Climbing shoes?

I am going climbing for the first time using actual climbing shoes. I have heard some mixed advice and was wondering what you all thought.





sock or no socks with climbing shoes?

Climbing shoes?
It really depends on where you are climbing and how long you are going to be wearing the shoes.





If you are just doing some indoor climbing or some short sport routes, I would say "no socks". This is the best place to break in the shoes, and wearing no socks will help heat up the shoes so they really mold and fit your feet.





Also, it depends on how hard the route is - very hard routes will be harder if you wear socks. An easier route won't be much problem is you wear socks and may be more comfortable if it is very long.





If you are doing a full day multi-pitch climb outside, I would break in your shoes (as above) first and then I would consider a VERY THIN sock. Most climbing shoes don't cover the ankle - abrasions, cold, sun burn, etc can be a problem that can be cured by a very thin sock. I actually use the same shoes, loosen the laces up a little and use a very thin "liner" sock and it works very nicely for long routes.





Good Luck
Reply:You have to take into consideration a couple of things. If your just getting into the sport then i would suggest wearing NO socks. The shoe should be VERY snug and when you climb the shoe will actually form to your foot. A sock can hinder the forming of the shoe. I have to situations in witch i use socks when climbing one is when its very cold i will wear a pair of socks to keep warm, but the shoes that i use for cold days with socks are just for that nothing else. when i have a full day of hard scrambling with some mixed climbs in between i will use a slightly over sized pair of shoes with socks so that i can comfortable climb and hike when i need to.





so for everyday shoes that you climb i would very much recommend NOT using socks. and in the future when you buy shoes try them on without socks to get a better fit
Reply:Definitely NO socks! Climbing shoes work best when they hold tight to your foot. A sock will add a slippery layer between the shoe and your skin, allowing the shoe to move when it should be holding. Shoes should fit tight to your bare feet. Your heel should be locked securely and your toes should be touching the front of the shoe. Some climbers say that the shoes should be so tight that they hurt to wear. I suggest you buy shoes that are very snug and avoid the pain until your level of climbing reaches a higher point. Having said all of this, I have worn socks inside my climbing shoes when climbing in sub zero temperatures.



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