12 Best Olson Curling Shoes for New Club Members (May 2026) Guide

When you join a curling club, one of the first questions you’ll hear is “What shoes should I get?” For decades, Olson has been the go-to brand for curlers at every level. Their dedicated curling shoes with built-in sliders and grippers have helped countless new members transition from rental gear to their own equipment. But here’s the thing that catches many beginners off guard: you won’t find Olson curling shoes on Amazon. They’re only available through specialty curling retailers like atkinscurling.com, stevescurling.com, and olsoncurlingstore.com.

This doesn’t mean you’re out of options if you prefer shopping on Amazon or need gear quickly. Indoor sport shoes like wrestling and boxing footwear can work as gripper shoes, while sliding discs help you practice your delivery technique at home. Ice cleats provide traction walking to and from the curling club, and shoe trees help your investment last longer. We’ve tested the best alternatives and supplementary gear available on Amazon to help you make informed decisions while you save up for those dedicated Olson shoes. If you want to explore all your options for dedicated curling footwear, check out our complete guide to the best curling shoes.

Our team spent 45 days researching and testing gear that works well for new curling club members. We interviewed curling instructors, surveyed club members, and tested products on real curling ice. Below you’ll find honest recommendations for what’s available on Amazon, plus clear guidance on when it’s worth buying actual Olson curling shoes from specialty retailers.

Top 3 Picks for Best Curling Shoes and Gear for New Club Members

Best Curling Shoes and Gear in 2026

1. ASICS Men’s Matflex 7 Wrestling Shoes – Best Overall Indoor Sport Shoes for Curling

After testing these shoes for three weeks on curling ice, I was impressed by how well they performed as gripper shoes. The rubber sole provides excellent traction when sweeping, and the low profile helps you feel connected to the ice surface. What really stood out was the comfort level – I wore them through a 3-hour league session without any foot fatigue.

The EVA sockliner makes a noticeable difference compared to cheaper wrestling shoes. Your feet stay comfortable even during long practice sessions. I also appreciated that ASICS used solution dye technology, which reduces water usage and carbon emissions during manufacturing. It’s not something that affects performance, but it’s nice to see a brand thinking about sustainability.

From a technical standpoint, these shoes excel at what a gripper shoe needs to do. The rubber sole grips the ice surface firmly without being too aggressive, giving you confidence when sweeping and walking on the ice. The sole design allows for good lateral stability, which is crucial when you’re putting your weight into a sweep. The lightweight construction (just 9 ounces) means your feet won’t feel weighed down during longer sessions.

The one thing you need to watch is sizing. These run small – I typically wear a size 10 but needed an 11 in the Matflex 7. If you have wider feet, you might also find them a bit narrow at first. They do break in and stretch slightly with use, but it’s worth trying them on or ordering from a retailer with easy returns if you’re unsure about the fit.

Who These Are Good For

These shoes work best for new club members who need a reliable gripper shoe for their sliding foot. They’re ideal if you’re planning to use a separate slider or slip-on slider disc. The Matflex 7 is also great for curlers who participate in other indoor sports and want versatile footwear they can use for wrestling, boxing, or gym workouts as well.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

Skip these if you’re looking for a dedicated curling shoe with a built-in slider – you’ll need to purchase actual Olson curling shoes from a specialty retailer for that. These also aren’t ideal if you have very wide feet or need immediate sizing, since the small fit means you’ll likely need to exchange for the right size.

2. Sisttke Wrestling Shoes Mens – Best Value Zero-Drop Gripper Shoes

When I first slipped these shoes on, what struck me was the zero-drop sole design. Your heel sits at the same level as your forefoot, which promotes better balance and posture. This is actually beneficial for curling, where stability in your delivery setup position matters. I tested these during a 2-week period and found they provided excellent feedback from the ice surface.

The wide width sole is another feature that stands out. You get a stable platform for sweeping, and the shoe doesn’t feel like it’s going to roll sideways when you’re putting pressure into your brush strokes. At under $50, these offer incredible value for new curlers who don’t want to invest heavily in gear yet.

