The BOA lacing system is a dial on ski boots that allows you to tighten or loosen a metal cable in stages. The forefoot shell closes evenly by turning the knob, which sits on the instep of the foot. This system has been used on snowboarding, cycling, golf and work boots for many years, but now it is also seen on ski boots. The first offerings of ski boots with BOA closure have come to market, but what exactly does it entail? This blog explains all the ins and outs of this new ski boot fastening system.
The BOA closure is one of the latest and greatest developments in ski boots. This closure replaces part of the buckles and offers an easier and better way to close and open. Thanks to the BOA ski buckle, you are correctly secured in your ski boots, giving you maximum control on the slopes. For many years, the round dial has been seen on snowboard boots and other shoes in the sports and work world, but never before on ski boots, until now. The BOA closure was developed over 20 years ago in the Rocky Mountains by snowboarder and surfer Gary Hammerslag to improve snowboard boot fit and performance. By now, the BOA® Fit System is a revolutionary, award-winning and patented system integrated by more than 300 brands worldwide.
The functioning of the BOA system on ski boots is quite simple. A dial connected to a metal cable is on the instep of the foot. Turning the knob clockwise tightens the cable and closes the shoe. Turning the knob anti-clockwise loosens the cable and opens the ski boot. Step by step, the BOA system allows you to loosen or tighten the ski boot. This ensures the perfect fit and pressure distribution at the forefoot.
The main advantage of the BOA closure has already been briefly mentioned above. The dial allows the cable to be tightened incrementally, allowing the shell to close evenly at the forefoot. There is no single pressure point, but the pressure is evenly distributed. This closure might be the solution for skiers who often experience pain in this area. The BOA closure also ensures a better fit and, therefore, better control over your skis. In addition, it is easy to use, and you can easily loosen or tighten your ski boots. Another big advantage: it requires almost no force!
Ski boots with the BOA system are currently not entirely free of buckles. On the part above the ankle, one or two buckles and a Velcro strap are still attached to help close that part of the ski boot. So the end of the buckle era is not yet here and does not seem to be coming. The fit of ski boots is personal and also depends on personal preference.
More than 300 brands now use the BOA® Fit System. Meanwhile, the first ski boot brands have presented their models with BOA closure. Among them:
I grew up in Slovenia, close to the Julian Alps. Early on, my parents put me on skis and skates, and the winter sports enthusiasm hasn't left me since. I also enjoy cross-country skiing and have been a keen snowboarder for the past 20 years.
