Finding the perfect climbing shoes when you have wide feet can feel like searching for a unicorn. The wrong fit can lead to painful hotspots, reduced performance, and even long-term foot problems. But the good news is that in 2025, more manufacturers than ever are designing high-performance climbing shoes specifically for wider feet. After testing dozens of models across various climbing disciplines, we’ve compiled this definitive guide to the best climbing shoes for wide feet available this year.
Whether you’re bouldering at your local gym, tackling sport routes, or spending all day on traditional climbs, having shoes that properly fit your wide feet can make all the difference in your climbing performance and enjoyment. Our comprehensive reviews cover everything from toe box width and material stretch to performance on different terrain types, helping you find your perfect climbing partner.
Quick Comparison: Top Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet in 2025
| Shoe Name | Width Rating | Material | Closure Type | Best For | Price Range |
| La Sportiva Skwama | 4.5/5 | Leather/Microfiber | Velcro | All-Around | $160-180 |
| Scarpa Veloce | 5/5 | Synthetic | Velcro | Indoor/Gym | $140-175 |
| Scarpa Instinct VSR | 4/5 | Microsuede | Velcro | All-Around | $185-210 |
| Evolv Shaman | 4.5/5 | Synthetic | Velcro | Bouldering | $140-160 |
| Evolv Defy | 4/5 | Synthetic | Velcro | Beginners | $90-110 |
| Butora Acro | 4.5/5 | Leather | Velcro | Bouldering | $130-160 |
| La Sportiva Miura VS | 3.5/5 | Leather | Velcro | Outdoor/Sport | $140-175 |
| Mad Rock Drone | 4/5 | Synthetic | Velcro | Bouldering | $120-140 |
| La Sportiva Tarantula | 4/5 | Leather | Velcro | Beginners | $85-110 |
| Butora Altura | 4.5/5 | Leather | Lace | Trad/Crack | $140-160 |
Detailed Reviews: Best Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet in 2025
1. La Sportiva Skwama
The La Sportiva Skwama earns our Editor’s Choice award for 2025 as the best overall climbing shoe for wide feet. With its generous toe box and elasticated tongue, the Skwama accommodates wider feet without sacrificing performance. The unlined leather upper stretches and molds to your foot shape, creating a custom fit that gets more comfortable with each session.
Built on the same last as La Sportiva’s popular Solution model but with more room in the forefoot, the Skwama delivers exceptional versatility. Its moderately downturned profile and P3 (Permanent Power Platform) midsole provide enough power for steep bouldering while maintaining the sensitivity needed for technical face climbing.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 7.8 oz (220g)
- Asymmetry: Moderate
- Rubber: Vibram XS Grip2 (4mm)
- Profile: Moderately downturned
- Upper Material: Leather/Microfiber
Pros
- Incredibly versatile for all climbing styles
- Excellent sensitivity for feeling small holds
- Soft yet precise for technical climbing
- Stretches to accommodate wide feet
- Patched toe area for durability and toe hooks
Cons
- Difficult to resole due to complex design
- Leather upper may stretch more than expected
- Premium price point
The Skwama truly shines as an all-around performer for climbers with wide feet. Whether you’re sending your indoor project, working technical face routes, or tackling steep boulders, these shoes deliver consistent performance across all disciplines. The patched toe area provides excellent durability and grip for toe hooks, while the sensitive midsole lets you feel every nuance of the rock.
2. Scarpa Veloce
The Scarpa Veloce is specifically designed for gym climbing and features one of the widest toe boxes we’ve ever tested. Unlike most climbing shoes that taper to a point, the Veloce has a blunt, rounded toe shape that provides ample room for wider feet, especially around the pinky toe area.
