The ski boot industry has seen many changes in the last 15 to 20 years, but one area that still had much room for improvement was the category of alpine ski boots. The majority of models still feature four buckles for adjusting the fit of the boot. All of this has changed now with several major manufacturers introducing new lines of boots that feature BOA’s new H i1 Fit System. This system has taken the place of the bottom two buckles with a dial and it is now available to the general public.
BOA’s dial/cable Fit Systems have been used in snowboarding boots since 2001, and have been popular among snowboarders for their convenience and comfort. After a successful run in the snowboarding world, they’ve now made their way into the world of skiing. Skiing enthusiasts have been envious of snowboarders’ easy-to-use boots for quite some time and it seems BOA has finally made the transition into ski boots, which are known to be typically more rigid and difficult to walk in.
The new boots that have incorporated BOA’s technology are Atomic Hawx Ultra 130 XTD BOA and Salomon S/PRO Supra BOA 130. These boots come with a larger dial than those found on other BOA boots and make it easier to use even with gloves on. The BOA system intends to provide a more uniform wrap around the foot and offers a more even snugness all around the foot. This system also allows for more precise fit, making sure the pressure remains uniform throughout the whole boot. This is done through a lace that tension that can be controlled through the BOA dial.
The new boots boast a price tag starting at around $600, with 130 being the stiffest model available in lines, intended for advanced skiers or those with personal preferences for more rigid boots. However, softer flex model boots are also available for those who don’t require that level of rigidity. To ensure the perfect fit, the boots can also be custom molded to the skier’s feet. Despite the higher price tag, any discomfort that skiers have experienced with traditional ski boots could be mitigated with these new models, thanks to the new BOA technology.
It is yet to be seen whether or not the new boots provide any additional performance benefits, but they are sure to come as welcome relief to skiers struggling for comfort and ease of use. Newspapers, magazines and tech reviewers are further testing these new developments and updates for their potential role in the skiing world. With the newest changes to ski boot technology, and the intention to further enhance and improve skiing gear in the near future, skiers can expect improvements in their performance as well as increased comfort when on the mountain.
