French mountaineering company Millet is hoping climbers will put their faith and their feet in the new BOA 1st (MSRP: $105), the first rock-climbing shoe on the market to feature the BOA lacing system.
After making a splash in the snowboard and ski boot market in recent years, the revolutionary BOA system will attempt to get a toehold in the climbing world this spring.
The wire-lace ratchet system is known for distributing equal pressure throughout the laces with an efficient turn of a knob and a quick release in a single move. A reinforced tongue and padded collar help keep the hot spots at bay on these 17-ounce (pair) suede, nylon and rubber shoes designed for technical climbing both indoors and out. A slightly asymmetric design includes a flexible gum sole, heel and top panel for toe smearing.
Get it: At Backcountry Experience in Durango, or on the Web at , or .
Scott Willoughby, The Denver Post