Scarpa calls this their “relaxed performance fit last,” and it delivers exceptional comfort without sacrificing performance. The ultra-soft construction makes these shoes perfect for long gym sessions, while the highly breathable mesh tongue keeps your feet cool even during the most intense training.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 7.4 oz (210g)
- Asymmetry: Low
- Rubber: S-72 (4mm)
- Profile: Moderately downturned
- Upper Material: Synthetic
Pros
- Exceptionally comfortable wide toe box
- Amazing sensitivity for feeling small holds
- Extremely breathable and lightweight
- Excellent for smearing on volumes
- Vegan-friendly construction
Cons
- Not ideal for precise edging
- Heel cup can feel loose for some climbers
- Rubber wears down quickly on rough surfaces
For gym climbers with wide feet, the Veloce is a game-changer. The soft, sensitive construction excels on modern gym problems with volumes and slopers, while the comfortable fit allows for extended sessions without foot pain. The rounded toe box may take some getting used to, but the extra space it provides for wide feet is worth the adjustment period.
3. Scarpa Instinct VSR
The Scarpa Instinct VSR is built on Scarpa’s FV last, one of the widest and highest-volume lasts in their lineup. This makes it an excellent choice for climbers with wide feet who need a high-performance shoe. The “R” in VSR stands for “rubber,” indicating the softer XS Grip 2 compound that provides exceptional sensitivity and friction.
What sets the Instinct VSR apart is its ability to perform at a high level across various climbing styles while still accommodating wider feet. The microsuede upper provides minimal stretch, ensuring the shoe maintains its performance fit over time, while the elasticated tongue allows for easy on/off and comfort.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 8.1 oz (230g)
- Asymmetry: Moderate
- Rubber: Vibram XS Grip 2 (3.5mm)
- Profile: Moderately downturned
- Upper Material: Microsuede
Pros
- Excellent for both indoor and outdoor climbing
- Velcro/slipper hybrid for secure fit with easy on/off
- Bi-tension rand system for precise edging
- Sensitive yet supportive for technical climbing
- Durable construction that maintains shape
Cons
- Heel cup may feel too roomy for some climbers
- Single strap limits fit adjustment
- Premium price point
The Instinct VSR strikes an impressive balance between sensitivity and support, making it versatile enough for everything from technical face climbing to steep bouldering. The moderate downturn and bi-tension rand system provide excellent edging power, while the softer rubber allows for sensitivity on small holds and smearing on volumes.
4. Evolv Shaman
Evolv has long been known for producing climbing shoes that accommodate wider feet, and the Shaman is their flagship model for aggressive bouldering and steep sport climbing. Co-designed by climbing legend Chris Sharma, the Shaman features Evolv’s “Love Bump” and “Knuckle Box” technologies that work together to position your foot for maximum power on steep terrain.
The third-generation Shaman offers improved edging capability while maintaining the wide fit that has made this shoe popular among climbers with broader feet. The synthetic upper provides minimal stretch, ensuring the performance fit remains consistent throughout the life of the shoe.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 8.5 oz (241g)
- Asymmetry: High
- Rubber: TRAX SAS (4.2mm)
- Profile: Aggressively downturned
- Upper Material: Synthetic
Pros
- Excellent for steep bouldering and sport climbing
- Love Bump technology positions toes for power
- Dark Spine heel provides secure heel hooks
- Three-strap closure system for precise fit
- Vegan-friendly construction
Cons
- Love Bump can make smearing less effective
- Synthetic materials can develop odor quickly
- Not ideal for vertical or slab climbing
For boulderers with wide feet, the Shaman delivers exceptional performance on steep terrain. The aggressive downturn and asymmetrical shape provide excellent hooking power on overhangs, while the stiff midsole offers support for pushing off small footholds. The three-strap closure system allows for a customized fit, making it easier to accommodate wider feet.
5. Evolv Defy
The Evolv Defy has been a popular choice for beginners with wide feet for years, and the 2025 model continues this tradition with some notable improvements. The flat, neutral last provides all-day comfort, while the padded tongue and breathable mesh lining prevent hotspots during long climbing sessions.
