup and the toe box will not stretch. If these parts feel wrong or uncomfortable, you better try another pair. Some have extra mesh or sweat padding to help control moisture and odor.

5. Closure

• Lace up: This type of closure makes them more versatile because you can decide how tightly you want the laces tied.
• Strap on: Velcro straps make putting them on and taking them off very easy, but they tend to lose stickiness over long periods of time.
• Slip on: These are easy to put on and take off and there is nothing in your way when you need to slip your foot into cracks.

6. Last

This includes all the parts of the construction that affect how it fits, such as the heel and forefoot width. Board lasted styles tend to be stiff, less sensitive, but comfortable for long climbs. Slip lasted styles are usually used for rock climbing due to their sensitivity and flexibility.

7. Upper

This is the material on the sides of the shoes that’s not made of rubber. They can be made from leather or synthetics. Leather is better for stretching, so if your feet have a strange shape, leather is the right option. Synthetics are easier to size because they do not stretch easily. They are also easier to clean. You can get a leather/synthetic hybrid which can be molded to your feet in certain areas.

8. Outsole

This part is in contact with rock when you climb and it can either be thin or thick, or sticky. Sticky outsoles are better for smearing on slabs and climbing. The firm outsoles are better for edging, but the thickness of the outsole will affect the performance.

9. Downturn

These shoes normally curve down at the toe and the downturn refers to how much curve there is. Flatter downturns are usually more comfortable but those with curved toes are more powerful on steeper walls.

10. Flexibility

The midsole is what determines how flexible they are. Softer midsoles are good for curving your feet around holds so they are ideal for bouldering. Stiffer midsoles are better at long outdoor climbs where support is a priority.

11. Lined vs Unlined

Unlined pairs can stretch all parts of the design which can be a disadvantage if you need a snug fit. Lined designs focus stretching on specific places to mold them to your foot easily.

12. Your class/level of experience

Beginner climbers should go for rigid models to help them strengthen the muscles needed for higher level climbing. As skill level increases, the flexibility can also increase.

13. Foot size and shape

Note down the size and general shape of your feet before going shopping for them. Everyone is different so there is no real way to choose the perfect footwear for a certain foot shape. You can, however, look for shoes made for wider feet.

14. Budget

The best designs out there range from about $35.00 to $323.00 which makes them quite affordable even for people on a strict budget. The higher the price, the better the quality of the product.

Cleaning & Maintenance Tips

• Don’t use them when you aren’t climbing

In doing this, you allow them to last longer. Most climbers have a small carpet to step on before starting to climb. Any dust and sand that gets onto the sticky soles can hinder their climbing ability.

• Store them in a cool place

Heat is used to remove the soles of shoes, so keeping them in hot areas can actually deform the rubber and damage them. For example, don’t leave them in a boiling hot car.

• Keep them clean

Using a minute amount of rubbing alcohol, you can wipe the dust and dirt from the soles. You can also dilute the alcohol with some water for cleaning the uppers using a toothbrush.

• Minimize odor

Making sure that you keep them in contact with air as much as you can, will minimize any smell and mildew that could form. You can also use a deodorizing spray or powder to reduce the risk of odor.

Tips on Fitting Climbing Shoes

It is good to remember that the best way to get the right fit, is by trying them on. A few tips for fitting your climbing shoes if you have wide feet include:

• Making sure that your toes curl gently or are flat.
• They should not put any pressure on sensitive parts of your foot.
• There should be no unnecessary space on top of your toes.
• The heel of your foot should be comfortably hugged.
• They should be tight fitted, but not uncomfortable.
• You can use a shoehorn to pull it over the heel of your foot easily.
• An insole can be used for your smaller foot to even out your feet, if they are different sizes.
• You can use a shoe stretcher to stretch them if they are too tight for your feet.

Wrapping It Up

Climbing is a mixture between a sport and a hobby, and many people benefit from it. We wanted to make your climbing experiences as pleasant as possible with the best climbing shoes for wide feet for sale. Our personal favorite is the Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoes. This is because we love the organic material and odor control qualities of this design.

Comfort is so important and every option on this list is comfortable. Not all of them will mold to your foot so you must make sure to choose the right one for you. Most of them are slip-lasted for flexible and sensitive climbing, making your time climbing all the more interesting.

FAQs

1. Are socks required when wearing climbing shoes?

Ans. You do not necessarily have to wear socks with your climbing shoes, but you can. Some people wear them because they find it more comfortable or because they are used to wearing socks. Provided that your shoes have the right fit, you shouldn’t have to wear socks.

2. Do climbing shoes stretch after a few uses?

Ans. Yes, most climbing shoes will stretch over time. This means when you first buy them, they might have a tighter fit than they do after your first few hours climbing in them. They should not be uncomfortably tight, though, especially if you’ve used them for a while.

3. What type of socks would I wear with my climbing shoes?

Ans. Mostly, people will bring socks along to climbing trips for warmth. It is recommended that you wear thick, woolen socks on top of your climbing shoes to add extra grip when you climb on wet rocks. It is also good to do this in bad weather and on multi-pitch routes.

4. How tight fitting should my climbing shoes be?

Ans. Ideally, you want them to hug your feet comfortably. They should not be so tight that it is painful. The right fit should allow your toes to curl slightly, but not be uncomfortable at the same time. Remember that they do stretch, so if they are too tight at first, that might not be the case later.

5. Do I need to wear climbing shoes for climbing?

Ans. No, you do not need special shoes for rock climbing. However, it normally makes climbing much easier, especially for beginners. At some point in your climbing career, you will want to invest in a pair of climbing shoes as they are inexpensive and make it safer to climb.

6. What is the proper way for climbing shoes to fit on my feet?

Ans. It is important to make sure that your toes are either flat or slightly curved in a comfortable way. Your toe knuckles shouldn’t be painfully pressed against the inside of your shoes. They should fit snuggly around your heel and if they are too difficult to put on, the pair is most probably too small.

7. How long do I have to wait before resoling my climbing shoes?

Ans. There is no definite answer to this question because everyone has a different climbing schedule. If you climb around one to two times a week, you can resole your shoes in about 3 to 9 months after your purchase. This is all dependent on how often you climb and also where you climb.

8. Can climbing shoes be washed in a washing machine?

Ans. No, climbing shoes should never be washed in a washing machine because laundry detergent can damage every part of them. Wearing socks with your shoes might help with odor and you can also use foot powders. These chemicals can wear your gear down and make the material brittle.