If you’ve ever been rock climbing, you know that choosing the right gear for the job is essential. From the harness and belay device, to the shoes that you wear, the type of gear that you have can make a world of difference. When it comes to footwear, most rock climbers turn to specialized rock climbing shoes. However, some have wondered whether hiking sandals could also be used for this purpose.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Hiking Sandals for Rock Climbing?
The main advantage of wearings hiking sandals for rock climbing is comfort. Hiking sandals are designed to be light and breathable, which makes them great for extended wear times. Furthermore, they are easy to put on and take off, and their open design allows your feet to breathe, which can help with long days of climbing.
On the other hand, hiking sandals lack the technical features and support of specialized rock climbing shoes. This can make them less precise when trying to navigate small holds or foot placements. Hiking sandals also lack the grip of rock climbing shoes, meaning that they can be less secure on difficult routes. Lastly, hiking sandals are not designed to be as durable as rock climbing shoes, meaning that they may not last as long.
How Rock Climbing Shoes Differ from Hiking Sandals
Rock climbing shoes are designed specifically for the task of rock climbing. This means that they feature a very precise fit that hugs the contours of your feet. The toes and heels are usually downturned, giving climbers added performance when maneuvering around small holds. The rubber sole of rock climbing shoes is designed to be grippy and provide excellent traction on any surface.
The materials that make up rock climbing shoes are also designed for durability. The leather upper is able to withstand long days of wear and tear, while the soles are often reinforced to provide extra traction on tough climbs.
Benefits of Properly Fitting Rock Climbing Shoes
The most important feature of rock climbing shoes is a good fit. A properly fitting pair of rock climbing shoes should feel snug on your feet without being too tight. If your climbing shoes are too loose, your feet will slip around too much while performing difficult maneuvers, potentially leading to injury. On the other hand, if your shoes are too tight, they could start to interfere with your blood circulation, causing you pain and discomfort.
When it comes to finding a good fit, it is best to try on several different sizes and styles to find the right one for you. It is also important to make sure that your toes have enough room to spread out in the toe box of your shoe while climbing. Lastly, it is important to break in your shoes before climbing in them to ensure that they fit properly and conform to your feet.
What to Look for when Buying Rock Climbing Shoes
When it comes to buying rock climbing shoes, there are a few things to look for. First and foremost, it is important to find a pair that fits you properly and feels comfortable on your feet. Next, it is important to find shoes that feature a good grip for when you are navigating difficult routes. Lastly, it is important to look for shoes with a durable upper material such as leather or synthetic materials.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Rock Climbing Shoes
Taking care of your rock climbing shoes is essential if you want them to last a long time. After each use, it is important to wipe down your shoes with a damp cloth, removing any dirt or debris that may be stuck in them. It is also important to store your shoes in mesh bags away from direct heat sources, such as radiators or fireplaces.
Furthermore, it is important to avoid getting your shoes wet and letting them dry out naturally after they do get wet. Storing your shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct heat sources is also important in order to maintain the shape and fit of your shoes over time.
What to Wear with Your Hiking Sandals When Rock Climbing
It is important to consider what to wear when rock climbing in hiking sandals. It is important to wear ankle socks or padded socks under your sandals in order to provide cushioning and help prevent blisters from forming on long hikes and climbs. It can also be helpful to wear light weight pants or shorts over your hiking sandals in order to protect your feet from sharp rocks or branches.
Other Options for Footwear in Rock Climbing
Aside from hiking sandals and rock climbing shoes, there are other options available when it comes to footwear while rock climbing. Approach shoes are designed for both rock climbing and hiking and feature a soft sole with great grip, as well as breathable upper materials that protect while providing comfort.
Another option is approaches such as barefoot rock climbing where climbers wear no shoes at all. This can help climbers feel more connected with the environment while providing outstanding control and grip on the rock face.
Safety Considerations When Wearing Hiking Sandals for Rock Climbing
When considering whether or not hiking sandals are suitable for rock climbing it is important to take into account safety considerations. Hiking sandals lack the features and durability of proper rock climbing gear which can lead to slips and falls while on difficult routes. Additionally, they can be injured more easily by sharp rocks or other hazards while climbing which could potentially lead to serious injury.
Overall, hikers sandals should only be used for rock climbing if you are willing to accept the increased risk of injury associated with using such gear. Generally speaking, it is best for experienced climbers who have a good handle on their footing and routes.
