In reply to Jackspratt:
Looking at your profile and how hard you climb ( about the same as me) I'd say there's no need to be wearing uncomfortable shoes anywhere.
My shoe buying method is to try every pair in the shop on, starting at the cheapest and working upwards until I find something snug but comfy. Paying no attention to brand or style.
I've tried tight shoes, but I can't say I climbed any better in them. I reckon I'd have to improve a good few grades before I'd need to get picky about shoes.