I love Boa Systems. Zoot and Specialized have it and I dig it.
The long version is at my blog posted in my sig line at the bottom.
Here is the short version:
BAM!!
The Ultra TT 5.0 lowers with the Ultra Race 4.0 uppers. Fantastic idea! The last shape is the same as previous Ali’I models but the toe box looks to be curved up a little bit more than previously, but maybe that’s just my odd view of the new shoes compared to my older version. The soles still have drainage and the carbon span which gives a nice solid road feel when you push off. There is also a new “Zoot” design for the treads. The heel is the same with the lower profile and strap for putting on in transition. There is no Achilles chaffing as in older “high back” models. The shoes are sockless and extremely comfortable even over a 16 mile training session on the asphalt. The sock liner is the same as previous models with only 2 seams on either side of the ankles, which is not a typical rubbing spot. The weight seems to be a little different with the prior models weighing in at 9.1 ounces per shoe in size 10.5 (without insoles) versus the new weight at 8.7 ounces, so a bonus for us! For reference, the Ultra Race 4.0 is 8.2 ounces in size 10.5. The boa system is quick and adjustable on the fly and firmly holds your heel in place when running which gives a very secure “one with the shoes” feeling. If you look closely at the lacing system, you’ll notice the Boa system has a strap that goes around the upper part of the heel to keep it in place. I almost expected this to hurt but it was the exact opposite. It made the shoe that much more comfortable. And the black and yellow design is very cool and matches the new Ultra Team kit colors and design with a bit of Hawaii floral pattern. There is also a “30” on the toe area which I assume is for the years supporting triathletes.
My only true complaint, the heel to toe drop is a bit off. It would be nice to see another 2 – 4 mm taken off the back end (again, maybe I need to take out the power tools?). Now, why did I mention a special appearance by Specialized S-Works Tri-Vent? They both serve the same function for their respective sports. And they both get some flak for being a gimmick not worth the price.
So are they worth it or just another expensive gimmick meant to deceive the triathlon community?
I suggest they are the most important thing a triathlete should be looking at. Take the bike shoes. Roadies will forever claim that tri shoes are worthless on a bike and especially when climbing as your foot is not held securely in place and the rider gives up a lot of power. Triathletes make claims for faster transitions into and out of the shoes. But both can’t co-exist right? Wrong. Having the heel open makes the shoes great to slip on and off in a triathlon, but utilizing the Boa system, the rider can crank down the dial and secure the heel to the shoe and making the S-Works Tri-Vent a road worthy shoe.
Runners make the same claims as roadies. A real shoe uses laces and is tied securely to the foot. Triathletes need to slip on shoes on the fly and sometimes when wet. They need easy entry. So the same thing for the Zoot Ultra Race 4 and the Ultra Ali’i 6 run shoes. With the boa system, the triathlete can easily slip them on and then ratchet them down until snug. What’s even better is how easy it is to relieve some pressure when your foot swells and pop the Boa dial to open the laces a bit.
I highly recommend the new Specialized S-Works Tri-Vents and the Zoot Ultra Race 4 and Ultra Ali’I 6 and propose that the Boa System is not a gimmick rather a foot and power saving tool that is much needed for the triathlon community
I am NOT sponsored by Zoot or anyone for that matter, just loving the products and had a VERY rare opportunity to try these hot off the production line.