This article is especially important to me because it addresses a challenge I've faced personally. When I first started climbing, I struggled to find information on this topic. To give you some background, I have a clubfoot, a birth malformation that results in a significant size difference between my feet—almost four sizes. For everyday shoes, I manage by buying the larger size and using an insole to secure my smaller foot. However, climbing shoes are a different story, as it's crucial to have your toes snugly at the tip of the shoe.
Initially, I resorted to buying two pairs of second-hand climbing shoes as cheaply as possible, mixing and matching sizes. Unsurprisingly, this wasn't the most effective solution. Then, I discovered EB, a French brand that offers split shoes, allowing you to purchase individual shoes rather than a pair. This was a game-changer for me. While the shoes weren't the most technical, they were still a significant improvement over the budget options I had been using.
However, my right foot didn’t fit properly inside the shoes, causing discomfort and pain, so I continued searching for a better solution. Eventually, I found out that Le Vieux Campeur, a shop in France, sells single shoes at half price (and sometimes even cheaper). I started visiting regularly, and after some time, I finally found the perfect shoe for my right foot.
Green shoes: single shoes bought from Le vieux campeur and Orange shoes: Split from EB
The best discovery, though, came during a trip to the United States. I visited Mad Rock, intending to check out their trial shoes, which they sell at a discount. When I explained my situation, the staff offered me an incredible deal: I could buy any pair of shoes and get two different sizes for just an additional $20. Given that Mad Rock shoes are already high quality and relatively affordable compared to other brands, this was a fantastic solution for me.
Update 26 sept 2024: I tried to buy new Mad Rock shoes in Canada, but they told me that the deal is only available at the headquarters in the US.
Mad rock shoes in two different sizes
If you, like me, need two different shoe sizes for any reason, I highly recommend Mad Rock. And if you know of any other great solutions, please feel free to share them with me—I'd love to hear what works for others!