What makes the Defy stand out from other beginner shoes is the quality of its rubber. Unlike many entry-level models that use harder, less sticky compounds, the Defy features the same TRAX SAS rubber used on Evolv’s high-end models, providing excellent grip and durability.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 7.6 oz (215g)
- Asymmetry: Low
- Rubber: TRAX SAS (4.2mm)
- Profile: Flat
- Upper Material: Synthetic
Pros
- Excellent comfort for all-day climbing
- High-quality rubber at an entry-level price
- Durable construction for developing footwork
- Wide toe box accommodates broader feet
- Vegan-friendly materials
Cons
- Limited performance on steep terrain
- Lacks sensitivity for technical climbing
- Synthetic upper can develop odor quickly
For beginners with wide feet, the Defy offers an excellent balance of comfort, durability, and performance. The flat profile and neutral last make it ideal for developing proper footwork, while the sticky rubber provides confidence on a variety of holds. As your climbing progresses, you may eventually want something more aggressive, but the Defy will serve you well through your early climbing journey.
6. Butora Acro
Butora has made a name for itself by offering shoes in both narrow and wide fits, and the Acro is their flagship performance model. The wide version (orange) provides ample room for broader feet while maintaining the aggressive performance characteristics that make this shoe popular among boulderers and sport climbers.
What sets the Acro apart is its value proposition. While not the cheapest shoe on our list, it offers high-end performance features at a more accessible price point than many comparable models. The split-leather upper provides a good balance of comfort and minimal stretch, while the Neo Fuse rubber delivers excellent grip on a variety of surfaces.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 8.3 oz (235g)
- Asymmetry: High
- Rubber: Neo Fuse (4mm)
- Profile: Aggressively downturned
- Upper Material: Split-leather/Synthetic
Pros
- Available in specific wide fit (orange)
- Excellent edging power for the price
- Aggressive downturn for steep climbing
- High-tension heel for secure heel hooks
- Durable construction that maintains shape
Cons
- Heel cup can feel loose for some climbers
- Less sensitive than softer models
- Break-in period can be uncomfortable
The Butora Acro in wide fit (orange) offers an excellent option for climbers with wider feet who want aggressive performance without breaking the bank. The stiff midsole provides excellent support for edging, while the downturned profile excels on steep terrain. The high-friction rubber toe patch enhances toe-hooking capability, making this a versatile shoe for both indoor and outdoor climbing.
7. La Sportiva Miura VS
While La Sportiva is often associated with narrower lasts, the Miura VS offers a higher-volume fit than many of their other models, making it a viable option for climbers with moderately wide feet. The Velcro version (VS) features a partially lined leather upper that provides more room and stretch compared to the fully lined lace-up version.
The Miura VS has been a staple in the climbing world for decades, and for good reason. Its precise edging capability is legendary, making it the go-to shoe for technical face climbing on small holds. The P3 (Permanent Power Platform) midsole maintains the shoe’s downturned shape throughout its lifespan, ensuring consistent performance.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 8.0 oz (227g)
- Asymmetry: Moderate
- Rubber: Vibram XS Edge (4mm)
- Profile: Moderately downturned
- Upper Material: Leather
Pros
- Exceptional edging performance
- Partially lined leather upper stretches to fit wider feet
- Durable construction that maintains shape
- Versatile for various rock types
- Proven design with decades of refinement
Cons
- Not as wide as dedicated wide-fit models
- Break-in period can be uncomfortable
- Limited toe-hooking capability
For outdoor sport climbing on vertical to slightly overhanging terrain, the Miura VS is hard to beat. Its precise edging capability allows you to stand confidently on the smallest footholds, while the moderately downturned profile provides enough hook for steeper sections. The leather upper will stretch and mold to your feet over time, making this a viable option for climbers with moderately wide feet.
