Climbing gyms are getting popular for their adrenaline-driven activities that attract many adventure seekers, especially in areas far from the mountains. But, you need the perfect gear to enjoy your adventure and stay safe.
The best gym climbing shoes are the most important thing you need. They are the safety cushion between the rock and you. Undoubtedly, the wrong type of shoes can wreak havoc on your expedition.
They do not just assist you to remain safe but also augment your experience. There are tons of shoes to choose from in the market, just like any other climbing gear. And it can be a challenge to narrow down your options.
To help you out, here is a guide that will tell you what makes the perfect gym climbing shoes for everyone.
What Makes the Perfect Gym Climbing Shoes?
Here is a guideline to help you out while picking the best gym climbing shoes.
Type of Downturn –
The downturn decides the curve amount in the shoe sole, and it can be classified into moderate, aggressive, and flat types. You should be looking for flat sports shoes if you are climbing on terrain that is quite steep or vertical. Because of the curve present in the aggressive shoes, the feet will not rest in the natural position. You may have an advantage when pulling or perching on small edges because of that.
Types of Climbing Shoes –
It is vital to consider the type of climbing you are going for and the terrain for selecting the shoes in this case. That’s because there are a variety of choices for each situation.
1. Sports –
Your shoes must have a quality edging platform, a stiff midsole, a lace closure, and a tight heel cup. To scale vertical climbs, a stiff shoe with a moderate downturn is ideal.
2. Bouldering –
These shoes are not designed for comfortable wear. Instead, they are designed to assist you in climbing well on abrupt terrain and ensuring that you can easily stick to the heel hook, the tiny in cuts, and the toe hook. These shoes come with a solid amount of rounded and rubber-covered heel cups, toe rubber, and an aggressive downturn. They also have a very high sensitivity to assist you in feeling the rocks.
3. Trad –
Usually, the best performers are non-aggressive flat or all-rounded shoes. The ideal shoes must have laces, a relaxed fit, a steep midsole and at the same time provide solid ankle protection. It will consist of no or minimum heel/toe downturn or rubber. However, if you go for steep terrains or demanding routes, then you may prefer more downturn.
Durability –
Most climbers, nowadays, climb indoors more than they go outdoors. As a result of that, you will require gym shoes that hold up to all the dragging, scraping, and the usual wear and tear that you will put them through every week.
Closure Style –
There is hardly any closure style that is best suited for the gym. This implies that you should pick a shoe with the closest style that fits your preference. If you want to take your shoes off frequently, a velcro-strapped shoe or a slip-on is your best choice. If, on the other hand, you keep your shoes on for a prolonged time and prefer a highly customizable fit, then laces are great for you.
These are some of the things you should keep in mind to purchase the best gym climbing shoes, which will be your ideal companion for all your climbing campaigns.
