Is it a good idea to rent rock climbing shoes from sports equipment stores??

Question

Do u think it's a good idea to rent a pair of rock climbing shoes at sport check or mountain co-op?? do they rent out good ones or they rent out old wreck looking ones?? will the rock climbing shoes feel loose since a lot of people have worn them?? does normal running shoes work almost the same as rock climbing shoes if I'm not renting the rock climbing shoes?? please help me!!

Answer 1

As a climbing instructor, I'll give you a few tips about rental shoes:

- most rental shoes will be shaped for general climbing and to fit the majority of the population. Rarely will you be able to rent asymetrical shaped, pointy toed shoes for crack climbing, etc.

-  keep in mind that you will size down a climbing shoe from a street shoe - usually half to a full size or more to get a more solid fit, therefore stretched shoes are less of a concern (unless they're truly worn out, but few renters will keep these for rental)

- climbing shoes should NEVER feel/be loose

- street shoes are too loose and flexible to be worn for climbing

- rent your shoes from MEC or if in Calgary, rent them from U of C, Outdoor Center ($6)

Answer 2

Depending on the store or facility you can usually get ok shoes. I don't really like the idea though - most climbers don't wear socks with climbing shoes (myself included)...

Running shoes and climbing shoes are very different. Climbing shoes have a sole just a few mm thick designed to bend and flex easily. They are designed to tightly fit your foot, and have a smooth (no tread) sole with special high friction rubber. Many also have extra rubber along the edge and toe for edging and smearing. If you wear running shoes while climbing you will probably rip them up quite a bit, and you will not be able to perform as well.

Answer 3

if it just for once that that would be okay  but if you are planning on climbing alot then you should get your own pair.  running shoes wold be really hard to climb in.

Answer 4

depends on wear you go, different outfitters have different standards.  of course you're way better off to buy your own, they'll fit better and you have the piece of mind that no one with any funky foot problems has had there bare foot in your new shoes.

Answer 5

Most rentals are updated as the shoes wear out, but it just depends on how new their shoes are and how common your size is. Most will rent shoes with laces since you can adjust the fit more. The good part is you will find out which shoes fit your feet without buying.

No, running shoes are very soft and will not be able to grip the small edges required for rock climbing. Even a good hiking boot is better for climbing than running shoes.

I would suggest renting shoes only the first couple of climbs - if you are serious about climbing a harness and a set of rock shoes would be your first purchace. Look for a discounted version of a shoe that fits you well:

http://www.mountaingear.com/pages/produc...

Good Luck

Answer 6

You should be able to rent a decent pair of shoes from an outfitter. (if you haven't been climbing much, you may not noticed a difference anyway). Typically good outfitters sell last years shoes and restock their supply at the end of each season. As for fit, just try on a couple of different sizes, each manufacturer differs slightly in size and fit anyway. No, normal running shoes do not make for good climbing shoes. There is too much sole on them which will roll out under your foot and edges of the rock. You'd be better off wearing a heavy hiking boot or work boot. I'd just go with the rentals you'll have more fun.

Good luck climb safe and have fun