• Price: £275
• Sizes: UK 6-12
• Flex: 9
• Lacing System: Speed
• NORTHWAVESNOW.COM

Northwave don’t do things by halves; for as long as they’ve been in the game, their focus on high-performance gear has been second to none. The Northwave Prophecy SL has a new look for 2016/17, but is no less a team favourite that it has been in previous winters. The pros’ input is all over this one, and the end result is a serious boot for the park and beyond.

Northwave have redesigned their TF3 lining just for this model, in order to make it fully compatible with the new lacing system. It works like a corset, applying even pressure over the whole liner as you pull the lace, with the exception of the very top which has a powerstrap. The two work seamlessly together to give you a precise fit, and the rest of the TF3’s features – EVA footbed, targeted cushioning for ideal movement, memory foam and lots more – aren’t too shabby either.

“It’s a stiff boot as is, but you can up it further by applying plastic inserts”

The ‘SL’ stands for ‘Super Lace’ – a name that writes a pretty hefty cheque. Fortunately the system lives up to it; a highly effective speed-lace with zonal tightening, it also passes through a loop on each side that’s connected to the material around the ankle. As you tighten the lace, your heel is put into lockdown, and will stay that way no matter how long you’re out riding for.

It’s a stiff boot as is, but you can up it further by applying plastic inserts. They’re easy to remove on the fly, so you can alter the response based on where you’re riding and what you’re doing.

The back of the boot is extra tough, with reinforced rubber that minimises the wear and tear caused by the binding’s heelcup and highback. As for the sole, a liberal smattering of Vibram soaks up everything from everyday chatter to nasty knuckle clips on the XL line.

High-end freestyle boots are worth shelling out for, when they’re the right ones for you. Expect many a self-respecting park slayer to be rocking the Northwave Prophecy SL this winter. That’s our forecast, anyway…