Looking for your next go-to climbing shoe? Whether you’re crushing comp-style volumes indoors or tackling multi-pitch routes outdoors, Zach from Ridge and River is back with his favorite climbing shoes of 2025. After testing a wide range of models over the last year, Zach highlights what’s working, what’s not, and which shoes he’s actually grabbing for his sessions.
Pro tip: Most of these shoes were tested at Adventus Climbing—Zach’s go-to climbing gym and a top-tier facility right here in Toledo, Ohio.
If you're local, be sure to check them out to get some time on the wall in the same setting these shoes were tested. And of course, swing by Ridge and River to try them on in person—we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your foot and climbing style.
1. La Sportiva Tarantulace (Men's) | Women’s Version
Best for: Beginners, all-day comfort, all-around climbing
If you’re just getting into climbing or want something reliable for long sessions, the Tarantulace is hard to beat. It’s affordable, comfortable, and durable—everything you need from a neutral-profile lace-up.
Zach’s take:
“It’s nothing flashy, but it does everything well. Super reliable for all kinds of climbing.”
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Neutral profile with lace closure
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Durable friction rubber
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Built for long sessions and multi-pitch routes
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Great value for entry-level climbers
2. Butora Acro Comp
Best for: Indoor bouldering, steep sport climbing
A true performance beast, the Acro Comp is softer and more sensitive than the original Acro—ideal for aggressive movement on volumes and overhangs.
Zach’s take:
“Really killer on volumes and overhangs. A soft shoe that lets you really dig into small holds.”
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Aggressive downturn profile
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Velcro closure, slipper-like fit
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Sensitive & flexible for steep terrain
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Neo Fuse rubber for serious grip
🏕️ 3. Butora Rubicon
Best for: Trad climbing, moderate multi-pitch, gym training
If you like a durable, protective shoe for long days, the Rubicon is your tank. Think crack climbing, long days on the wall, or hours in the gym.
Zach’s take:
“Built like a tank. Comfortable all-day shoe that molds to your foot over time.”
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Neutral-to-slight downturn
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Dual Velcro + slipper fit
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Neo Fuse rubber
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Unlined leather upper molds to your feet
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Flat profile = solid edging + comfort
🏛️ 4. Black Diamond Method S (Men’s) | Women’s Version
Best for: Indoor bouldering, steep terrain on a budget
A soft, slipper-style option with Black Diamond’s NeoFriction rubber, the Method S is great for new climbers transitioning into more aggressive shoes.
Zach’s take:
“A great entry point into softer comp-style shoes—without breaking the bank.”
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Moderately aggressive profile
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Velcro + slipper hybrid design
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Budget-friendly comp shoe for gym climbers
🧦 5. Evolv Zenist
Best for: Indoor comp climbing, techy footwork
The Zenist is for climbers who want barefoot-like sensitivity with enough rubber for toe power.
Zach’s take:
“Feels like a wetsuit. Super sensitive and excellent for techy footwork and smearing.”
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Single Velcro + slipper design
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TRAX SAS rubber
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Built for indoor comp-style bouldering
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Soft, sensitive, and minimalist
🦈 6. Mad Rock Shark 3 HV
Best for: Wide feet, aggressive bouldering
If you’ve struggled with narrow climbing shoes, the Shark 3 HV is a game changer. Wide-foot friendly and aggressive for steep bouldering.
Zach’s take:
“Couldn’t get into the Drone—but this fits great. Finally, a Mad Rock shoe that works for wide feet.”
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High volume fit
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Science Friction 3.0 rubber
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Single strap + slipper design
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Solid heel tension and toe rubber
🧠 7. Scarpa Instinct VS
Best for: Versatile climbing indoors & out
Scarpa’s Instinct line is a staple among pros and weekend warriors alike. You’ll see them on tough ascents from the gym to the crag.
Zach’s take:
“Crazy sensitivity, killer toe hook, and great rubber. Just a legendary line of shoes.”
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Multiple closure styles available
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Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber
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Powerful blend of stiffness and sensitivity
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Ideal for sport, bouldering, and more
🥇 8. Scarpa Drago
Best for: Competition climbing, indoor bouldering
The Drago is everywhere in competition climbing—and for good reason. Ultra-sensitive, aggressive, and wildly precise.
Zach’s take:
“Not comfortable, but insanely precise. Feels like second skin—perfect for comps.”
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One-strap Velcro + slipper
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Vibram XS Grip 2 rubber
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Ultra-soft and sticky
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Built for comp-style bouldering and techy terrain
🧗 Bonus Tip: Where to Climb and Gear Up in Toledo
All of these shoes were put through their paces at Adventus Climbing—an incredible local gym right here in Toledo. Whether you're brand new to the sport or pushing into higher grades, Adventus has the terrain and community to help you progress.
And when it comes to climbing gear? Ridge and River is your local HQ. Come try these shoes in person and get expert help dialing in your fit.
📍 Visit our retail store in Toledo, Ohio: Ridge and River
🎥 Watch the full review video on YouTube: Zach’s Favorite Climbing Shoes of 2025
👉 Follow us on Instagram for gear drops and climbing content: @ridgeandrivergear
👉 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more reviews: Ridge and River YouTube
Thinking about upgrading your climbing kit? Don’t forget to use code YOUTUBE10 at checkout on ridgeandriver.com for 10% off your next pair of climbing shoes.
We’ll see you at the gym—or on the wall. 💪🧗♂️
