Finding the right climbing shoe often feels like a quest worthy of its own epic saga. You search for that mythical blend of precision, power, and—dare we ask?—comfort. For those of us navigating the vertical world while committed to a vegan lifestyle, the quest adds another layer. Historically, leather shoes dominated the climbing wall, with their leather upper construction and occasional use of animal-derived glues. It wasn’t always easy finding gear aligning with our ethics and delivering the performance needed to push grades.
But times are changing. The landscape of vegan climbing shoes has exploded, moving far beyond niche offerings. Major brands now proudly display vegan credentials. This shift comes from ethical demand and the realization that modern synthetic materials offer incredible high performance, sometimes surpassing traditional counterparts. Forget the outdated notion that choosing vegan means compromising on the send. Today, some of the most cutting-edge, high-performance shoes are free of animal products.
This guide is your topo map to navigating this exciting terrain. We’ll dissect what makes a vegan shoe truly vegan, explore key factors in your choice, and spotlight some of the absolute best climbing shoes available—from comfortable all-day cruisers to aggressive shoe powerhouses for the steepest projects. Whether you’re a veteran refining your quiver or a newcomer, finding exceptional vegan climbing shoes is more achievable than ever. Let’s rack up.
Peeling Back the Layers: What Makes a Climbing Shoe Vegan?
It seems straightforward, but the details—or perhaps, the adhesives—matter. For a climbing shoe to be genuinely vegan, two primary conditions must apply:
- No Animal-Derived Upper Materials: This is the obvious part. Traditional shoes frequently use leather (suede or finished) for the main body. Vegan alternatives swap this for synthetic uppers. Common synthetic materials include:
- Microfiber/Microsuede: Mimics suede’s feel but offers minimal stretch and consistent shape retention over the life of the shoe. Brands like La Sportiva (with their SkinLike™ insole), Scarpa, Tenaya, and Ocun use various microfiber constructions.
- Engineered Knits: Popularized by Black Diamond, knit uppers offer exceptional breathability and a sock-like fit.
- Other Synthetics: Various proprietary textiles optimized for durability or breathability. Evolv heavily relies on its well-regarded synthetic uppers across its vegan range. Eliminating leather also sidesteps the environmental impact associated with the tanning process.
- No Animal-Derived Glues: This less visible component is critical. Shoe parts—upper, rand, midsole, outsole—are bonded. Historically, some glues contained animal byproducts. Reputable brands offering vegan shoes now confirm using synthetic adhesives. Companies like Evolv, Scarpa (with their “Vegan” symbol), and Ocun are transparent about this. Others like Black Diamond, Tenaya, and Unparallel confirm vegan construction for specific models.
The rise of high quality synthetic materials and adhesives brings performance benefits beyond ethics. Synthetic shoes generally stretch far less than leather shoes, meaning the shoe retains its shape longer. This predictability is an advantage, although it shortens the effective break-in period—there’s less forgiveness compared to leather potentially stretching a full size. It makes finding the right size initially even more critical. Synthetics can also be engineered for enhanced breathability or water resistance.
Dialing in Your Choice: Key Factors for Vegan Climbers
Choosing involves balancing factors. For vegan options, understanding how synthetic materials behave is key.
- Fit is Paramount (Especially with Synthetics): This cannot be overstated. Since synthetic shoes stretch minimally, the out-of-the-box fit is crucial. Aim for snugness with no dead space, particularly in the heel cup and toe box, but avoid pain. Your toes should be flat or slightly curled, depending on the shoe’s aggressiveness, but not crammed. “Performance fit” doesn’t mean agony. Try shoes on later in the day. Consider brand lasts and if you need a standard or low volume versions (LV). Those with wide feet should pay extra attention to specific lasts known for more room.
- Climbing Style and Terrain: What is your particular purpose?
- Bouldering/Steep Sport: Often requires an aggressive shoe, downturned with high asymmetry. This shape positions your foot for power on overhangs and small holds, ideal for tough boulder problems or steep walls. Good heel-hooking and toe rubber coverage are vital. Models like the Unparallel Flagship, La Sportiva Skwama Vegan, or Ocun Bullit shine here.
- Vertical/Slightly Overhanging Sport/Trad: Moderate shoes balance comfort and performance. A slight downturn and asymmetry offer more precision than neutral shoes but more comfort for longer sport climbs. The Evolv Shaman or Tenaya Oasi could fit.
