Climbing shoes are an important piece of gear for rock climbers because they help climbers find secure footing while on the rock. Shoes are made with a special kind of rubber that provides friction when climbing on rock. They also are formed so that a climber can jam their foot into a crack, or smear on a flat slab. Thus, they have a significant advantage over sneakers or boots.
When buying a pair of climbing shoes, consider doing so at a specialty climbing shop. It’s easier to make an informed purchase after trying the shoe on for fit and comfort, and the sales staff can help finding a particular shoe for different kinds of climbing (for instance, sport climbing on short routes versus trad climbing on long routes). The shoes should fit snugly, but not so tight as to cut off circulation. The store might have a simulated climbing surface to try out the shoes on.
For more information about rock climbing shoes, check out these local gear stores in the Denver area:
REI
Neptune Mountaineering
The Bent Gate
Wilderness Exchange
Also, if you enjoyed this article consider reading How to buy a climbing harness.
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