Photo Credit: Florian Monot
When Bob Lange created and released the first plastic ski boot in 1962, he revolutionized the sport and launched an iconic brand. Over 60 years later, we’ve seen innovation in ski boot materials that make them lighter, warmer and more comfortable, but from a mechanical perspective, the four buckle overlap boot functions nearly the same way it did when Bob Lange introduced that first plastic boot to the market. Inspired by carbon plate running shoes and mountain bike suspensions, Lange is looking to disrupt the industry again with their new SHADOW line.
“We really leaned into the innovation that we’ve seen in other outdoor sports categories that provide a mechanical advantage to the athlete when we developed the SHADOW product,” Lange Alpine Category Manager Matt Farness said. “The SHADOW has these two unique design features in the Suspension Blade and the Dual Pivot that allow the skier to amplify energy and power with less effort.”
By replacing the bolts on the spine of a traditional boot with a molded piece of plastic called the Suspension Blade, the skier receives a much smoother and more consistent flex. In addition, the Suspension Blade also has leaf spring-like action that increases rebound in the boot.
The Dual Pivot moves the bolts you find on the side of a traditional overlap boot lower and extends the axes of the cuff, resulting in enhanced leverage for the skier. By creating a longer and more efficient lever mechanism, the SHADOW allows you to generate more power and energy with less effort.
“The SHADOW is the ideal all mountain boot for those skiing bell to bell as it enables them to generate the same amount of power with less effort,” Farness said. “The combo of the Suspension Blade and Dual Pivot provides more upright engagement and a shorter, amplified power zone making it possible to initiate the boot much earlier.”
The new technology of the SHADOW extends into the liner of the boot as well. Featuring new Auxetic technology which is composed of laser-etched geometric structures, the liner’s external material expands and contracts to natural shapes. This makes for less pressure points out of the box and a more personal fit over time. Sewn as a single piece to avoid friction caused by seams, the liner features a true asymmetric toe box and a tighter heel pocket than its RX predecessors.
“This is the best fit we have ever delivered in the 97 mm low volume and 100 mm mid volume fits by a long shot,” Farness said. “From a performance perspective, the Dual Pivot and Suspension Blade make it possible to generate power much earlier and with less effort. It gives you increased rebound, improved rearward support and better lateral control. You’ll really be able to ski for longer and charge harder in these boots.”
The new SHADOW line will be available in the fall in men’s and women’s fits ranging from 85 to 130 flex patterns and will replace Lange’s RX all mountain freeride line.
