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Nidecker Talon Focus 2018-2019 Snowboard Boots Review

Nailed it

This isn’t the first year of Nidecker boots, nor is it the first for the Talon Focus. It is, however, the first for the Nidecker Talon Focus snowboard boots. Confused? Read on.

Last year the boot division of Flow (a company still best known for its rear-entry bindings) was absorbed by Nidecker with minimal changes to the range. So while the Nidecker Talon Focus has been given a new logo and a couple of aesthetic tweaks, it’s still the same top-end freeride boot that can handle the most skin-quiveringly dangerous descents.

“The outer shell is clearly built to last, despite weighing a lot less than you’d expect”

Only the highest levels of boot tech have been applied to the Nidecker Talon Focus, starting with the premium liner. It’s fully heat-mouldable, but even without that treatment you get comfort in spades thanks to the high-density foam structure and neoprene toe box. Your heel is kept on lockdown all day by the simple-yet-effective lacing system and latex J-Bars.

Underneath your foot is an ergonomically-shaped insole, with a tough-as-nails rubber outsole below that. A gel system provides extra protection for the areas of your foot that take the most impact, with shock-absorbing Vibram rubber liberally applied elsewhere.

Lacing systems are still largely about personal preference, but it makes sense for the Nidecker Talon Focus to feature a double Boa closure. You can crank ‘em as tight as you like for maximum response, with the option to customise the upper and lower sections for the ideal fit.

“Only the highest levels of boot tech have been applied to the Nidecker Talon Focus, starting with the premium liner”

Knowing that they’ll eventually have to deal with exposed peaks in the worst conditions,
the Nidecker crew have equipped these with an insulating layer directly under your foot. There’s also extra waterproofing up to the ankle, and the outer shell is clearly built to last, despite weighing a lot less than you’d expect.

The Nidecker Talon Focus snowboard boots are at the other end of the scale from the K2 Taro Tamai Snowsurfer, but both will suit their target audience down to the ground. In this case, it’s the redlining hellmen of the steep and deep that should be taking a closer look at these, and they’ll like what they find.

Trade Secrets

Thierry Kunz – Brand Manager, Nidecker

“These are without a doubt the boots that all of our backcountry riders love the most. The Talon is best-in-class when it comes to comfort, thanks to the FLOW fit. It is also stiff enough to offer the highest amount of control you could dream of.

The Talon features a Vibram sole, and ArmorTech reinforced materials with a protective rubber application, to guarantee it will keep its original form during the entire season.

If you like stiff, yet comfortable boot, the Talon will be the perfect boot for you.”

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