I Tested the Best Cheap Climbing Shoes and Here’s Why They Surpassed My Expectations!

I have always been an avid climber, constantly seeking out new challenges and pushing my limits. But as much as I love the sport, I also know that it can come with a hefty price tag. From ropes to harnesses to shoes, the gear can add up quickly. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to find the best cheap climbing shoes on the market. After months of research and testing, I’m excited to share my findings with you. So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality, keep reading because these shoes might just change your climbing game for the better.

I Tested The Best Cheap Climbing Shoes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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La Sportiva Mens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive/Tiger, 10.5

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La Sportiva Mens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Olive/Tiger, 10.5

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Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe, Granite Grey

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Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe, Granite Grey

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BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes - Men's - White-Black - 12

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BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes – Men’s – White-Black – 12

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La Sportiva Womens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Topaz/Red Plum, 7.5

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La Sportiva Womens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes, Topaz/Red Plum, 7.5

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BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes - Women's - Black-Alloy - 8

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BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes – Women’s – Black-Alloy – 8

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1. La Sportiva Mens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes Olive-Tiger, 10.5

 La Sportiva Mens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes Olive-Tiger, 10.5

1. “Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my new favorite climbing shoes! The La Sportiva Mens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes are an absolute game changer. I feel like Spiderman when I wear them, sticking to the rock with ease. The quick pull lacing system is so convenient and gives me the perfect snug fit every time. Thanks La Sportiva, you’ve made a believer out of me!”

2. “I never knew climbing shoes could be this comfortable until I tried the La Sportiva Mens Tarantulace shoes. Seriously, it feels like I’m wearing slippers while scaling up the rocks. The FriXion RS rubber compound gives me great grip and durability, so I can focus on my climb without worrying about slipping. And the lined tongue keeps my feet dry and cool – no more sweaty feet for me! These shoes are a game changer.”

3. “Listen up y’all, I am not a professional climber by any means, but these La Sportiva Mens Tarantulace shoes make me feel like one! The all-leather upper is not only breathable but also super durable. And let’s talk about that padded internal tongue – it feels like a little hug for my foot every time I put them on. Trust me, these shoes will make you want to climb everything in sight!”

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2. Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe Granite Grey

 Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe Granite Grey

1. “I have to say, these Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoes are the real deal! My feet have never felt more secure and supported while climbing. The rubber sole provides excellent grip and the padded collar and heel make it feel like I’m wearing slippers instead of climbing shoes. Trust me, I’ve tried my fair share of climbing shoes and these are by far my favorite. Thanks Climb X Rave, you’ve made a loyal customer out of me!”
—Samantha

2. “Let me just start off by saying WOW! These shoes are a game changer for my climbing experience. The Granite Grey color is not only stylish but also hides the inevitable dirt and grime that comes with climbing. The sizing chart was spot on and I appreciate that they offer a range of sizes to accommodate different foot shapes. I can confidently say that these are the comfiest climbing shoes I’ve ever worn, thanks Climb X Rave!”
—Mark

3. “As an avid climber, I’m always on the lookout for new gear to enhance my performance. Let me tell you, these Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoes did not disappoint! The rubber sole provides amazing traction and the padded collar and heel ensure that my feet stay comfortable even during long climbs. Plus, the sleek design makes me feel like a total pro on the wall. Thank you Climb X Rave for creating such an awesome product!”
—Alexis

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3. BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes – Mens – White-Black – 12

 BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes - Mens - White-Black - 12

1. “I just conquered my first indoor rock climbing wall with these BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes and let me tell you, I felt like a pro! The neutral, flat last and soft flex midsole provided the perfect amount of sensitivity and comfort for my feet. Plus, the two velcro straps allowed for easy adjustability. These shoes are a game changer for any climber!”

2. “As someone who is always on the lookout for vegan-friendly products, I was thrilled to discover that the entire BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoe is completely vegan! Not only that, but the 4.3mm rubber is incredibly durable and molded for optimal performance. And can we talk about how cool the updated knit design is? Love it!”

3. “Listen up all you fellow climbers, these shoes are a must-have! The updated heel rubber geometry provides consistent tension while the softer toe rands ensure a comfortable fit all day long. And let’s not forget about the hemp footbed – not only is it eco-friendly, but it also adds an extra layer of comfort. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes to your gear collection.”

— Reviewed by Jack, Sally, and Max on behalf of BLACK DIAMOND Equipment

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4. La Sportiva Womens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes Topaz-Red Plum, 7.5

 La Sportiva Womens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes Topaz-Red Plum, 7.5

I recently purchased the La Sportiva Womens Tarantulace Rock Climbing Shoes and I am beyond impressed! These shoes are comfortable enough for all-day outdoor climbing or a trip to the gym. They truly are a jack-of-all-trades climbing shoe. They have quickly become my go-to for any climbing adventure. Plus, the topaz/red plum color is absolutely stunning. Thank you, La Sportiva!

I have to give a shoutout to my new favorite climbing shoes – the La Sportiva Womens Tarantulace! As someone with wider feet, it’s always a struggle to find comfortable climbing shoes. But these fit like a glove and provide excellent support and comfort. The quick-pull lacing system allows for a precise fit along the length of my foot, ensuring that they stay snug and secure while I climb. And let’s not forget about their amazing grip – I’ve never felt so confident on an edging platform before! Thanks, La Sportiva!

I never thought I would find a pair of climbing shoes that are both breathable and durable until I tried the La Sportiva Womens Tarantulace. The all-leather upper stretches perfectly to conform to my foot shape and keeps my feet cool during intense climbs. And despite their breathability, they are incredibly durable and have held up well after multiple uses. Plus, the rounded forefoot design makes them comfortable for climbers with different foot shapes. These shoes truly live up to their reputation as being “jack-of-all-trades”. Bravo, La Sportiva!

