A frequent question, I know, but what's the latest thinking on how tight rock shoes should be? I'm planning to buy a new pair - should I still look to buy the smallest pair I can possibly squeeze my feet into?
I think the general consensus will be no, get some that are comfy-ish. It also depends on how much/how hard you climb and what type of climbing you do. I normally find they staff in the shops very helpful in choosing shoes, in my experience they tend to give sound advice instead of just recommending the most expensive.
try a load of different sizes and makes, also remmeber that your feet wil get slightly bigger after exercise. I used to have super tight shoes, but after realising I am never going to be a great climber, I got a pair with which i can wear socks.
In reply to TRJ: Thanks for your advice, everyone. I'm not actually a beginner - just tired of suffering! As I tend to prefer lower grade 'mountain' rock routes, I'll probably go for something a bit more comfortable than my late, unlamented, Stingers