- All-Day Comfort/Trad/Beginner: Neutral shoes have a flatter profile, prioritizing comfort. The Black Diamond Momentum or Tenaya Tanta are excellent examples.
- Indoor Specialist: Some shoes, like the Scarpa Veloce series, feature softer shoe rubber for smearing on volumes and enhanced comfort.
- Closure System: Various closure systems cater to different needs.
- Velcro: Quick, adjustable. Great for bouldering.
- Lace-up: Most customizable fit. Preferred by some for trad and techy face climbing.
- Slipper: Minimalist, high sensitivity. Relies on elastic.
- Rubber: The sticky soul. Different compounds balance stickiness, durability, and edging.
- Softer Rubbers (e.g., Vibram XS Grip2, Scarpa S-72, Evolv TRAX SAS): Excel at smearing, offer more sensitivity. May wear faster.
- Harder Rubbers (e.g., Vibram XS Edge, Unparallel RH): Better support on tiny edges, more durable. Might feel less sensitive. A stiff sole often uses harder rubber.
- Thickness: Thicker (4mm+) offers support/durability; thinner (3-3.5mm) provides sensitivity.
- Downturn and Asymmetry:
- Downturn: Downward curve towards the toe. Aggressive downturn focuses power onto the big toe.
- Asymmetry: Inward curve towards the big toe. Higher asymmetry also directs power to the big toe for precision.
The Main Event: Top Vegan Climbing Shoe Styles
Here’s a closer look at eight standout vegan climbing shoes, representing various styles and uses. This isn’t exhaustive—the vegan market thrives—but these models consistently impress.
1. La Sportiva Skwama Vegan
- Vegan Confirmation: Explicitly vegan shoe model. Uses SkinLike™ Microbase insole, microfiber upper, synthetic glues. One of the premier La Sportiva shoes available as a vegan option.
- The Lowdown: Legendary Skwama performance, now entirely plant-based. Proves ethical choices don’t require sacrificing elite performance on steep terrain.
- Best for: Bouldering, steep sport climbing, technical routes, gym; intermediate to advanced climbers.
- Key Specs: Single Velcro; Vibram XS Grip2 (3.5mm); Aggressive; Microfiber; P3® Platform, S-Heel technology.
- Performance Deep Dive: Retains the original’s sensitivity and precision. The P3 system maintains the downturn. Its split sole construction enhances flexibility. The S-Heel™ provides exceptional heel hooking. While sensitive, it offers decent edging. Precise fit is vital due to minimal stretch. Excels on demanding sport climbs.
- The Quirk/Anecdote: The SkinLike™ insole directly answers: “Can synthetics replicate leather next-to-skin?” La Sportiva’s reply is yes.
- Pros: Elite high performance, excellent sensitivity, superb heel hooking, retains shape, proven design now vegan.
- Cons: Aggressive fit isn’t for everyone, requires precise sizing.
2. Scarpa Veloce Lace
- Vegan Confirmation: Part of Scarpa’s designated vegan line (Vegan symbol), synthetic upper, synthetic glues.
- The Lowdown: An indoor specialist redefining comfort in performance. Designed for gym, training, and bouldering.
- Best for: Indoor climbing, training, climbers prioritizing comfort, those with wide feet needing a wide toe box.
- Key Specs: Offset Lace-up; Scarpa S-72 (4mm); Slightly Downturned/Asymmetric; Microfiber; DTS Active Rand, PAF Heel System.
- Performance Deep Dive: Comfort is its calling card. The wider last provides more room. The S-72 rubber is exceptionally soft and sticky, ideal for smearing. Despite being a softer shoe, the DTS rand and laces provide respectable edging tension. Offset lacing aids toe hooks. Praised for performance without typical aggressive shoe discomfort.
- The Quirk/Anecdote: Called a “con artist” shoe for its stickiness on non-existent holds? High praise for comfort-built performance.
- Pros: Exceptional comfort, superb indoor grip, adaptable fit, great for training.
- Cons: Soft rubber may wear faster outdoors, not a primary edging shoe.
3. Evolv Shaman / Shaman LV
- Vegan Confirmation: Evolv confirms its line, including the Evolv Shaman, uses 100% vegan materials/glues. Vegan synthetic upper.
- The Lowdown: A versatile high-performance workhorse blending comfort and performance. Tackles various styles without destroying feet. Available in standard and Low Volume (LV).
- Best for: All-around performance, steep sport climbing, bouldering, gym; intermediate to advanced seeking power/comfort blend.