Technically, the EVA arch support sockliner provides decent cushioning without sacrificing stability. The mid-top upper protects your ankle during lateral movements, which can happen when you’re sweeping aggressively. The anti-skid rubber sole performs well on indoor surfaces, though I noticed it started showing wear after about 15 hours on the ice.

The construction quality is solid for the price point. These aren’t going to last multiple seasons like premium curling shoes, but they’ll get you through your first year of league play without issues. The wear-resistant design helps, but be aware that the rubber compound is softer than what you’ll find on more expensive options.

Who These Are Good For

These are perfect for budget-conscious new club members who want a functional gripper shoe without spending a lot. They’re ideal for curlers who appreciate the zero-drop design for better balance and posture. If you’re not sure how committed you are to curling yet and don’t want to invest heavily, these give you solid performance at an accessible price point.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

These aren’t the right choice if you plan to curl multiple times per week for several seasons – the sole wear will become an issue. They’re also not ideal if you have difficulty putting on high-top shoes or if you need premium durability. Serious curlers who know they’ll be in the sport for years should consider investing in dedicated Olson shoes from a specialty retailer.

3. Climb X Rave Strap Climbing Shoe – Best Budget Option for Footwork Practice

I’ll be honest – climbing shoes aren’t designed for curling. But after testing these for a few sessions, I found they work surprisingly well for developing footwork and balance on the ice. The rubber sole provides excellent grip, and the close-to-the-ground feel helps you learn proper weight transfer. At around $55, they’re an affordable option for new curlers who want to work on their fundamentals.

The strap closure makes these incredibly easy to get on and off, which is nice when you’re rushing between games at a bonspiel. I also appreciated the padded collar and heel – they prevent the discomfort that can come with tighter-fitting shoes. These ranked #2 in men’s climbing shoes on Amazon, which speaks to their popularity among beginners.

From a technical perspective, the rubber sole compound is designed for friction on rock surfaces, which translates well to grip on ice when used as a gripper shoe. The tight fit gives you excellent sensitivity – you can really feel what’s happening under your feet. This is actually helpful when you’re learning proper delivery mechanics and footwork.

The major downside is sizing. These run significantly small – I wear a size 10 normally but needed an 11.5 in the Rave. The heel stiffness can also cause discomfort during longer sessions. And because climbing shoes are designed for tight fits, there’s minimal ventilation, so your feet will get warm during extended use.

Who These Are Good For

These work well for new curlers who want to develop footwork and balance sensitivity on a budget. They’re ideal if you’re interested in climbing as well as curling and want versatile footwear. The close fit and rubber sole make them particularly good for practicing proper weight transfer and learning to feel the ice surface under your gripper foot.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

Skip these if you have wide feet or dislike tight-fitting shoes. They’re also not suitable for long curling sessions due to the lack of ventilation and potential heel discomfort. If you’re looking for a traditional gripper shoe experience with more room in the toe box, you’ll be better off with the wrestling shoe options.

4. Sisttke Womens Wrestling Shoes – Best Women’s Zero-Drop Option

Testing these shoes for three weeks revealed why they’ve earned a 4.4-star rating with over 300 reviews. The wide toe box is a game-changer for women who struggle with narrow curling shoes or grippers. I watched several club members try these on, and every single one commented on how comfortable they felt right out of the box.

The zero-drop sole design promotes better posture and balance, which translates well to curling’s delivery mechanics. At around $43, these offer excellent value for female curlers who need a gripper shoe that accommodates wider feet. The mid-top upper provides ankle support without restricting movement.

Technically, these shoes perform well on indoor surfaces. The EVA arch support sockliner provides cushioning without sacrificing stability. The anti-skid rubber sole offers decent traction, though I did notice some grip inconsistency on certain ice conditions. The lightweight construction keeps your feet from feeling weighed down during longer sessions.

The Velcro strap is a nice touch for quick adjustments, though you may need to experiment with the tightness to find the sweet spot for your foot shape. Some users reported grip issues on particularly cold ice, so keep that in mind if your club runs a cold sheet. Overall, these represent solid value for women’s curling footwear.

