La Sportiva Shoes

How long will you be on the trail?

• Hiking shoes: day hikes or ultralight backpacking
• Hiking boots: multi-day treks with heavier loads

What upper is right for you?

• Leather: water- and abrasion-resistant, durable
• Synthetic: lightweight, break in easily, dry faster

Look at the lugs

• Deep, thick lugs improve grip
• Wider lug spaces sheds mud and offer good traction

Check crampon compatibility
Mountaineering and winter hiking may call for crampons. Narrow your search for boots with crampon compatibility.

Types

• Neutral: Comfort for long routes and days; great for beginners
• Moderate: Balances comfort and performance; ideal for gym climbing, sport routes and all-around versatility
• Aggressive: Sharply downturned toes for power and precision. Best for overhung routes, bouldering, single-pitch sport climbs.

Key features

• Shoe closure: Choose laces, straps or slip-ons
• Uppers: Synthetic (minimal stretch, consistent fit); lined leather (can stretch up to 1/2 size but keeps its shape); unlined leather (can stretch up to a full size for a custom fit)
• Last: The foot-shaped model around which a shoe is built. Most climbing shoes are slip-lasted (more sensitive); board-lasted are stiffer

Fit tips

• Shop later in the day—feet may swell
• Ensure toes lie flat or curve gently; avoid painful bunching
• Try on in person for best fit

Climb on!