Is your child starting to scale everything in sight? From the living room sofa to the playground jungle gym, that natural urge to climb is a sign of a budding adventurer. Channeling that energy into rock climbing is a fantastic way to build strength, problem-solving skills, and confidence. But to get them started on the right foot, they need the right gear—beginning with the best kids’ climbing shoes.
With Black Friday just around the corner, now is the perfect time to invest in quality equipment without breaking the bank. A well-fitting, comfortable shoe can make all the difference in a young climber’s experience. This guide will walk you through three of the best kids’ climbing shoes on the market and explain why purchasing from a trusted retailer like REI is your best bet for finding the perfect pair.
Why a Proper Fit Matters for Young Climbers
Before we jump into our top picks, let’s talk about fit. Unlike adult performance shoes that can be painfully tight, kids’ climbing shoes should prioritize comfort and support. Their feet are still growing, so cramming them into aggressive, downturned shoes can be harmful and, more importantly, make climbing feel like a chore.
A good climbing shoe for a child should be snug but not painful. Their toes should be flat or slightly curled, with no uncomfortable pressure points. Easy on-and-off designs are also a huge plus, empowering kids to manage their own gear. Shopping at a knowledgeable retailer like REI is a major advantage, as their staff can help you find that perfect balance between performance and comfort for your child’s growing feet.
Not sure where to take your kids climbing, check out our growing list of: Kid-Friendly Climbing Destinations for Families
Top 3 Kids’ Climbing Shoes to Watch for This Black Friday
Here are three excellent choices for young climbers, each offering a unique set of features perfect for different needs and skill levels. Keep an eye out for these models during REI’s Black Friday sales.
1. La Sportiva Stickit
The La Sportiva Stickit is a perennial favorite for a reason. Designed specifically for the youngest climbers, this shoe is all about comfort, adaptability, and ease of use. It’s an ideal first shoe that allows for fun, pain-free sessions at the gym or on the rock.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Highly Adjustable Closure: The Stickit features a clever hook-and-loop closure system that wraps around the heel and over the top of the foot. This allows for a huge range of adjustability, accommodating growing feet and ensuring a secure fit for a longer period.
- Comfort-First Design: With a flat, symmetrical shape, this shoe lets a child’s foot sit in a natural position. The unlined leather upper is breathable and will mold to your child’s foot over time, creating a custom-like fit.
- Durable Construction: La Sportiva is known for quality, and the Stickit is no exception. The FriXion RS rubber sole is sticky enough to provide excellent grip but durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of gym floors and outdoor rock.
This is the perfect shoe for toddlers and small children just being introduced to the sport. Its focus on comfort ensures their first climbing experiences are positive and fun.
2. Black Diamond Momentum Kids.
For the slightly older or more experienced young climber, the Black Diamond Momentum offers a step up in performance without sacrificing comfort. It borrows technology from the popular adult version but is tailored specifically for the anatomy of a child’s foot.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Engineered Knit Technology: The upper is made from a breathable, sock-like fabric that provides incredible comfort right out of the box. This material minimizes hot spots and ensures your child’s feet stay comfortable, even during longer sessions.
- Flat, Neutral Last: Like the Stickit, the Momentum is built on a flat last, which is ideal for developing feet. This shape is great for all-day wear, making it perfect for summer camps, long gym sessions, or multi-pitch family climbs.
- Simple and Secure Closure: A large hook-and-loop strap makes it easy for kids to put their shoes on and take them off by themselves. It provides a wide opening and cinches down securely for a reliable fit.
The Black Diamond Momentum is a versatile workhorse. It’s an excellent choice for kids who are climbing regularly and need a shoe that can handle everything from vertical gym walls to slabby outdoor boulders.
3. Evolv Venga
The Evolv Venga is another fantastic option that grows with your child. It cleverly combines performance features with an adjustable design, making it a smart long-term investment for parents.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Adjustable Heel Strap: The Venga’s standout feature is its adjustable heel. A simple strap allows the shoe to expand by a full size, so you get more life out of a single pair as your child’s feet grow. This is a game-changer for parents worried about constantly buying new gear.
- Split-Tongue Design: A wide, split-tongue opening and dual hook-and-loop straps make entry and exit a breeze. This design allows for maximum adjustability across the top of the foot, accommodating various foot shapes.
- Supportive Midsole: The Venga includes a full-length midsole that provides extra support for small feet. This helps reduce foot fatigue, allowing your child to climb longer and push their limits comfortably.
If you’re looking for value and longevity, the Evolv Venga is hard to beat. It’s a well-constructed shoe that provides the support and adaptability needed to keep your child climbing happily for seasons to come.
Get Ready for Black Friday at REI
Choosing the right climbing shoe is a crucial step in your child’s climbing journey. By focusing on comfort, proper fit, and durability, you can set them up for a lifetime of adventure. All three of these shoes—the La Sportiva Stickit, Black Diamond Momentum, and Evolv Venga—are excellent options that you can find at REI.
Shopping at REI gives you access to a wide selection and expert advice to ensure you make the right choice. With Black Friday deals on the horizon, it’s the perfect opportunity to snag high-quality gear at a great price. Mark your calendar and get ready to equip your little climber for their next big ascent.
