The sport of curling demands specialized footwear unlike any other ice discipline. One foot slides, one foot grips - and the balance between those two functions directly affects your delivery accuracy, your safety, and your longevity on the ice. Whether you’re competing in a club league or picking up a broom for the first time, investing in proper curling shoes pays off immediately.
We evaluated the top options on the market for 2026 across criteria including slider rating, upper construction, grip sole performance, and overall value. Here are the five best curling shoes you can buy right now.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Key Feature | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Balance Plus 700 Curling Shoes | Competitive players | .50 Teflon slider | $$$$ |
| Goldline Quantum Curling Shoes | Intermediate players | Dual-density outsole | ~$150-400 |
| BalancePlus 300 Curling Shoes | Beginners | Removable slider | ~$60-150 |
| Olson Airflex Curling Shoes | All-day comfort | Airflex sole technology | ~$150-400 |
| Asham Slam Curling Shoes | Value seekers | Full-foot slider | ~$60-150 |
1. Balance Plus 700 Curling Shoes
The Balance Plus 700 is widely considered the benchmark for competitive curling footwear. It features a premium .50 Teflon slider on the sliding shoe and a high-traction rubber gripper on the hack foot. The upper is constructed from a breathable synthetic leather that holds its shape through a full season of heavy play. This is the shoe worn by many national-level competitors - the performance to price ratio at this tier is genuinely hard to beat.
Pros: Industry-leading slider rating, durable upper, excellent heel support Cons: High price point, not ideal for casual club play
2. Goldline Quantum Curling Shoes
Goldline’s Quantum model hits the sweet spot for intermediate players who want performance without the top-tier price tag. The dual-density outsole provides a reliable slide on the delivery foot while the grip shoe handles the hack firmly. The upper uses reinforced stitching at high-wear zones, and the lacing system locks the heel in place effectively. Players upgrading from rental shoes will notice an immediate difference in delivery control.
Pros: Strong value for performance level, reinforced construction, reliable grip sole Cons: Slider slightly less refined than top-tier options
3. BalancePlus 300 Curling Shoes
The BalancePlus 300 is the go-to recommendation for beginners and casual players. It ships with a removable .50 slider that snaps on and off easily, making it safe to walk to the ice and back without swapping footwear. The rubber grip sole on the hack foot is stable and predictable. Build quality is solid for the price, and the shoe is comfortable enough for a 3-game spiel without complaint.
Pros: Removable slider, beginner-friendly price, comfortable for long sessions Cons: Slider performance lags behind premium models
4. Olson Airflex Curling Shoes
Olson’s Airflex line prioritizes comfort for players who spend extended time on the ice. The proprietary Airflex sole technology absorbs vibration and reduces fatigue, which matters during long bonspiels or back-to-back games. The slider delivers a smooth, consistent glide and the grip shoe has a responsive rubber compound. If your feet tend to tire during play, the Airflex is worth the premium.
Pros: Superior comfort technology, consistent slide, good ankle support Cons: Bulkier profile than slim competitive models
5. Asham Slam Curling Shoes
The Asham Slam delivers reliable performance at one of the most accessible price points in the category. It uses a full-foot slider design and a conventional rubber hack sole. The upper is straightforward synthetic material that holds up reasonably well for recreational play. For new curlers who want a real curling shoe without committing to a premium investment, the Slam is a practical, no-nonsense choice.
Pros: Affordable entry point, full-foot slider, widely available Cons: Less durable upper, minimal ankle support
What to Look For
Slider rating. Teflon sliders are rated by thickness - .50 is standard, .75 is faster, and .50+ with a nylon overlay is common at competition level. Match the slider to your ice conditions and skill level.
Removable vs. fixed slider. Beginners benefit from a removable slider that allows safe walking off the ice. Advanced players often prefer a fixed slider for a lower profile and more precise feel.
Grip sole. The hack foot needs firm, non-slip rubber. Look for a wrap-around grip that covers the heel and forefoot for stability during the delivery slide.
Upper construction. Synthetic leather and reinforced mesh both work well. Key areas to check are the heel counter, the lacing zone, and the toe box - these take the most wear.
Fit and sizing. Curling shoes should fit like a snug athletic shoe. Excess movement inside the shoe translates directly to inconsistent delivery.
Final Thoughts
For competitive or serious club play, the Balance Plus 700 is the clear top pick. Intermediate players looking for strong value will do well with the Goldline Quantum. Beginners should strongly consider the BalancePlus 300 for its removable slider system and approachable price. Whatever your level, purpose-made curling shoes will improve your game from your very first end.
Frequently asked questions
What makes curling shoes different from regular athletic shoes?+
Curling shoes are purpose-built for ice play. One shoe has a Teflon or similar sliding sole to let you glide smoothly during delivery, while the other has a grippy rubber sole for traction. This asymmetrical design is essential for safe, controlled play on the ice sheet - regular sneakers offer neither the right slide nor the right grip.
Do I need separate shoes for curling or can I buy a convertible pair?+
Many entry-level and mid-range curling shoes come with a removable slider on the sliding foot, so you can walk off the ice safely. Higher-performance models may use a fixed slider. If you're new to the sport, a convertible pair with a removable gripper is the most practical choice for on- and off-ice transitions.
How should curling shoes fit compared to regular athletic shoes?+
Curling shoes should fit snugly but not tight - similar to a running shoe fit. Too much room causes the foot to shift during delivery, affecting your line and weight. Most brands recommend going true to size or half a size down. Always try them with the socks you'll wear during play, and ensure the heel is well-locked in.