- Key Specs: Three Velcro Straps; TRAX® SAS (4.2mm); Aggressive; Synthetic (Synthratek VX); Love Bump midsole, Knuckle Box toe box.
- Performance Deep Dive: Aims for the sweet spot. Downturned profile, aided by “Love Bump” (fills dead space under toes) and “Knuckle Box” (room for curled toes), provides power and edging. Three straps offer a secure fit. TRAX SAS balances stickiness/durability. Generous toe rubber enhances toe hooks. Often cited as more comfortable than similar aggressive shoes.
- The Quirk/Anecdote: Naming features “Love Bump” and “Knuckle Box” adds personality, hinting performance tech can be fun.
- Pros: Excellent blend of performance/comfort, versatile, durable, secure fit, good toe/heel hooking.
- Cons: Slightly less sensitive than some softer shoes.
4. Black Diamond Momentum
- Vegan Confirmation: Explicitly vegan. Hemp footbed.
- The Lowdown: Go-to for comfort, accessibility, and great value. Perfect for beginners, gym sessions, or long routes.
- Best for: Beginners, gym, all-day comfort, multi-pitch, warming up.
- Key Specs: Two Velcro Straps; BD Molded Rubber (4.3mm); Neutral; Engineered Knit Technology.
- Performance Deep Dive: Prioritizes comfort/breathability. Knit upper feels sock-like, allows airflow. Neutral last ensures comfort. Molded rubber offers durability/consistency. Not for high-end aggression, but excels at providing a comfortable, reliable platform.
- The Quirk/Anecdote: Using carabiner forging techniques for the outsole shows BD’s materials science crossover.
- Pros: Extremely comfortable, highly breathable, great value, durable, excellent beginner shoe, fully vegan.
- Cons: Not for high-performance edging or steep terrain, less precise.
5. Unparallel Flagship / Flagship Pro
- Vegan Confirmation: Confirmed vegan, synthetic upper/glues.
- The Lowdown: Aggressive powerhouse for demanding climbs. Built for steep rock and competitions.
- Best for: Steep sport climbing, bouldering, competitions, technical edging/hooking; advanced to expert.
- Key Specs: Single Velcro (+ elastic); Split Sole – RS 3.5mm (front), RH 4.2mm (rear); Aggressive; Lined Synthetic; VD molded toe rubber.
- Performance Deep Dive: Built for sending hard. Aggressive downturn/asymmetry focus power through the big toe. Split sole uses softer RS rubber upfront (sensitivity) and harder RH rubber rear (durability/heel structure). Extensive VD molded toe rubber (some might call it extra rubber) offers exceptional grip for technical toe hooks. Relatively comfortable for its class. Secure fit.
- The Quirk/Anecdote: Unparallel rose from Five Ten’s US production closure, carrying forward rubber expertise into innovative vegan designs.
- Pros: Excellent edging, superb toe hooks, high forefoot sensitivity, secure fit, durable, vegan.
- Cons: Aggressive fit needs adaptation, overkill for easier terrain.
6. Tenaya Oasi / Oasi LV
- Vegan Confirmation: Confirmed vegan by Tenaya/retailers. Microfiber upper, synthetic glues.
- The Lowdown: Remarkably versatile, blending high performance with surprising comfort. Excels across angles. Available in standard and Low Volume (LV).
- Best for: Sport climbing, bouldering, vertical to overhanging, climbers wanting performance without extreme discomfort; intermediate to advanced.
- Key Specs: Draxtor® Velcro system; Vibram XS Grip (3.5mm); Moderate-Aggressive; Microfiber; SXR Dynamics®, RBRX technology.
- Performance Deep Dive: Adaptability is its magic. Moderately curved last works well on slabs/vertical, yet powerful enough for steeper climbs. Draxtor closure allows precise tensioning for a custom fit. Vibram XS Grip rubber offers excellent friction. Great balance of sensitivity/support. Known for feeling comfortable relatively quickly. A solid choice for varied sport climbing.
- The Quirk/Anecdote: The intricate Draxtor closure looks complex but delivers a dialed-in fit, living up to Tenaya’s foot-shoe synergy focus.
- Pros: Highly versatile, exceptional comfort for performance level, precise fit, good sensitivity/support balance, available in LV.
- Cons: Lacks extreme downturn for steepest caves, less toe hook rubber than some.
7. Ocun Bullit
- Vegan Confirmation: Confirmed vegan. Microfiber upper, synthetic glues.
- The Lowdown: A soft, sensitive slipper for modern indoor bouldering and competition, excelling on volumes/smears.
