Market: Up to now, the Boa screw cap was almost only known from racing bike shoes. Scott Sports in particular relied on the easy-to-use system. With the improvement of the closure, companies such as Five Ten are now also using the Boa system, which means that it is also used in the all-mountain and enduro sectors.
The new boa® Screw cap IP-1 (Incremental Push & Pull) is an extension of the proven closure system and is intended to create a convincing balance of precision and comfort. The big advantage of IP-1: It can not only be tightened step by step (1 click = 1mm), but also loosened again. This precise fine adjustment enables quick and easy adjustment to the individual needs of the athlete. Mirrored fasteners on the right and left allow tightening and loosening on either side by turning the dial in one direction.
What remains is the well-known pull-to-release function: With a single pull on the twist-lock fastener, the locking system can be completely opened in a flash. A plus in comfort and tried and tested by triathletes who rely on quick putting on and taking off their shoes. The innovative, hexagonal shape with TPE overmoulding ensures good grip when making adjustments. Weight fetishists also get their money's worth: the IP1 twist lock weighs only 1/2 to 1/3 of normal locking systems.
Five Ten Kestrel
The Five Ten Kestrel is the first enduro and all-mountain shoe to feature the new Boa® Screw cap IP-1 used. After a long development period, it will be launched this summer. The new twist lock allows the ambitious biker to close and loosen the shoe step by step while riding (1 click = 1mm). For easy and intuitive handling, the twist locks are mirrored on the right and left, which means that they are turned in one direction on both sides. The new IP-1 also offers a comfortable hold without pressure points, dirt-repellent materials and absolute robustness.
The concept of making the sole from rubber compounds of different hardnesses also works: The hard C4 rubber around the cleat insert makes it easy to click in and out and, together with the reinforced midsole, ensures optimal power transmission to the pedal. The ultra-soft Mi6 rubber compound on the heel and toe offers good grip and pleasant cushioning when running.
Retail: 165 euros; Weight: 840 grams / pair
Gaerne G. Sincro
The Gaerne G. Sincro mountain bike shoe combines low weight with optimal comfort. The soft, perforated microfiber upper works with the new Boa® Screw cap IP-1 for a comfortable fit. The twist locks can be tightened and loosened gradually (1 click = 1 mm). This guarantees individual comfort without pressure points. The adjustment can be made easily and quickly while driving - by intuitively turning the twist locks on both sides in one direction. The hexagonal shape of the screw cap and the rubber edge guarantee a good grip when turning. The nylon-coated steel cable is extremely robust and, like the rest of the system, dirt-repellent. Gaerne also plays at the highest level with the sole and offers the buyer two different carbon options. In combination with the heel control system and a replaceable insole, optimal power transmission is guaranteed.
Retail: 349,90 euros; Weight: 734 grams / pair
Companies that rely on the Boa screw cap: Gaerne, Fizik, Scott Sports, Pearl Izumi, Lake, Bont Cycling, Specialized, Five Ten, Bontrager