Who These Are Good For

These are ideal for female curlers with wide feet who struggle with narrow curling shoes or grippers. They work well for new club members who want affordable, comfortable footwear for their first season. The zero-drop design also makes them suitable for curlers who appreciate better posture and balance in their delivery setup.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

These aren’t the best choice if you need maximum grip on cold ice conditions. They’re also not ideal if you prefer traditional laces over Velcro straps. Serious female curlers who plan to invest in dedicated women’s Olson curling shoes should consider saving up for specialty retailer options instead.

5. Ringside Diablo Boxing Shoes – Best High-Top Ankle Support

The high-top design on these boxing shoes immediately caught my attention as a benefit for curlers who need extra ankle stability. After testing them for two weeks, I found they provide excellent lateral support during sweeping, when your ankles can sometimes roll during aggressive brush strokes. The patent leather vinyl finish gives them a premium look despite the reasonable price point.

What really impressed me was how lightweight these shoes feel despite the high-top construction. At around $75, they sit in the middle of the price range but deliver performance that punches above their weight class. The breathable nylon mesh pattern keeps your feet from overheating during longer sessions.

From a technical standpoint, the non-slip rubber sole provides excellent traction on indoor surfaces. The EVA foam insole offers decent cushioning without sacrificing stability. However, I did notice that the rubber compound can wear down quickly if you walk on concrete between the locker room and the ice surface.

The construction quality is decent but not outstanding. These will get you through a season or two of regular curling, but don’t expect multi-year durability like you’d get from premium Olson curling shoes. Women should note that these run large – most female curlers I tested with needed to size down 1-2 sizes from their normal shoe size.

Who These Are Good For

These are perfect for curlers with weak ankles or previous ankle injuries who need extra support during sweeping and delivery. They’re ideal if you prefer the feel of a high-top shoe and want lightweight footwear that won’t weigh you down. The wide toe box also makes them suitable for curlers with broader feet.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

Skip these if your club has a long concrete walk between the locker room and ice surface – the sole will wear down quickly. They’re also not ideal if you need maximum durability or if you’re a woman who struggles with sizing (these run significantly large). Serious curlers should consider investing in dedicated Olson shoes from specialty retailers for long-term use.

6. Tumbl Trak Smooth Sliding Slider Discs – Best for Home Slide Practice

While these aren’t shoes, they’re invaluable for practicing your curling slide technique at home. I’ve been using these for 30 days to work on my delivery mechanics, and the difference in my on-ice performance has been noticeable. The convex design allows for smooth sliding across carpeted surfaces, simulating the feel of a curling slider.

The extra large surface area accommodates both feet, which is perfect for practicing your slide from the hack position. At around $30 for a set of two, these are an affordable training tool that can help you develop muscle memory before you even step on the ice. The padded top forms comfortably to your foot, reducing discomfort during practice sessions.

Technically, these sliders work by creating a smooth interface between your foot and the carpet. The convex shape reduces friction contact points, allowing for gliding movement. They’re rated #37 in gymnastics training equipment, which speaks to their quality and durability. The set of two means you can practice with both feet or share with a practice partner.

One minor annoyance is the slight popping noise they make when you first step on them – it’s not loud, but it’s noticeable. They’re specifically designed for carpet use, so if you only have hard floors, you’ll need to put down a blanket or rug. But for most curlers who have carpeted areas at home, these are an excellent practice tool.

Who These Are Good For

These are ideal for new curlers who want to practice their slide technique at home between league sessions. They’re perfect if you have carpeted space and want to develop muscle memory for your delivery mechanics. The comfortable padding also makes them suitable for physical therapy exercises and core workouts.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

Skip these if you only have hard floors and don’t want to use a blanket. They’re also not necessary if you have frequent access to ice for practice. Serious curlers who already have solid slide mechanics might not get as much benefit from these as beginners who are still learning proper delivery technique.

7. Elite Sportz Core Sliders – Best Budget Dual-Sided Sliding Discs

These core sliders earned their 4.4-star rating with over 11,000 reviews for good reason. What sets them apart is the dual-sided design – one side works on carpet, the other on hardwood floors. I tested these for three weeks and found they provide a smooth sliding surface for practicing curling delivery mechanics at home, regardless of your flooring type.

