Buying rock shoes on the Internet needn't be a chore provided the seller is willing to provide a comprehensive service and be prepared for the occasional return or swap when things dont quite work out:

• Sizing - amazingly there is no International standard (ISO or BS) for shoe sizes. This is a double edged sword. While it means inconsitancy between brands, there is scope for each brand to adapt a 'house style' perhaps in terms of width, volume or shaping that would otherwise not be available if restricted by a standard.
• Variation from the norm - If you know your size in a particular brand that's a good start. Bear in mind more technical rock shoes are more curved (asymetric) so feel comparatively tighter and narrower than a straighter lasted pair. Look for information about the relative sizing of shoes between manufacturers - a size 9 by Garra is roughly equivalent to a size 10 in Mad Rock for example. If you can seek advice by email or phone dont be afraid to ask - it will save the seller and you postage and delays if you can avoid a return.
• Measurement service - Look for the option to mave your feet measured remotely... no its not science fiction - simply draw around your foot while standing barefoot on a piece of paper and fax the outline to the seller (our fax number is 01926 353476) also include a note about your street shoe sizing and rockshoe size and make you use already and whether you are male or female. This information is usually more than enough to get a very accurate sizing.
• Exchange policy - we offer 1 free exchange of size on rock shoes and as many changes as you need after that in case of continued fitting issues provided you dont mind paying the postage. Not everyone will do this so check the small print.

At the end of the day, travelling to your nearest outdoor shop, finding and paying for parking then trying several pairs suggested by a salesperson who may not know as much about the sport as you do can often be a lot more hassle than making a purchase one lunchtime while you happen to be online and frees up the weekend to go climbing into the bargain.

For more advice on buying rockshoes online see here: http://www.walkhigh.co.uk/acatalog/Rock_boots__climbing_shoes.html