So now you are into mountaineering, and the first question you are concerned about is how to choose climbing shoes. Although there are some peculiarities one should pay attention to during the selection process, its not that complicated. Read on and find out what you should and shouldn't do while choosing climbing shoes.

Do think of the purpose of your sports activities and pick up an appropriate type of mountaineering footwear

The kind of shoes you need depends on the sort of climbing you are going to do. According to the general rule, the steeper a mountain gets, the more hooked the toe of your foorwear should be. Thus, flat-lasted shoes are perfect for gym climbing, cambered-last ones may be used for trad and crack climbing and hooked-toe sneakers should be used for bouldering and sport climbing.

Don't take the shoes that are too tight on your feet

Contrary to popular opinion, mountaineering footwear should never press your toes, especially if you are a beginner. A good rule of thumb is to decrease the size of your climbing shoes as the level of your skills increases.

Do give preference to shoe uppers that are made of genuine leather

Although such sneakers tend to be more expensive than their synthetic compatriots, they are more comfortable to wear because of air permeability. This means that your feet will not sweat too much. The only thing one should consider is that leather footwear usually stretches a bit as time goes by. Keep this in mind when you will be choosing climbing shoes.

Don't neglect the closure system

Lace-ups seem to be a universal variant as you may loosen or tighten them, if it is necessary. However, tieing of such sneakers will take quite a lot of time. So if you want to change your shoes quickly, have a closer look at velcros and slip-ons.

And finally, do follow our tips on how to choose the right climbing shoes and become a happy owner of the best pair ever!