The BOA-equipped "RECON & Anthem" has evolved even further!
One of K2's top news items for the 2026-2027 season is the dramatic evolution of the "RECON" with its BOA® Fit System and the women's "Anthem." While the slogan is "Upgraded Everything," what exactly has changed?
The BOA® Fit System has given ski boots a new option. K2, a leading brand in this field with its CORTEX technology, has upgraded its '26-27 "RECON & Anthem" models on a scale that could be described as a complete redesign. Everything from the system to the shell and liner has been revamped. What are the intriguing details?
A "BOA®-exclusive shell" redesigned from the ground up
The most significant feature of this upgrade is the completely redesigned shell, which maximizes the performance of the BOA® Fit System
Innovative "Zonal BOA®" and dual-material cuff
The higher-end models feature "Zonal BOA®," which allows for independent adjustment at two points: the cuff (shin side) and the shell (top of the foot)
The evolution of the midfoot
By optimizing the wrapping from the instep to the midfoot, the BOA®'s unique "uniform tightening" ensures secure and comfortable support
Internal rib structure
The specially designed ribs provide uniform and stable support around the foot, enabling precise adjustments that were not possible with conventional buckle systems
Optimization of rigidity
By increasing the thickness of the plastic around the heel and ankle, support has been enhanced, improving power transfer and control
Dual material structure
The cuff features a rigid material on the back for strong support, while the front panel uses a flexible material, achieving both adaptability to the shin and a snug, enveloping fit
The birth of the next-generation "P Series Liner"
The liner, which is the point of contact with the foot, has also been completely redesigned as the "P Series"
Ankle Zone Optimization
The premium P1 and P2 liners feature a "dual-material construction" that combines hard and soft materials to enhance support and precision
Anatomical design
The collar and tongue have been anatomically redesigned to provide personalized comfort that molds to your feet right out of the box
Staff member Ichihashi introduces it in a video at SNOW EXPO JAPAN 2026
"Anthem": A truly high-performance shoe for women
Until now, most women's boots have tended to be simply scaled-down versions of higher-end models for production efficiency. K2 directly challenged this market trend by producing the "Anthem." It marked the birth of a true ladies' boot, designed from scratch exclusively for women
A true 21.5-inch size created from a mold
For the first time, a shell mold specifically designed for female skiers in size 21.5 was developed from scratch. This isn't just a scaled-down version; it promises uncompromising fit and performance even for women with smaller feet
Features geometry specifically designed for women
The boot's forward lean angle can be adjusted in three stages—11°/13°/15°—slightly deeper than the Recon (10°/12°/14°), to suit a woman's physique. This allows you to ski with a comfortable feeling that matches your own skiing style
For the 2026-2027 season, the lineup has been expanded to allow users to freely choose the flex that suits their skiing style, rather than focusing on budget. Previously, the stiffer the flex, the higher the model, and the more expensive the boots were, due to the materials and features used
However, RECON/AnthemX breaks this concept, allowing users to choose a flex that suits their skill level and preferences, regardless of price. Three different flexes are available at the same price while maintaining the same performance
Mindbender undergoes a complete model change!
The Mindbender, K2's flagship freeride series, delivers high performance on all types of terrain. For the 2026-2027 season, this renowned model underwent significant specification changes based on the concept of purpose-specific design
The biggest functional improvement is the incorporation of "Dark Matter" technology. This feature, which has been used in the "Disruption Collection" since the 2023 season, suppresses unpleasant vibrations transmitted to the skis. It keeps the skis in constant contact with the snow surface, allowing for high control even at high speeds
Dark Matter Technology features four vibration-absorbing materials (black sections) positioned along the edge of the ski's topsheet. The placement varies slightly depending on the model and size. The damping polymer material suppresses vibrations, preventing unpleasant sensations.
While the core material uses the conventional "Titernal I-beam," it's interesting that the amount of titanal used has been deliberately reduced by 20% to improve the continuity of force transfer. This allows for a light and responsive feel while maintaining strength
The collection consists of six models, ordered from widest waist to widest: 111, 101, 96, 90, 88, and 85. Each model has distinct characteristics tailored to its intended use, such as the 111 for tackling big mountains and the 101 for covering an entire mountain range. *Note: The 90 and 85 models do not feature "Dark Matter" or "Titernal" technology
Mindbender 111 | Deep Snow, Backcountry, Freestyle
The 111mm width provides buoyancy in deep snow, while dark matter suppresses vibrations. It remains stable even at high speeds, allowing you to confidently conquer rough slopes
Mindbender 96 | All-around for the entire mountain
It combines the sharpness of groomed snow with the ability to traverse fresh snow at a high level. The Titanal I-beam delivers powerful grip on all snow conditions
If you unravel the history of freeskiing, you'll almost always end up here. Starting with the hip mogul guru Glenn Plake, K2 has been used by leading big-mountain riders of the era, including Seth Morrison, Kent Kreitler, and Shane McConkey. Along with these riders, who caused mayhem in major ski movies from MSP and TGR, K2 has dominated the freeskiing world and gained immense support
The late Shane McConkey introduced the "Pontoon," a pioneering full rocker, and it's hard to forget how rocker shapes have since become standard. They offer a diverse lineup across a wide range of genres, actively collaborate with artists, and offer many unique and distinctive models. They're suitable for all types of riding, from big mountain to backcountry and park riding. They also have a wide selection of models for women