- Best for: Indoor bouldering, competitions, smearing, sensitivity lovers; intermediate to advanced boulderers tackling tricky boulder problems.
- Key Specs: Single Velcro (+ slipper fit); CAT Rubber 1.5 (4mm); Aggressive; Microfiber; 2D Toe Soft midsole, 3D moulded toe patch.
- Performance Deep Dive: All about sensitivity and conforming. Very soft shoe construction lets climbers feel textures, maximizing rubber contact on volumes. Large, moulded 3D toe patch offers excellent grip for toe hooks. Aggressive downturn/asymmetry direct power to the toe. Slipper fit enhances sensitivity. Less suited for sharp outdoor edging.
- The Quirk/Anecdote: “Bullit” evokes targeted power, fitting for hitting specific, modern bouldering moves precisely.
- Pros: Extremely sensitive, excellent for smearing/volumes, great toe hooks, comfortable slipper fit, vegan.
- Cons: Not ideal for sharp edging/outdoor support, softness may lead to faster wear.
8. Mad Rock Drone CS LV
- Vegan Confirmation: Explicitly vegan-friendly. Synthetic upper/glues. (CS = Competition Spec; LV = Low Volume).
- The Lowdown: Aggressive tool for hard bouldering/sport climbing, featuring Mad Rock’s stickiest rubber and concave sole. LV version for narrower feet.
- Best for: Bouldering competitions, steep sport climbing, technical hooking, climbers with low volume versions feet needing an aggressive shoe.
- Key Specs: Single Hook-and-loop; Xtreme Friction (sole), Science Friction R2 (heel rand); Aggressive; Synthetic (Syn Flex); Patented Concave Sole, Arch Flex, 3D Molded Heel.
- Performance Deep Dive: Built for power/precision. Aggressive profile and concave sole maximize contact/pulling power. Xtreme Friction rubber is exceptionally sticky. Extensive rubber facilitates secure toe hooks. 3D molded heel provides locked-in fit in the heel cup. LV offers narrower toe box/heel cup.
- The Quirk/Anecdote: Mad Rock consistently offers high-performance features at competitive prices, embracing vegan materials continues this.
- Pros: Extremely sticky rubber, powerful on steep terrain, excellent heel/toe hooking, secure fit for low-volume feet.
- Cons: Highly specialized/aggressive fit, requires careful sizing, concave sole feels different.
Other Noteworthy Vegan Contenders
These eight are just the tip of the iceberg. Keep an eye out for these other excellent vegan alternatives:
- Evolv Zenist / Zenist LV: Even softer, more sensitive than the Shaman; training board/volume specialist.
- Scarpa Booster Vegan: More aggressive, sensitive sibling to Veloce; high-end sport/bouldering.
- Tenaya Tanta: Super comfortable, adaptable; ideal for beginners or all-day comfort.
- Ocun Diamond S: High-performance, handcrafted; demanding sport/bouldering.
- Entire EB Range: French brand, fully vegan line.
- So iLL: Unique aesthetics, several stylish vegan models.
Caring for Your Cruelty-Free Kicks
Synthetic shoes need slightly different care:
- Minimal Stretch: Don’t buy overly tight expecting stretch. Fit correctly initially to get the right size.
- Cleaning: Clean rubber soles regularly. Spot clean uppers with water/mild soap if needed. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Washing: If funky, wash cold, gentle cycle/hand wash, minimal mild detergent. No bleach/fabric softener.
- Drying: Air dry only! Stuff loosely with newspaper (replace often). Keep out of direct sun/heat. Heat damages glues/rubber, shortening the life of the shoe.
- Storage: Store cool, dry, unclipped/unlaced to air out. Avoid long compression in a pack.
The Summit: Ethics and Performance, Hand-in-Hand
Scouring obscure corners for a single, mediocre vegan climbing shoe is history. The industry offers a diverse, high-quality range, allowing vegan climbers to align passion with principles without compromise. From gym to crag, beginner comfort to World Cup aggression, a vegan climbing shoe awaits.
Choosing vegan isn’t a niche sacrifice; it’s a viable, often advantageous path to finding your perfect climbing partner. Innovation in synthetic materials continues. Explore options, try them on, find the pair speaking to your feet and ethics, and climb on. The rock doesn’t care what your shoes are made of—only how well you climb. With today’s vegan offerings, you can climb better, and feel better about it, than ever before. Finding the best shoe for you among these excellent vegan alternatives is entirely possible.
