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For over a decade, we have purchased and tested the best climbing shoes to test side-by-side. Our team of certified rock guides and professional rescuers has tested more than 75 shoes to date, delivering the most comprehensive review of climbing shoes in existence. Below, we compare 27 pairs of the best climbing shoes for men, covering options for everything from gym and sport climbing to bouldering and long trad routes.
We love the La Sportiva Katana Lace for sport and trad climbing. Blending edging power, precision, and comfort into one versatile package, it’s well-suited for any type of roped climbing.
If you’re focused on bouldering and modern sport climbing, the Scarpa Instinct VS is a bit more flexible and sensitive, which helps it thrive on overhung routes.
If you’re working on a budget, check out the Unparallel UpMocc. This wallet-friendly shoe can be sized comfortably for climbing cracks or long multi-pitch routes, or tightly for more versatility while bouldering and gym climbing.
Editor’s Note: We updated our climbing shoe review on November 24, 2025, after retesting every shoe in our review. We re-scored old favorites and added new shoes from Scapra, Unparallel, La Sportiva, Tenaya, Ocun, and Mad Rock.
