The Scarpa Helix Rock Shoes are perfect for beginners. The sole is flat, which makes for safer landings. The shoes are almost symmetric (very little inward curve), allowing the feet to gain strength without strain. The heels offer solid support with little tension, which prevents injury when starting out. Laces allow a more custom, snug fit. The leather uppers are more comfortable than synthetic.
But keep in mind that it’s a very good idea to start out with rental shoes. Renting for the first 3 – 4 bouldering sessions provides enough experience to have a fair idea of what to look for when buying your first pair of climbing shoes.
For example, after 3 bouldering sessions with rental shoes, I learned that a velcro closure creates bulk and friction over a tender area, and that the air space between the toes and the side of the shoe made some narrow footholds impossible to use. So I prioritized these concerns when selecting my own shoes.
Climbing shoes, especially the first pair, should be purchased in person whenever possible. However, if there is no climbing store in your area, the shoes are available on Amazon. The women’s Scarpa Helix Rock Shoes are available on Amazon here, the men’s here.
I purchased in person, following the experienced sales person’s advice. The Scarpa shoes that fit well turned out to be the same size as my regular shoe size. For everyday shoes, I wear US 7.5 to 8. Climbing shoes should be snug but not painful, and the Scarpa shoes that provided this snug fit were Euro size 40.5, which falls approximately between US 7.5 and 8.
The Scarpa Helix Rock Shoes have a slim build, and are more suitable for narrow feet.
Climbing tape can be useful with new climbing shoes. For example, because of thin skin on the back of my heels, I will be using Metolius climbing tape until the shoes have softened with use.
To check out the Metolius climbing tape, listed on Amazon, please click here.