Climbing shoes are an essential part of a climber’s gear, but they can also be one of the most painful pieces. Many climbers who are new to the sport find themselves wondering if the pain is normal, or if they just got a bad pair of shoes.
The answer is a little bit of both. Climbing shoes are supposed to be too tight and not comfortable, but there are a few things you can do to ease the pain.
The different types of climbing shoes
There are many different types of climbing shoes available on the market, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. The most important factor to consider when choosing a climbing shoe is the type of climbing you will be doing.
For example, if you are planning on doing a lot of bouldering, you will want a shoe that is comfortable and has a good grip. On the other hand, if you are planning on doing some sport climbing, you will want a shoe that is more precise and has better edging ability.
Here is a rundown of some of the most popular types of climbing shoes:
Bouldering Shoes: Bouldering shoes are designed for comfort and grip. They often have thicker soles than other types of climbing shoes, which makes them ideal for walking on rough terrain.
The benefits of tight shoes
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned climber, tight shoes are a must-have for anyone serious about the sport. Here are three benefits of tight shoes that will help you improve your climbing game:
1. Better Footwork – Tight shoes provide more support and allow for better precision when placing your feet on small holds. This can make all the difference when trying to execute difficult moves.
2. Increased Stamina – Because tight shoes improve footwork, climbers can save energy by not having to overcompensate for poor technique. This leads to increased stamina and endurance on longer routes.
3. Fewer Injuries – With improved footwork and increased stamina comes a reduced risk of injuries. Climbers who wear tight shoes are less likely to suffer from common problems like blisters, black toenails, and heel pain.
The downsides of tight shoes
Most people think that tight shoes are a good thing because they provide support and keep the foot in place. However, there are downsides to tight shoes, especially when it comes to climbing shoes. Tight shoes can cause blisters and calluses because they rub against the skin.
They can also cause bunions and hammertoes because they put pressure on the toes. In addition, tight shoes can lead to foot problems such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. So, if you’re going to be doing any climbing, make sure you choose shoes that fit well and aren’t too tight. Your feet will thank you for it!
When to size up your shoes
It’s important to have the right sized shoes when climbing, if your shoes are too big it will be difficult to stay on the holds and your feet will slip out more easily. If your shoes are too small they will be uncomfortable and you’ll likely get blisters. How do you know when it’s time to size up? Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Your shoes should feel snug but not tight. There should be about a thumb’s width of space from the end of your longest toe to the front of the shoe. The shoe should hold your foot securely without putting pressure on any one part of your foot.
As you climb, you should feel confident and secure in your footholds – if you start slipping or losing confidence, it may be time to size up.