8. Mad Rock Drone
The Mad Rock Drone is available in both high and low-volume versions, with the high-volume model offering an excellent option for climbers with wide feet. The 3D molded heel is designed to be expandable, accommodating wider heels, while the Syn Flex upper and stretchy tongue provide ample room in the toe box.
What makes the Drone stand out is its aggressive performance at a more accessible price point than many comparable models. It’s currently the most downturned shoe in the Mad Rock lineup, making it ideal for steep bouldering and sport climbing, while the Science Friction rubber provides excellent grip on both rock and plastic.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 8.2 oz (232g)
- Asymmetry: High
- Rubber: Science Friction 3.0 (4.2mm)
- Profile: Aggressively downturned
- Upper Material: Synthetic
Pros
- Available in high-volume fit for wide feet
- Excellent value for performance features
- Aggressive downturn for steep climbing
- Expandable heel cup for wider heels
- Vegan-friendly construction
Cons
- Less refined fit than premium models
- Rubber not as sticky as top-tier compounds
- Limited sensitivity for technical climbing
For boulderers with wide feet on a budget, the Mad Rock Drone in high volume offers an excellent combination of performance and value. The aggressive downturn and asymmetrical shape excel on steep terrain, while the massive toe rand provides excellent coverage for toe hooks. The synthetic upper maintains its shape throughout the life of the shoe, ensuring consistent performance.
9. La Sportiva Tarantula
The La Sportiva Tarantula has become a staple in climbing gyms worldwide as the go-to beginner shoe, and it’s particularly well-suited for newer climbers with wider feet. The unlined leather upper stretches to accommodate various foot shapes, while the flat, neutral last keeps your toes in a comfortable position for all-day climbing.
What makes the Tarantula stand out from other beginner shoes is its balance of comfort, durability, and performance at an affordable price point. The FriXion RS rubber provides decent grip while being more durable than stickier compounds, making it ideal for beginners who are still developing their footwork.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 8.5 oz (241g)
- Asymmetry: Low
- Rubber: FriXion RS (5mm)
- Profile: Flat
- Upper Material: Leather
Pros
- Excellent comfort for all-day climbing
- Leather upper stretches to accommodate wide feet
- Thick rubber for durability while learning
- Affordable price point for beginners
- Versatile for various climbing styles
Cons
- Limited performance on steep terrain
- Less sticky rubber than performance models
- Lacks precision for technical climbing
For beginners with wide feet, the Tarantula offers an excellent introduction to climbing. The comfortable fit and durable construction make it ideal for developing proper footwork, while the affordable price means you won’t feel guilty about wearing through your first pair of shoes. As your climbing progresses, you may eventually want something more performance-oriented, but the Tarantula will serve you well as you learn the fundamentals.
10. Butora Altura
The Butora Altura is designed specifically for traditional climbing and offers an excellent option for wide-footed climbers tackling crack systems. Often compared to the popular La Sportiva TC Pro, the Altura features a flat-lasted profile with a stiff midsole that provides excellent support for all-day climbing on vertical terrain.
What sets the Altura apart for wide-footed climbers is its roomier fit compared to other trad shoes. The high-top design provides ankle protection for wider cracks, while the padded tongue and leather upper offer comfort during long days on the wall. The Neo Fuse rubber provides excellent grip on various rock types, from granite to sandstone.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 9.0 oz (255g)
- Asymmetry: Low
- Rubber: Neo Fuse (4mm)
- Profile: Flat
- Upper Material: Leather
Pros
- Excellent for crack climbing and all-day comfort
- High-top design protects ankles in wider cracks
- Stiff midsole reduces foot fatigue on long routes
- Padded tongue for comfort during jamming
- Durable construction for extended use
Cons
- Limited performance on steep terrain
- Too stiff for sensitive smearing
- Bulky profile for narrow cracks
For trad climbers with wide feet, the Butora Altura offers an excellent combination of comfort, support, and protection. The flat profile and stiff midsole provide a stable platform for standing on small edges during long pitches, while the high-top design protects your ankles during jamming. The leather upper will stretch and mold to your feet over time, creating a custom fit that’s perfect for all-day adventures.
