The Best Women's Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet

The Best Women's Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet
The search for a well-fitted shoe that is inherently uncomfortable is a confusing one. Having wide feet only adds to the confusion. First consider what kind of climbing you will really be doing, as the form of various designs are made for certain functions--and some of these functions compromise comfort. Especially as you are learning to climb, don't undervalue comfort. There are some wider shoes out there for your particular climbing needs, and with time and guidance you will be able to a) judge for yourself how uncomfortable your climbing shoes really should be and b) discern a good fit from a poor one.

Unisex models

Don't feel limited by your gender in finding the perfect fit. As women's versions generally run narrower, consider a unisex model.

Contour

Some climbing shoes have a more tapered contour. Helpful for technical climbing, this allows you to toe into small pockets and seams. Because this feature eliminates toe space, it can cause disproportionate pressure on the outside toes of a wide foot. For this reason, you might prefer shoes made to be all-around more comfortable--those advertised for light climbing or for long days. Some tapered models, however, can be comfortable for the wide-footed, for example the Scarpa's Techno Lady, and some of the more casual shoes run narrower. So remember, as everyone's feet are shaped differently (wide feet or not), your success with particular brands will vary.

Identifying a good fit

Everyone has their own idea of how comfortable or uncomfortable a climbing shoe should be. When trying on shoes, be aware of pain on the sides and top of your feet. If the shoes have extra space anywhere, or if the shoe puts disproportionate pressure on one part of your foot, consider another design. If the shoe is unlined, the discomfort will lessen as the material stretches.

Lining

To increase the foot's sensitivity and flexibility on the rock, some shoes do not have interior lining. This can be good for the wide foot because the material and thinness of the shoe increases its ability to stretch--thus accommodating your foot's shape. Be sure to anticipate a half-size or so of stretch as you break these in.

Article Written By Rosemary Patterson

Write for Trails.com
  • Editor's Pick

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    Backcountry Camping Tips

    You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...

    More Backcountry Camping...
  • Popular Article

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

    Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...

    More Beach Camping...
  • Featured Video

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    Common Sense Hiking Tips

    The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.

    More Camping Basics...

Outdoor Gear & Equipment

ALL NEW Trails Gear Store powered by:

Trail Finder

US Map

Search by Keyword