Shell

Starting from the bottom up, the Kita uses a traction enhancing Vibram outsole, they insert EVA foam in the heel and toe to dampen vibrations, reduce fatigue and increase comfort. It’s these little features that set the Kita apart from the crowd, this attention to detail is worth its weight in gold to riders who prioritise long term comfort and performance.

The 3D toe box of the boot is tricked out with Nidecker’s Armor-Tech, a tough external shield that protects this essential area from abrasion when you’re out in the field bootpacking or shovelling.

The shell uses an Exospine to bolster performance, it’s a rigid backstay that transfers energy when you’re going edge to edge. The asymmetric shell is welded rather than stitched to give a seamless aesthetic that also increases waterproofing and durability.

Nidecker uses their External Heel-Lock Dual Boa system. The upper and lower zones function independently, allowing you to really dial in the perfect fit. This innovative process focuses on locking in over the ankle, reducing heel lift and in turn boosting performance by eliminating dead time in the turning process.

“The 3D toe box of the boot is tricked out with Nidecker’s Armor-Tech, a tough external shield that protects this essential area from abrasion”

Liner

Internally you’ll find Nidecker’s top of the range Gold-Level liner, this avant-garde asymmetric design wraps around your foot and ankle, securing you in the boot and reducing dead space and rub zones. It’s fully heat moldable to align to the specific contours of your body to increase comfort.

So, while the Kita is definitely a dominating force out in the mountains, they’re just as cosy and at home dancing on tables at Apres. The liner features its own lacing system stitched into the inside of the shell, with this velcro to keep it flush to your shin.

Underfoot you’ll find a plush 3D moulded triple density footbed, it’s designed to support your foot, reduce fatigue and keep you in the optimum riding stance. Speaking of optimum stance, the Kita comes pre angled 8 degrees, this mimics what the forward lean adjuster does on your bindings, and adds power and precision to your heelside turns.

“So, while the Kita is definitely a dominating force out in the mountains, they’re just as cosy and at home dancing on tables at Apres”

Roundup

While Nidecker may be better known for their fleet of snowboards, this reimagined boot line is certainly not to be sniffed at. Nidecker have really pulled out all the stops here, this is a really high-end reimagining of what to expect from a snowboard boot. The support on offer is first class, the comfort is unrivalled and the performance is superior. Intermediate and advanced ladies looking for something next level to help push their riding to its limits, look no further.

Pros:

• The stiffer flex offers great response for advanced riders wanting to push it
• Nidecker certainly haven’t scrimped on the top-shelf tech

Cons:

• Novices need not apply, these are for advanced riders only

“After Nidecker pro Tiphanie Perrotin bagged gold at the Freeride World Tour in February, we wanted to give her a burly boot capable of stomping the biggest freeride lines. If you’re into betting, put your chips on her Kitas standing back on top of the podium next year.”

Buy the Nidecker Kita: €390 at Blue Tomato EU