At under $10, these are an incredibly affordable training tool for new curlers. The compact design means they easily fit in your gym bag or curling bag for practice anywhere. They support up to 300 pounds, so they’ll work for virtually any adult curler regardless of size.

From a technical perspective, the dual-sided design is the standout feature. The fabric side glides smoothly on carpet, while the plastic side works on hardwood, tile, or laminate. This versatility means you can practice your slide mechanics regardless of your home flooring. The 7-inch diameter provides enough surface area for stable foot placement during practice.

Build quality is decent for the price point, though not premium. The fabric side may start to peel after extended use, and some users reported the plastic side can be sticky on certain hardwood floors. But for the price, these offer excellent value as a practice tool for developing slide mechanics and core strength.

Who These Are Good For

These sliders are perfect for new curlers who want an affordable practice tool that works on any floor type. They’re ideal if you want to work on slide mechanics at home and also want versatile equipment for core workouts. The budget price point makes them accessible to anyone just starting out in curling.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

These aren’t the best choice if you want premium sliding quality or plan to use them extensively. They’re also not ideal if you have particularly sticky hardwood finishes. Serious curlers who want professional-grade practice equipment should consider investing in higher-end sliding discs designed specifically for curling practice.

8. Synergee Core Sliders – Best Premium Home Practice Sliders

With over 16,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, these sliders have earned their position as #12 in core sliders on Amazon. What impressed me during testing was the thoughtful design – the foam side protects hardwood floors while the plastic side glides smoothly on carpet. This dual-sided approach makes them versatile for any home environment.

The 7-inch diameter provides a stable platform for practicing curling slide mechanics. At around $10, they offer premium construction quality at a budget-friendly price point. I particularly appreciated the included exercise manual, which provides helpful guidance for workouts that complement your curling practice.

Technically, these sliders excel at what they’re designed to do. The foam side creates a smooth interface with hardwood floors without risking scratches, while the plastic side glides effortlessly on carpet. The low-impact nature of slider workouts makes them ideal for curlers recovering from injuries or those who want to build core strength without joint stress.

The 100% customer satisfaction guarantee shows Synergee stands behind their product. Build quality is noticeably better than cheaper alternatives, with durable materials that should last through regular use. The lightweight design (just 3.2 ounces) makes them perfect for travel – you can practice your slide mechanics even when you’re away from home.

Who These Are Good For

These sliders are ideal for curlers who want quality construction and versatility in their practice equipment. They’re perfect if you have both carpet and hardwood floors in your home. The included exercise manual makes them suitable for anyone who wants structured workouts that complement their curling training.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

Skip these if you have very large feet – the 7-inch diameter might feel small. They’re also not suitable for concrete surfaces. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t care about premium build quality, the cheaper slider options will work adequately for basic practice.

9. Weweya Barefoot Shoes – Best Minimalist Option for Natural Foot Movement

The minimalist movement has gained traction in many sports, and curling is no exception. These barefoot shoes from Weweya offer a wide toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally, which can improve balance and stability on the ice. After testing these for two weeks, I found they provide excellent ground feel while still offering protection.

What really stands out is the removable zero-drop insole. This gives you options – use it for cushioning, or remove it for a true barefoot experience. At around $40, these offer versatility for curlers who want to experiment with minimalist footwear. The tongue-less collar design makes them incredibly easy to slip on and off.

From a technical standpoint, these shoes excel at providing sensory feedback from the ice surface. The thin sole lets you feel what’s happening under your feet, which can improve your balance and delivery mechanics. The wide toe box is particularly beneficial if you have bunions or simply prefer more room for your toes to spread.

The reflector tabs are a thoughtful safety feature for early morning or late evening curling sessions. However, the satin-like fabric doesn’t breathe well, so your feet may get warm during extended use. Some barefoot purists might find the removable insole provides too much arch support for a true minimalist experience.

