Are you trying to find bouldering shoes among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling bouldering shoes on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 22 hours of research and did 81 bouldering shoes tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best bouldering shoes you can buy today
- Neutral, flat last for vertical climbing or all-day comfort
- Updated midsole for improved edging ability
- Two Velcro straps for fit adjustability
- 4.3mm rubber is built for durability and molded for optimal consistency and performance
- Soft flex midsole for added sensitivity and comfort
- Materials in entire shoe are completely vegan
- Hemp footbed
- Updated knit with softer lining provides exceptional breathability and improved comfort
- Softer toe rands for better fit and comfort
- Updated heel rubber geometry for consistent tension
- USE CASE: Striker QC is an all-round climbing shoe, for a wide range of climbers from entry level to recreational. Designed for those who seek a comfortable shoe for easy to moderate routes or an introduction to climbing. Slightly asymmetrical shape, ideal for indoor, bouldering, and multipitch climbing.
- FIT: Striker QC is intended to fit to most foot shapes comfortably with a neutral profile and more generous big toe power point. The relaxed heel allows for the foot to fit flat and comfortably in the shoe with room for less stressed toes. Ocun shoes are designed for a performance fit at or near street shoe size, most climbers find this shoe fits as intended at street shoe size or +/- 1/2 size based on personal preference.
- FEATURES: The Striker QC has a strengthened rubber toe and vegan microfiber upper, 2D medium stiffness midsole for support, quick Velcro closure, and a straight shoe profile with a relaxed heel rand and padded tongue.
- SHOE LAST: The Entratic last designed for beginners with an emphasis on comfort. Slightly asymmetric shape with features of a performance last – big toe oriented more to the inner edge with anatomically shaped heel intended for normal to wide foot.
- OCUN: (Ot:s-oon) Climbing is our passion! Bringing innovative engineering and precise Czech manufacturing to the design, function, and safety of all climbing equipment since 1998. 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
- Ideal for bouldering and technical rock/gym climbing. Protective toe covering along with heel support for all types of climbing.
- The half-sole construction increases broad movement abilities and sensitivity while reducing waste when resoling is needed
- New heel construction enhances heel hook performance with increased rubber coverage
- Rubber toe cap integrated into the rubber rand optimizes toe hooking performance and increases overall shoe durability
- Ideal for bouldering and technical rock/gym climbing. Protective toe covering along with heel support for all types of climbing.
- The half-sole construction increases broad movement abilities and sensitivity while reducing waste when resoling is needed
- New heel construction enhances heel hook performance with increased rubber coverage
- Rubber toe cap integrated into the rubber rand optimizes toe hooking performance and increases overall shoe durability
- EU Size: 44.5 – US Size: 12 Women/11 Men | Stiff and Supportive | Slightly softer than the Instinct, the Instinct VS sports a thinner sole for added sensitivity, letting you feel the rock beneath your feet.
- Toe Rubber | A large patch of rubber on top gives you maximum coverage for toe hooks and bat hangs.
- Vibram Rubber | Stiff enough to let you stand on the thinnest edges, the XS Edge rubber in the forefoot pairs perfectly with the stickier XS Grip 2 heel rubber that molds perfectly to heel hooks on any rock type.
- Flexan Dynamic Midsole | Offsetting the softer upper, the redesigned Flexan midsole is slightly stiffer, offering plenty of support and reducing foot fatigue on multi-pitch routes.
- Sizing Advice – Synthetic climbing shoes should fit snugly and will not stretch much over time. An ideal fit should have no dead space out of the box. Use the sizing chart in the product images or description to find your size, then downsize ½ to 2 sizes for premium performance.
- Neutral, flat last for vertical climbing or all-day comfort
- Updated midsole for improved edging ability
- Lace entry for fit adjustability?
- 4.3mm rubber is built for durability and molded for optimal consistency and performance
- Soft flex midsole for added sensitivity and comfort
- Materials in entire shoe are completely vegan
- Hemp footbed
- Updated knit with softer lining provides exceptional breathability and improved comfort
- Softer toe rands for better fit and comfort
- Updated heel rubber geometry for consistent tension
- Versatility In Form | Built with a moderate downturn and slightly asymmetric profile, the Vapor V blends performance in steep terrain with the sensitivity and comfort you need when the angle eases off.
- Suede In Spades | A microsuede upper with a reduced tongue volume keeps the shoe supple, while a suede foot base conforms to the shape of your foot, providing all-day comfort.
- Vibram XS Edge Rubber | Stiff enough to let you stand on the thinnest edges, the XS Edge outsole pairs nicely with the softer M70 rubber in the heel for a shoe that can handle everything from short, technical boulders to long, vertical headwalls.
- Flexan Dynamic Midsole | Offsetting the softer upper, the redesigned Flexan midsole is slightly stiffer, offering plenty of support and reducing foot fatigue on multi-pitch routes.
- Bi-Tension Rand | Using a reverse slingshot design, this system connects your heel to your toe, resulting in less foot discomfort and more power being driven towards your primary edging surface.