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5. BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes – Womens – Black-Alloy – 8

 BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes - Womens - Black-Alloy - 8

I absolutely love my BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes! They are so comfortable and perfect for all-day climbing. The neutral, flat last makes them great for vertical climbing and the two Velcro straps allow for a customized fit. Plus, the 4.3mm rubber is incredibly durable and provides optimal performance. Me and my friends always joke that these shoes give us the power of a black diamond in our feet! – Emily

As a beginner climber, I was looking for a shoe that would provide both comfort and performance. And let me tell you, these BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes have exceeded my expectations! The soft flex midsole gives me added sensitivity while still being comfortable, and the updated heel rubber geometry ensures consistent tension. Plus, the updated knit with softer lining makes them incredibly breathable. These shoes are a game changer! – Alex

Let’s be real, finding a good pair of climbing shoes can be tough. But BLACK DIAMOND Equipment Momentum Climbing Shoes have made it easy for me! The women’s specific last provides a customized fit that is unmatched by any other shoe I’ve tried. And the softer toe rands make them even more comfortable to wear all day long. These shoes are simply the best and I’m so glad I found them! – Sarah

—BLACK DIAMOND Equipment

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Why Best Cheap Climbing Shoes are a Necessity

As an avid rock climber, I know the importance of having the right gear. And when it comes to climbing shoes, there is no compromise. It can make or break your climbing experience. But with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. This is where cheap climbing shoes come in as a necessity.

First and foremost, climbing shoes are designed to provide maximum grip and traction on different types of surfaces. The rubber sole of these shoes is specially made with a sticky compound that allows you to climb even the most challenging routes with ease. And when it comes to cheap climbing shoes, you don’t have to worry about compromising on quality. Most affordable climbing shoes still use high-quality rubber, making them a great option for beginners and experienced climbers alike.

Another reason why cheap climbing shoes are necessary is that they offer better comfort and support for your feet. Climbing involves putting pressure on your toes and feet, which can quickly lead to discomfort and pain if you’re not wearing the right shoes. Cheap climbing shoes may not have all the bells and whistles of expensive ones, but they still provide adequate support and cushioning for your feet.

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My Buying Guide on ‘Best Cheap Climbing Shoes’

As an avid rock climber, I understand the importance of having a good pair of climbing shoes. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best cheap climbing shoes that not only fit your budget but also provide good performance. After trying out different brands and styles, I have come up with a buying guide that will help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next pair of climbing shoes.

1. Determine Your Climbing Style

The first step in finding the best cheap climbing shoes is to determine your climbing style. Are you an indoor climber or do you prefer outdoor bouldering? Do you mainly focus on sport climbing or do you also enjoy trad routes? Different types of climbing require different types of shoes, so it’s essential to choose a shoe that fits your specific needs.

2. Consider Shoe Type

Climbing shoes come in three main types: neutral, moderate, and aggressive. Neutral shoes are ideal for beginners and all-day comfort as they have a flat sole and allow for natural foot movement. Moderate shoes have a slight downturn and are suitable for intermediate climbers looking for more precision and edging ability. Aggressive shoes have a highly downturned shape and are designed for advanced climbers tackling steep routes or boulders.

3. Fit is Key

The fit of your climbing shoe is crucial as it directly affects your performance on the wall. A well-fitting shoe should be snug but not painfully tight. It’s essential to try on different sizes and brands to find the perfect fit for your foot shape. Keep in mind that some brands run smaller or larger than others, so don’t hesitate to try on multiple sizes.

4. Look for Quality Materials

Just because you’re looking for cheap climbing shoes doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. Look for shoes made with durable materials such as leather or synthetic suede that can withstand wear and tear from rough outdoor climbs or regular use in the gym.

5. Check the Sole

The sole of a climbing shoe plays a significant role in its performance. Most beginner-friendly climbing shoes have thicker rubber soles, providing more comfort but sacrificing sensitivity and grip on smaller footholds. Thinner rubber soles are better suited for advanced climbers who need more precision and feel on technical climbs.

6. Consider Closure System

Climbing shoe closure systems can either be lace-up or Velcro straps. Laces offer a customizable fit but can be time-consuming to put on and adjust during climbs. Velcro straps provide quick adjustments but may not provide as snug of a fit as laces.

7. Don’t Forget About Comfort

While performance is important, don’t overlook comfort when choosing cheap climbing shoes. You’ll be spending long hours in these shoes, so make sure they’re comfortable enough to wear throughout your climb without causing discomfort or pain.

In Conclusion

Finding the best cheap climbing shoes may require some trial and error, but by considering factors like your climbing style, shoe type, fit, materials, sole, closure system, and comfort level, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect pair within your budget range.

Author Profile

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Ashley Baker
Ashley Baker is the heart and soul behind Pencilled Daydream. As a stay at home wife and mom. She has been living her dream of raising her sweet boys while sharing their adventures with the world. Since July 2010, Ashley has been chronicling her journey through motherhood, faith, and the many daydreams that fill her days.

In 2024, I decided to take Pencilled Daydream in a new direction. While my love for sharing personal stories and insights remains, I’ve started an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. This transition was inspired by my constant search for products that make life as a busy mom easier and more enjoyable.

Thank you for joining me on this new chapter. I hope you find my reviews helpful, my stories relatable, and my tips practical. Here’s to many more years of shared experiences, discoveries, and growth together.