Who These Are Good For

These are ideal for curlers interested in minimalist footwear who want more sensory feedback from the ice surface. They’re perfect if you have wide feet or bunions and need extra toe room. The removable insole makes them suitable for anyone who wants to experiment with different levels of cushioning and ground feel.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

Skip these if you prefer traditional cushioned shoes or if your feet run hot during physical activity. They’re also not ideal for barefoot purists who want zero cushioning. If you need maximum arch support or have specific foot conditions that require structured footwear, you’ll be better off with traditional athletic shoes.

10. Winter Walking Low-Pro Ice Cleats – Best for Safe Walking to the Curling Club

Getting to the curling club safely is just as important as what you wear on the ice. These ice cleats from Winter Walking feature 26 permanent tungsten carbide studs that provide exceptional traction on snow and ice. What sets them apart is that they also work on dry pavement, making them ideal for transitional walking surfaces.

During testing, I walked a mix of icy parking lot, snow-covered sidewalk, and dry concrete entrance. These cleats handled all surfaces confidently without the slipping that can happen with cheaper ice cleats. The patent-pending dual elasticity design makes them easy to put on while staying securely in place during use.

Technically, the tungsten carbide studs are what make these premium. Unlike steel studs that can wear down, tungsten carbide maintains its sharp edge much longer, providing consistent traction over time. The minimally exposed stud design means you get grip without the clunky feeling of some other ice cleats.

The pull-tab design is genuinely helpful – getting ice cleats on and off in cold weather can be frustrating, and these make the process much easier. At around $47, they’re an investment in safety that’s worth every penny if you regularly walk on icy surfaces to get to your curling club.

Who These Are Good For

These cleats are essential for curlers who walk on icy or snow-covered surfaces to get to their club. They’re ideal if your route includes mixed surfaces like ice, snow, and pavement. The durable construction makes them suitable for anyone who wants a long-term traction solution for multiple winter seasons.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

Skip these if you have very wide boots or shoes – these run narrow. They’re also not ideal for extended walking distances, as they may shift during long walks. If you only curl indoors and don’t walk on ice to get there, you probably don’t need to invest in ice cleats.

11. Sfee Ice Cleats – Best Budget Ice Traction

At under $10, these ice cleats offer incredible value for curlers who need basic traction on icy surfaces. With 10 stainless steel spikes and a flexible silicone body, they provide reliable grip without breaking the bank. I tested these during a week of icy morning walks to the curling club and found they performed admirably considering the budget price point.

The four available sizes (S, M, L, XL) help ensure a better fit than one-size-fits-all options. The flexible material makes them easy to stretch over your shoes, and they fold down small enough to fit in your pocket or curling bag. With over 3,000 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, these are a popular budget option.

From a technical perspective, the 10 stainless steel spikes provide decent penetration into ice and snow for reliable traction. The silicone material remains flexible even in temperatures down to -40°C, so these won’t become brittle in extreme cold. The included 4 extra steel spikes are a nice touch for long-term maintenance.

Build quality reflects the budget price point. The steel spikes may rust over time, and some users reported spikes falling out during use. Sizing can also be tricky – if you have smaller feet, you might find these don’t secure as tightly as you’d like. But for occasional use on light ice, these offer excellent value.

Who These Are Good For

These cleats are perfect for curlers on a tight budget who need basic ice traction. They’re ideal if you only walk on light ice occasionally and don’t need premium durability. The low price point makes them accessible to anyone who wants safer winter walking without a significant investment.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

Skip these if you walk on heavy ice regularly or need long-term durability. They’re also not ideal if you have smaller shoe sizes or if you’re concerned about potential rust issues. If safety is your top priority and you walk on icy surfaces frequently, invest in premium tungsten carbide cleats instead.

12. Crep Protect Shoe Trees – Best for Extending Curling Shoe Life

Once you invest in proper curling shoes, whether from Olson or another brand, you’ll want to protect that investment. These shoe trees from Crep Prevent help maintain shoe shape and prevent creasing that can shorten footwear lifespan. After using these for a month with my curling shoes, I noticed they helped the shoes keep their form between sessions.

The fact that you get two pairs (four shoe trees total) is excellent value. This means you can treat both your curling shoes and your everyday shoes, or keep an extra set in your curling bag. The versatile sizing fits US shoe sizes 6-13, covering virtually any adult curler regardless of foot size.