- USE CASE: The Ocun Bullit is designed on a high performance last created to conquer boulders. Super sticky CAT μ1.5 rubber combined with a pretensioned arch, and slipper fit create a notably comfortable but powerful choice that excels at bouldering and sport climbing both indoors and outside.
- FIT: Bullit is best fit to an average to slightly wide Greek or Roman foot shape with an average volume and medium heel. Ocun shoes are designed for a performance fit at or near street shoe size, most climbers find this shoe fits best at street shoe size or -1/2 size for an aggressive performance fit. We strongly recommend against aggressive downsizing.
- FEATURES: Vegan construction with a microfiber upper, soft 2D toe midsole, and a comfortable slipper fit with a dual-point Velcro strap to prevent rotation on the foot. 3D molded sticky rubber toe patch, pretensioned heel strap and Ocun’s super sticky CAT μ1.5 rubber.
- SHOE LAST: The Asymmetrix Plus last offers a slightly down-turned, asymmetrical, and concave shape. Anatomically modeled to accommodate stressed toes the Asymmetrix is best fit to a Greek foot shape where the power point is oriented slightly more toward the index toes. Designed to excel in overhanging routes.
- OCUN: (Ot:s-oon) Climbing is our passion! Bringing innovative engineering and precise Czech manufacturing to the design, function, and safety of all climbing equipment since 1998. 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
- [Hook-and-Loop] The hook-and-loop strap on the shoe body is easy to put on and take off, and the adjustment is quick and flexible, making the movement of the sole of the foot more free, allowing you to customize the fit according to the shape of your foot and the performance you want.
- [Soft Material] The upper is made of synthetic material, which is lighter and softer, with a thick rubber outsole for more durability, NOXNEX rock climbing shoes give you time to learn the nuances of proper footwork.
- [Arched Sole] Fits better, with a higher arch, for better foot feel and support, so that the climber's body weight is concentrated on the big toe, and the power concentration gives an advantage on competitive or bouldering routes.
- [Multiple Rock Climbing] Multifunctional suitable for rock climbing enthusiasts who love to climb, suitable for a variety of rock climbing, including moderate routes, competitions, bouldering, fitness classes and indoor training.
- [Comfortable Wearing] NOXNEX climbing shoes with soft elastic midsole to improve sensitivity, are the entry-level climbing shoes you need, light and comfortable performance, let you wear these climbing shoes all day without feeling tired feet.
- Barefoot Inspired - Wearing this barefoot you’ll engage your feet more, and strengthen the muscle fibers that get neglected when you’re all laced up. With stronger accessory muscles in the foot, injury rates were expected to drop and running efficiency would improve.
- Wide Toe Box Design - Wide enough toe box allows your toes to relax and spread out naturally for more comfort and stability in uphill climbs and downhill descents, helping with balance and giving you better feedback from the ground.
- Comfortable & Flexible - The flexible synthetic mesh upper provide breathability when you are doing workout or running, breathable mesh design and insoles can keep your feet away from damp conditions.
- Various Activities - This trail running shoes are suitable for many occasions, such as walking,training, running, jogging, physical exercises, daily gym sports and so on. You can also wear it as a water shoe.
- Style-Reflective strip on heel counter is not only a decoration, but also can provide you with some safety when you exercise at night.
- USE CASE: Jett QC is a do-all climbing shoe designed to combine comfort with performance, delivering performance with a moderate asymmetrical curve for increased precision on technical sequences and a flat profile for pain-free all-day wear. With a stiff midsole and a precise power point Jett can twist into cracks for efficient, less painful jams and provide comfort for multi-pitch climbs. Ideal for gym or crag, Jett is a reliable choice for bouldering, sport, trad and multipitch climbing.
- FIT: Jett is best fit to an Egyptian foot shape with average volume. Ocun shoes are designed for a performance fit at or near street shoe size, most climbers find this shoe fits best at street shoe size or down 1/2 size based on personal preference. We recommend against significant downsizing.
- FEATURES: Microfiber upper, 2D Fit hard midsole with moderate asymmetry and flat profile last. Two hook and loop closures for easy on and off, seamless heel and breathable stretch tongue. Featuring Ocun’s own super sticky CAT 1.5 rubber.
- SHOE LAST: The All-Around last was designed for all-around sport performance with comfort. The All-Round is moderately asymmetrical, with a neutral arch and anatomically average heel. The toe box provides average width and volume with a focused big toe power point.
- OCUN: (Ot:s-oon) Climbing is our passion! Bringing innovative engineering and precise Czech manufacturing to the design, function, and safety of all climbing equipment since 1998. 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
- Upper Material: Syn Flex, Profile: Performance
- Midsole: 1.8mm polyester midsole, Stiffness: Medium
- Asymmetrical Curvature: Moderate
- Rubber: Science Friction 3.0
- Closure: Hook-and-loop
- Neutral, flat last for vertical climbing or all-day comfort
- Updated midsole for improved edging ability
- Two Velcro straps for fit adjustability
- 4.3mm rubber is built for durability and molded for optimal consistency and performance
- Soft flex midsole for added sensitivity and comfort
- Materials in entire shoe are completely vegan
- Hemp footbed
- Updated knit with softer lining provides exceptional breathability and improved comfort
- Softer toe rands for better fit and comfort
- Updated heel rubber geometry for consistent tension
- Versatility In Form | Built with a moderate downturn and slightly asymmetric profile, the Vapor V blends performance in steep terrain with the sensitivity and comfort you need when the angle eases off.
