The average rock climber will usually wear out about two pairs of climbing shoes per year. Some climbers, particularly those who climb indoors, will go through even more than this. Different climbing styles will have different effects on the durability of rock shoes; as a general rule, the faster and more nimble your footwork, the less likely it is that you’ll rub on the sole of the shoe by dragging it across uneven rock surfaces. Here, we offer some simply tips on how to extend the life of your rock climbing shoes.
When to wear climbing shoes:
Although it may seem obvious, climbing shoes are only to be worn for climbing. Do not wear them while you’re on the approach to the cliff, or the trail afterwards. If you walk in your climbing shoes during these times, gravel and dirt will grind into the rubber and the surface will wear down prematurely. Moreover, soles covered in dirt will have less grip once you are on the rocks.
Keep your climbing shoes clean:
Dirt, sweat and grime will also have an effect on the lifespan of your climbing shoes. There are a number of things that you can do to keep them cleaner for longer. On the approach to the cliff, make sure to keep your feet clean by avoiding sandals and opting for closed toe shoes instead. Thin liner socks are also useful for keeping your climbing shoes in good condition. Once the climb is finished, take the shoes out of the backpack as soon as you arrive home, so as to prevent mildew from taking hold.
Care for the rands and soles:
The shoes’ rands (the rubber rims that go from heel to toe) and the soles are made from a sticky type of rubber that makes it easier to grip the rock. However, this stickiness also means that your climbing shoes can easily pick up gravel and dirt, thus compromising your grip when you’re on a climb. To preserve this rubber, after each climb, make sure to rub the rands and soles with a damp rag, so as to remove as much dust and dirt as possible. Use a wire brush or coarse sandpaper to brush the bottom of each shoe, so that the black colour is restored. Do this gently so as not to remove the rubber.
When should you resole your climbing shoes?
Getting climbing shoes resoled can be a pain, particularly if they are your only pair and you are a regular climber, as resoling can take up to a week, or even two in some cases, leaving you without one of your most important pieces of outdoor gear. However, try not to wait too long to send them off to the repair shop; check the areas of the shoe that tend to wear down after each climb. Some of the areas to keep an eye on include the toe, the ball of the foot and where the rand meets the sole.
Climbing Equipment 
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