2019 Climbing Shoe Review: Red Chili Voltage 2

“I would recommend this shoe to anyone looking for a performance shoe but who doesn’t get off on screaming pain,” said one tester, who used the Voltage 2 to redpoint the steep, heel-hooking and edging climb Backdoor Man (5.12a) at Staunton State Park, Colorado. While this tester, who wore his shoes large, wished the big toe and heel had more bite, our other tester, in her tight pair, couldn’t sing these attributes’ praises enough. On a V5 on the slippery quartzite of the Swan Mountain Boulders, Colorado, she “locked in perfectly” on the heel-hook beta, calling the Voltage 2 the “most perfect heel-hooking shoe I’ve ever used.” Perhaps this is because the shoe has a well-considered ample forefoot mixed with a tapered heel and only slightly extruded heelcup—the anatomical shape meant the heel stayed put. And for the rock’s demanding edging, she noted performance so natural she barely had to consider it; she also appreciated how well the edge has held up. Basically, if you like aggressive shoes but can’t stomach foot pain, this is a top contender.