Congratulations on your new climbing shoes! If you've just purchased your first pair or upgraded to a new model, you might be wondering about the best way to break them in. Breaking in climbing shoes is an essential process that can make a significant difference in your comfort and performance on the wall.
New to Climbing Shoes?
If you're still in the process of choosing your first pair of climbing shoes, be sure to check out our guide for finding The Best Beginner's Rock Climbing Shoes. It covers everything you need to know about selecting the perfect pair for your needs.
Why Breaking In Is Important
New climbing shoes often feel tight and uncomfortable right out of the box. This is normal and even desirable to some extent, as climbing shoes should fit snugly for optimal performance. However, breaking them in properly can help mold the shoes to your feet, improving comfort without sacrificing performance.
Quick Tip
Remember, climbing shoes should be snug but not painfully tight. If your shoes are causing severe discomfort, they might be too small.
The Break-In Process: Step by Step
1. Wear Them Around the House
Start by wearing your new shoes around the house for short periods. This helps to start the stretching process gently. Aim for 15-minute sessions, gradually increasing the duration as comfort improves.
2. Use a Hairdryer (Carefully!)
For synthetic shoes, you can use a hairdryer to gently warm the material, making it more pliable. Be cautious not to overheat the glue that holds the shoe together.
3. Climb Easy Routes
Once you've worn them at home, start climbing easy routes or boulder problems. This allows you to put weight on the shoes in a climbing context without pushing them too hard.
4. Gradually Increase Difficulty
As the shoes start to feel more comfortable, gradually increase the difficulty of your climbs. This helps to break in the shoes in a way that's specific to your climbing style.
5. Use Shoe Stretchers
For particularly tight spots, consider using climbing shoe stretchers. These can help target specific areas that need more give.
Tips for Different Materials
Leather Shoes
- Leather tends to stretch more than synthetic materials.
- You can use leather conditioner to help soften the material.
- Expect leather shoes to stretch up to a full size over time.
Synthetic Shoes
- Synthetic materials stretch less than leather.
- The hairdryer method can be particularly effective for synthetic shoes.
- These shoes may require more active break-in efforts.
When to Stop
It's important to know when your shoes are sufficiently broken in. Here are some signs:
- You can wear the shoes comfortably for an entire climbing session.
- The shoes no longer cause hot spots or pain points.
- You can flex your toes slightly without discomfort.
Conclusion
Breaking in your new climbing shoes is a process that requires patience and consistency. By following these tips and listening to your feet, you'll soon have a pair of climbing shoes that fit like a glove and perform at their best. Remember, the right shoes can make a world of difference in your climbing experience. Happy climbing!