Introducing the new brand "phaenom" for the 2023-24 season. It's handled by Full Stack Supply, the same company behind FACTION, and this winter they released eight models in two categories: freeride and freeski. After four years of research and development, "phaenom" was created using a new mold. Manufactured in Montebelluna, Italy, a town famous for its shoemakers, the brand pursues style, simplicity, comfort, and freeskiing performance
All parts are recyclable
The all-black color scheme actively encourages the repair and reuse of boots and each part, and from the buckles, straps, and screws, each item is made from recyclable materials from the design stage onwards. This is a strong reflection of how Europe is making its products from renewable materials
Distinctive two-buckle and wide strap
First, let's look at the product's appearance. Its distinctive features are its "two buckles" and "wide straps." While two buckles make it easier to put on and take off, you may be wondering whether it will fasten properly. That's where the wide straps come in handy. While many skiers replace the straps that originally came with their boots with more elastic power belts like BOOSTER, the wide "Phaenom Straps" eliminate this. They offer excellent shock absorption and flex control, providing a consistent feel and rebound throughout turns. These straps improve comfort and stability
Carefully crafted inner boots
Not only was the shell mold newly developed from scratch, but the inner boot was also packed with attention to detail. The inner sole is made of a hard material, eliminating the need for the footbed that is usually installed inside the shell, providing solid stability. In addition, the Phenom x LENZ insole comes as standard, providing a better fit and stable feel
The adjustable tongue position, which is common in alpine racing models, is a feature not found in many freeski models. It allows you to adjust the fit to better suit your ankle angle
Furthermore, the Phenom's inner boots are shoelace-type, so like competition models such as lace-up and basic models, you put on the inner boots first and then the shell. The Phenom boots themselves are targeted at advanced and expert skiers, so they are designed to handle high-level skiing. And not only will they be sold as a set with the shell, but the inner boots will also be sold separately. In fact, riders who have tried the Phenom boots have expressed a desire to get just the inner boots as Phenom boots, so their performance is guaranteed
Model lineup
The eight models released are divided into freeride (FR) and freeski (FS) models, each with four different flex options. The difference between FR and FS is the presence or absence of a walk mode and tech insert. FR is designed for comfortable climbing and withstands high-speed descents. The shell is a three-piece cabriole design with two buckles. The upper cuff creates a snug fit. The lower shell has a 102mm last width for comfort even when worn for long periods of time
The FR model is available in flex 100/110/120/130 and costs 107,800 yen. The FS model is available in flex 90/100/110/120 and costs 96,800 yen. Even though the flex is different, they are all priced the same
Antti Ollila, Akira Hoshino and other riders also praised
Furthermore, FACTION rider Antti Ollila and other well-known riders were involved in the development of these boots. Fellow FACTION rider Kouga Hoshino also gave them high praise. He actually used them on snow and praised them, saying, "They provide great stability when landing."
The two-buckle design makes fastening the buckle a breeze. Both the buckle and strap are thick and provide a secure hold, which I like. The insole has excellent shock absorption, so you can stomp on even hard landings
The Phaenom straps also stiffen the flex when tightened, and loosen them to loosen the flex, so I like how the flex can be changed depending on the adjustment. The simple all-black design doesn't stand out too much, and it goes well with any outfit, which is a plus
Koga Hoshino
We plan to unveil the Phenom test boots at the FACTION Ski Test Ride this winter. Come try them on and see how they feel with this new wave of skis
Information
pheanom
Official website: https://www.phaenom-footwear.com/Official
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