Velcro vs. Laces Climbing Shoes

Are you looking for your first pair of climbing shoes but don’t know if you want Velcro or laces? Are you tired of using the blown-out rental shoes at the gym? Maybe you don’t like sticking your feet into shoes that others have already used, or you just want a pair that fits your feet better. Whatever the case, you’re pulling the trigger and getting your first pair of climbing shoes! Climbing shoes have come a long way since their inception, evolving from simple leather boots to the specialized footwear we have today. One of the key advancements in climbing shoe design is the introduction of different closure systems, such as Velcro and laces.

But hold on. Are you leaning towards Velcro or laces? What’s the real difference? At first glance, they might seem quite similar. You could probably get away with picking any pair just because they’re finally yours! But if you're looking for that perfect fit, it's time to dive deeper. Here's a guide to the unique features of Velcro and laced climbing shoes, empowering you to make the best decision for your climbing journey.

Velcro vs Laces Climbing Shoes: Is One Better Than the Other?

Just like the endless debate over the best climbing route, the question of whether Velcro or laced climbing shoes are superior is a matter of personal preference. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages; it’s up to you to weigh them and decide which closure system suits your climbing style and comfort level best.

If you don’t care which closure system you have on your first pair of climbing shoes, continue reading if you find something that changes your mind. You may become highly passionate about shoe laces!

Velcro Climbing Shoes

Everybody knows that familiar “snap” sound when pulling Velcro apart. But did you know that Velcro is just the trade name for hook-and-loop fastener materials? Since its invention, it’s often used as a closure system for various things and has sped up strapping processes.

Hook-and-loop fasteners work by adhering to each other. They are only separated by using force to pull them apart. Each strip consists of specially constructed material with countless tiny loops designed to receive and hold each other.

Here are a few pros and cons of Velcro climbing shoes for you to decide if you’d like them on your first pair:

Pros:

● Quick and Easy. Velcro is a straightforward material that includes pulling the strap tight and pressing it into the other side.

● Adjustable Fit: You can tighten your straps as much or as little as you like, resulting in a customized fit around your foot.

Cons:

● Reliability and Longevity: These hook-and-loop strips can become clogged with dirt and debris, reducing their strength.

● Replacing: Replacing the Velcro strips is time-consuming and requires some sewing knowledge.

Laced Climbing Shoes

Shoelaces are one of the oldest inventions in history. They’ve been holding shoes together for thousands of years. So why fix what’s not broken? Originally made of leather or rawhide, shoelaces have come a long way throughout history.

As stated above, it’s your personal preference whether to buy Velcro or laced climbing shoes. Here are a few pros and cons of shoelaces.

Pros:

● Easily Replaceable: Shoelaces break or fray, making them harder to use. But replacing shoelaces is much simpler and quicker to do than replacing Velcro:

● Adjustable Fit: Velcro can adjust to fit your foot, but not as much as laces. Laces allow you to tighten even more specific areas than Velcro, making your fit entirely customizable.

Cons:

● More Time-Consuming: Lacing up and removing laced climbing shoes takes more time than Velcro. If you have a pair of climbing shoes that are slightly too small, it can feel like forever when you try to take them off.

● Can Come Untied: Shoelaces can come untied while climbing, which throws all the effort of customizing your fit out the window.

Look, there is no correct answer when deciding between Velcro and laces when choosing a pair of climbing shoes. You can only weigh the pros and cons. Laces might be the best option if you’re likely to spend all day trad climbing in your shoes, as they offer a more customizable fit and can be adjusted throughout the day. If you’re bouldering or sport climbing and want to remove your shoes after each pitch or try, Velcro could be your style, as they are quick and easy to put on and take off. The type of climbing you plan to do can also influence your choice of closure system, so it's always a good idea to consider your climbing style when choosing your first pair of climbing shoes.

Many climbers are incredibly passionate about the closure system of their shoes. The best way to determine your preference is to try each style!