How to Choose the Best Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet
Understanding Width in Climbing Shoes
When shopping for climbing shoes for wide feet, it’s important to understand that width can vary in different parts of the shoe. Some climbers have wide forefeet but narrow heels, while others have wide feet throughout. Look for shoes that specifically mention a wider toe box or forefoot area, as this is where most wide-footed climbers experience discomfort.
Many manufacturers now offer specific wide or high-volume versions of their popular models. Brands like Butora explicitly label their shoes as wide (often color-coded), while others like Scarpa and Evolv are generally known for producing shoes with wider lasts. La Sportiva, traditionally known for narrower fits, has several models that work well for moderately wide feet, especially in their velcro versions which often have more volume than their lace-up counterparts.
Material Considerations
The upper material of a climbing shoe significantly impacts how it will fit wide feet over time. Leather uppers will stretch up to a full size with use, molding to your foot shape and potentially providing relief for wider feet. Synthetic materials, on the other hand, maintain their original dimensions with minimal stretch.
For wide-footed climbers, unlined leather shoes often provide the best custom fit after breaking in. Partially lined leather offers a good compromise between stretch and maintaining the shoe’s performance shape. Synthetic shoes with strategic stretch zones or elastic panels can also accommodate wider feet while maintaining a consistent fit throughout the shoe’s lifespan.
Closure Systems
The closure system can make a significant difference for wide-footed climbers. Lace-up shoes offer the most adjustability, allowing you to loosen the laces in the forefoot while keeping the heel secure. Velcro closures provide convenience and can work well if the straps are long enough to accommodate wider feet. Slipper-style shoes with elastic openings can be challenging for wide feet during entry and exit but may provide a comfortable fit once on.
Performance Considerations
Wide-footed climbers often face a trade-off between performance and comfort. Aggressive, downturned shoes concentrate power in the toe but can be particularly uncomfortable for wide feet. Look for models with a wider toe box that still maintain the performance characteristics you need for your climbing style.
For technical face climbing, prioritize shoes with good edging capability and a precise toe box that’s still accommodating for width. For steep bouldering and sport climbing, look for aggressive shoes with enough volume in the forefoot to prevent painful pressure points. For crack climbing, flat-lasted shoes with a stiff midsole and room for your toes to lay flat will provide the best combination of comfort and performance.
Sizing for Wide Feet
Sizing climbing shoes for wide feet can be challenging, as simply going up in size often results in shoes that are too long while still being too narrow. Instead, look for models that come in wide versions or have lasts known to accommodate wider feet. When trying on shoes, your toes should reach the end of the toe box without excessive curling or pressure, and there should be no painful pressure points across the width of your foot.
Remember that performance climbing shoes should fit snugly without being painfully tight. Many climbers with wide feet find that sizing down less than the typical recommendation works better for them. For example, if a shoe is typically sized 1-1.5 sizes down from street shoe size, wide-footed climbers might only size down 0.5-1 size to accommodate their width while maintaining performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Climbing Shoes for Wide Feet
Are wider climbing shoes better for bunions?
Yes, wider climbing shoes are generally better for climbers with bunions. Look for shoes with a wider toe box and softer upper materials that won’t put pressure on the bunion area. Models with stretch panels or unlined leather uppers can be particularly helpful as they mold to your foot shape over time. Some climbers with bunions also find that asymmetrical shoes with the big toe positioned more centrally can reduce pressure on the bunion.
Brands like Evolv, Scarpa, and Butora (wide fit) are often recommended for climbers with bunions. You might also consider shoes with a velcro closure that allows for more adjustability in the forefoot area. In severe cases, some climbers work with cobblers to stretch specific areas of their climbing shoes to accommodate bunions.
How should wide climbing shoes fit?