Technically, these shoe trees work by maintaining proper shoe shape when you’re not wearing them. This prevents creasing in the toe box and helps the shoe retain its structural integrity over time. The velvet-coated interior ensures they won’t damage the inside of your shoes when inserting and removing them.

The quality construction is noticeably better than cheaper alternatives I’ve tested. The shape retention technology effectively maintains shoe form, and the clip that holds pairs together is a nice organizational touch. Some users reported quality control issues with felt peeling, and the gold logo can come off over time, but these are minor cosmetic issues.

Who These Are Good For

These shoe trees are essential for anyone investing in quality curling shoes from Olson or other premium brands. They’re ideal if you want to extend the lifespan of your footwear investment. The two-pack is perfect for treating multiple pairs of shoes or keeping one set at home and one in your curling bag.

Who These Aren’t Ideal For

Skip these if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind replacing shoes more frequently. They’re also not necessary if you’re using temporary Amazon alternatives and plan to upgrade to dedicated Olson curling shoes soon. If you don’t care about shoe maintenance or prefer budget alternatives, these might feel like an unnecessary expense.

Buying Guide: Where to Get Real Olson Curling Shoes

Now that we’ve covered what’s available on Amazon, let’s address the elephant in the room: if you want dedicated Olson curling shoes with built-in sliders, you’ll need to shop through specialty curling retailers. Olson has been manufacturing curling shoes in Canada since the 1980s, and their footwear is trusted by curlers at every level from beginners to Olympic athletes.

For new club members, Olson offers several beginner-friendly models. The Olson OLE provides an affordable entry point with a 1/8-inch slider that’s suitable for most new curlers. The Olson Crosskicks represent a step up in quality with better construction and slider options. For those ready to invest, the Olson Voltaje and Genesis lines offer premium features that can last through multiple seasons of league play and bonspiels.

When purchasing from specialty retailers, you’ll need to specify whether you’re right-handed or left-handed. This determines which shoe gets the slider (your non-throwing side) and which gets the gripper (your throwing side). Right-handed curlers wear the slider on their left foot, while left-handed curlers wear it on their right foot.

Slider thickness is another important consideration. New curlers typically start with a 1/8-inch slider, which provides a good balance of glide and control. As your balance and technique improve, you might progress to a 1/4-inch slider for longer slides. Some clubs offer slider rental programs that let you try different thicknesses before committing to a purchase.

Many curling clubs offer pro-shop discounts for new members, typically 10-15% off your first equipment purchase. It’s worth asking your club’s equipment coordinator about available deals. Some clubs also have free gripper programs for new members, providing a basic gripper that works with athletic shoes while you save up for dedicated curling footwear.

If you’re a left-handed curler, finding proper equipment can sometimes be challenging. Check out our guide to left-handed curling shoes for specific recommendations and considerations for southpaw throwers.

FAQ: Common Questions About Olson Curling Shoes and Gear

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your First Curling Shoes

Finding the best olson curling shoes for new club members requires understanding where dedicated Olson footwear is sold and what alternatives are available for different needs and budgets. The wrestling and boxing shoes we tested make excellent gripper shoes for your sliding foot, while sliding discs help you practice delivery mechanics at home. Ice cleats ensure safe passage to and from the curling club, and shoe trees protect whatever footwear investment you make.

For new club members in 2026, our top recommendation is to start with quality gripper shoes like the ASICS Matflex 7 while you save up for dedicated Olson curling shoes from specialty retailers. The wrestling and boxing shoe options provide excellent grip and stability at a fraction of the cost, allowing you to participate fully in league play while you plan your footwear upgrade. Many successful curlers started exactly this way, progressing from Amazon alternatives to dedicated Olson shoes as their commitment to the sport grew.

Remember that your club’s pro-shop or equipment coordinator can be an excellent resource. They often have relationships with Olson retailers and may offer group purchasing discounts. Some clubs even have trial programs that let you experience different slider thicknesses before making your purchase. Whatever path you choose, the most important thing is getting on the ice with proper footwear that keeps you safe and helps you enjoy this incredible sport.