Freeride is one of the fastest growing segments in the snowsports industry. Using the latest advancements in technology, ski brands have been able to create freeride boots that rival the downhill performance of top alpine boots yet don't have to feel like an AT boot just because of the walk mode. For Fall 2013, the following new freeride boots will enable you to chase powder on any part of the mountain, anytime, and in any binding.
Scarpa Freedom ($599) and Freedom SL ($769): Designed in conjunction with top freeskier Chris Davenport, the men's and women's Scarpa Freedom and Freedom SL boots are stiff, light, and have a wide 27 degrees of cuff range. You can ski any type of alpine or AT binding with the new interchangeable sole system that employs a bolt-through connection to the Carbon Core frame where hardware screws into all-metal interfaces in the upper shell, enhancing the power transfer to your ski and eliminating slop in the system.
K2 Pinnacle 130 ($850): K2's new Freeride boot enhances your range of motion for better uphill capabilities without compromising on any downhill performance. Reinforced by the PowerFuse SpYne, the Synchro Interlock design delivers 130 flex with increased front and back range of motion for efficient touring during walk mode. K2 stuck with an unchangeable alpine sole for the best power transfer and dropped the rocker for better performance when boot packing or skinning.
Black Diamond men's Factor MX130 and women's Shiva MX110 ($769): Swappable sole blocks interface with any binding, where the patented MX Direct Connect technology increases lateral stiffness 70 percent over other bolt-on systems, resulting in more precise power transmission. The Shiva MX 110 features a female specific fit and flex as well as a 2-degree heel lift.
Salomon Quest Max BC 120 ($789): These freeride boots offer a stiff 120 flex for high performance on the downhill, while being light enough to tour on the ascent. Features include TwinFrame technology, Oversized Pivot, Hike and Ride technology, Custom Shell 360, and Contagrip interchangeable soles. The boots also feature Salomon’s new WTR (Walk to Ride) technology, the first ever industry norm for compatibility between touring boots and bindings within the existing ISO Standards.