Wide climbing shoes should fit snugly without causing pain or excessive pressure points across the width of your foot. Your toes should reach the end of the toe box without being painfully curled, and there should be no dead space or air pockets inside the shoe. The heel should feel secure without slipping during heel hooks, and the shoe should feel supportive across the arch.
Unlike standard-width shoes, wide-footed climbers often need to size down less from their street shoe size to achieve the right performance fit. Remember that leather shoes will stretch up to a full size with use, while synthetic shoes will maintain their original dimensions. For the best fit, try on multiple sizes and models, ideally at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen from activity.
Which climbing shoe brands are best for wide feet?
Several brands are known for producing climbing shoes that accommodate wider feet:
- Scarpa: Generally known for wider lasts across their lineup, with the Instinct series and Veloce being particularly good for wide feet.
- Evolv: Their shoes typically have a wider toe box, with the Shaman and Defy being popular choices.
- Butora: Offers specific wide-fit versions (usually orange) of their models, including the Acro and Altura.
- Mad Rock: Their high-volume models like the Drone accommodate wider feet well.
- Five Ten: Some models like the NIAD VCS offer a roomier fit for wider feet.
La Sportiva, while traditionally known for narrower fits, has several models that work for moderately wide feet, particularly their velcro versions which often have more volume than their lace-up counterparts.
Can I stretch climbing shoes to fit wide feet?
Yes, climbing shoes can be stretched to some extent, but it’s better to start with a shoe that’s already close to your foot width. Leather shoes will naturally stretch with use, especially if they’re unlined. You can accelerate this process by wearing them around the house with thick socks or using shoe stretchers designed for climbing shoes.
For targeted stretching, some climbers use plastic bags filled with water placed inside the shoes and then frozen, which causes the water to expand and stretch the shoe in specific areas. Professional resolers and cobblers can also stretch climbing shoes using specialized equipment.
However, it’s important to note that synthetic shoes have very limited stretch potential, and excessive stretching can compromise the performance characteristics of any climbing shoe. It’s always better to find a shoe that fits your foot width from the start rather than relying on significant stretching.
How long do climbing shoes for wide feet last?
The lifespan of climbing shoes depends on several factors, including frequency of use, climbing style, foot technique, and the environments you climb in. On average, a pair of climbing shoes will last between 3-9 months of regular use (2-3 times per week) before needing a resole.
Wide-footed climbers might experience faster wear on the inside edges of their shoes due to increased pressure in these areas. Improving your footwork precision can significantly extend the life of your shoes. When the rubber begins to wear thin or develops holes that expose the rand or upper material, it’s time for a resole.
Most climbing shoes can be resoled 2-3 times before the upper materials wear out or the shoe loses its structural integrity. High-quality shoes with durable uppers, like those made with leather or premium synthetic materials, tend to last longer and accept multiple resoles better than budget models.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Wide-Fit Climbing Shoe
Finding the right climbing shoes for wide feet is a personal journey that depends on your specific foot shape, climbing style, and performance needs. The good news is that in 2025, climbers with wide feet have more options than ever before, with many manufacturers offering specific wide-fit models or designing their shoes with more accommodating lasts.
Our top pick, the La Sportiva Skwama, offers an exceptional balance of performance and comfort for wide feet across various climbing disciplines. For indoor specialists, the Scarpa Veloce provides unmatched comfort with its uniquely wide toe box. Boulderers will appreciate the Evolv Shaman’s performance on steep terrain, while trad climbers will find the Butora Altura ideal for all-day comfort on multi-pitch routes.
Remember that the perfect fit is subjective, and what works for one wide-footed climber might not work for another. Whenever possible, try on multiple models and sizes before purchasing, and consider the material, closure system, and performance characteristics that best match your climbing needs. With the right shoes on your feet, you’ll be able to focus on the climb ahead rather than the discomfort below.
Ready to find your perfect climbing shoes?
Check out our Editor’s Choice for wide feet in 2025
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