When shopping around for cheap climbing shoes it is important to remember that cheap in this case should be a synonym for inexpensive rather than the synonym for low quality. Since the success or failure of every piece of climbing equipment can lend to the outcome of an emergency it is important that equipment, including the climbing shoes, is not to blame. Also remember that cheap is also a subjective term relative to the shopper and in cases of sales, relative to the normal price of the climbing shoe.
In many instances, shopping online will bring in better savings than shopping in a retail store, but this may not be the preferable option. Before buying any climbing shoes online regardless of how inexpensive they may be, make note of the return policies offered. Whether through computer error, human error, or a combination of both, the wrong-sized shoe can wind up on your doorstep. Or perhaps it may be the right size but just a poor fit. On the other hand, a sales rep with some experience in climbing themselves might be able to make useful observations and helpful suggestions in finding the right pair of cheap climbing shoes.
Cheap climbing shoes may also be found in sales. Like cars, snow machines, and major appliances, last year’s models or styles are often discounted at the end of the year, either just before or just after the newest version is ready to hit the shelves. The only thing wrong with these inexpensive climbing shoes is that they aren’t the latest and greatest. The novice rock climber should look for an inexpensive climbing shoe with the following considerations. First, the shoe should fit skin-tight without being painful. In most instances, this will be about one size down from street shoe size. Additionally, the beginning climber may look for a shoe with some ankle support or a slightly wider toe box. And it’s important to remember that while some shoes will stretch in width, they generally do not stretch in length.
After a pair of climbing shoes is broken in up a couple of rock faces, the climber may have a better idea of what type of climbing shoe they may want to save up for. As climbs become more specialized or technical, so too will the climbing shoe and this will lead to an increase in price. Buying used climbing shoes also yields a better chance of getting climbing shoes for cheap. Since climbing shoes still aren’t something for the average public, finding them secondhand in thrift stores is not likely. Regardless of where they are bought or how much is paid for them, the most important aspect of buying cheap climbing shoes is buying a pair with a good fit that will foster the climbers’ love of rock.
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