- Suede In Spades | A microsuede upper with a reduced tongue volume keeps the shoe supple, while a suede foot base conforms to the shape of your foot, providing all-day comfort.
- Vibram XS Grip 2 Rubber | The mid-stiff Vibram XS Grip 2 outsole pairs nicely in the forefoot with the softer M70 rubber in the heel to give you a highly technical shoe that won’t shy away from any style of climbing.
- Women’s Last | These climbing shoes feature a more narrow last and lower-volume heel cup for a women’s-specific fit.
- Bi-Tension Rand | Using a reverse slingshot design, this system connects your heel to your toe, resulting in less foot discomfort and more power being driven towards your primary edging surface.
- Classic For A Reason | With more than a few awards to its name, the Helix offers a classic lace-up design that’s a fan-favorite among climbing guides, beginning climbers, and anyone looking for an all-day climbing shoe.
- Padded Heel Cup | Hugging your heel in all the right places, the built-in heel cushioning provides a secure fit without pinching your Achilles tendon.
- Vibram XS Edge Rubber | Offering superb support, the XS Edge rubber is stiff, consistent, and durable — ideal for climbers learning the nuances of foot placements.
- Symmetrical Profile | Designed to match the natural shape of your foot, the nearly symmetrical construction is perfect for slab and crack climbing.
- Passive Rand | Prioritizing comfort over power, the passive rand is tensioned perfectly to let you wear these climbing shoes all day, without foot fatigue.
- It possesses the high-quality features of all CLIMBX rock climbing shoe models. High performance, multi-purpose design, and great comfort.
- Lace Design: Allows comprehensive adjustment to fit the foot shape perfectly; Able to adjust tightness and wraps around foot comfortably.
- Upper: made with high-quality leather; offers great stretch and gas permeability.
- Shoe Last is notably smooth, great for long-period wear.
- Front upper side Edge Protection: Prevents both feet from rolling when pressure is released towards the front of the shoe. Increases precision, maximizes prevention from shoe distortion, and increases usage life span.
- Less Stiff, Same Stick | As the younger sibling of the Instinct VS, the VSR is suited to lighter climbers who found the original model to be a bit too stiff.
- Toe Rubber | A large patch of rubber on top gives you maximum coverage for toe hooks and bat hangs.
- Vibram XS Grip 2 Rubber | Ideal for any rock type and style, the XS Grip 2 rubber is both stiff and sticky, giving you the grip you need for steeper walls and overhanging boulders.
- Flexan Dynamic Midsole | Offsetting the softer upper, the redesigned Flexan midsole is slightly stiffer, offering plenty of support and reducing foot fatigue on multi-pitch routes.
- Bi-Tension Rand | Using a reverse slingshot design, this system connects your heel to your toe, resulting in less foot discomfort and more power being driven towards your primary edging surface.
- USE CASE: When it’s time to level up from your beginner climbing shoes the Advancer is there to pace with your progress, more ambitious, more accurate, and more advanced. Both the Ocun Advancer QC and Advancer LU are all-round climbing shoes, designed for advancing climbers seeking higher performance in a comfortable shoe. Slightly asymmetrical climbing shoe, ideal for indoor climbing and bouldering.
- FIT: The Advancer is best fit to a Greek or Roman foot shape. Ocun shoes are designed for a performance fit at or near street shoe size, most climbers find this shoe fits best at street shoe size or - 1/2 size based on personal preference. We recommend against significant downsizing.
- FEATURES: The Advancer QC has quick Velcro closer for convenience while the LU has laces for a precise fit down the length of the shoe. Both QC and LU are vegan construction, with a microfiber upper, 2D Hard Fit midsole, support thanks to the tensioned heel strap, and Ocun’s own super sticky CAT 1.5 rubber sole.
- SHOE LAST: The Advantic last is designed to fit especially well for climbers with Greek or Cube toe shape – with the power point oriented towards the longer index toes or straight-aligned toes. Advantic delivers a slight downturn with low asymmetry with anatomically shaped heel intended for normal to wide foot.
- OCUN: (Ot:s-oon) Climbing is our passion! Bringing innovative engineering and precise Czech manufacturing to the design, function, and safety of all climbing equipment since 1998. 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
- Please refer to the Sizing Chart for Recommended Size
- Padded Collar and Heel for Comfort
- Visit https://climbx;us/ for More Details
- Please refer to the Sizing Chart for Recommended Size
How to choose a good bouldering shoes
Does the idea of finding a fantastic bouldering shoes make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in bouldering shoes. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top bouldering shoes products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top bouldering shoes on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top bouldering shoes brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top bouldering shoes based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the bouldering shoes were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good bouldering shoes, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your bouldering shoes.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting bouldering shoes for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our bouldering shoes. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what bouldering shoes should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on bouldering shoes.
