Five Ten has taken things up a notch with the new Freerider Pro Boa, a shoe that retains everything that was good about the original—a favorite of gravity riders for years—but adds a game-changing fit system for comfort and precision.
This isn't the first time Five Ten has offered shoes with the Boa Fit System, but with this new one it seems they've found the right combination of closure precision, stability and ease of use.
I've always appreciated the snug fit of the Freerider, and while I'm a bit of a retro supporter of laces, I know that in certain situations they could become a problem, especially if they come undone mid-descent or get caught in the front chainring.
Thanks to the Boa system this problem would seem to be solved, by rotating the wheel the tightening is enveloping, without points of too much pressure. This fact denotes the attention with which the closure of this shoe was designed, since often when you have only one tightening without velcro the risk of losing uniformity in the closure is very high. The only aspect on which I could have some reservations is the positioning of the knob which makes it a bit exposed for gravity use. The convenience that at the end of each descent with a simple gesture the shoe opens and becomes super comfortable again.
The Stealth S1 sole, the flagship of Five Ten
The Dotty sole, made with the famous Stealth compound, never ceases to amaze in terms of grip. I have always been a firm supporter of clipless pedals, but the grip of this sole does not make me miss my beloved SPD. For years free climbers have praised the qualities and grip of this sole, which is confirmed as the best also in the mountain bike field, managing to transmit the necessary safety to tackle the roughest passages and to better guide the bike even in the fastest curves.
A very comfortable shoe.
Those who choose this shoe certainly do not do so for its qualities of transmitting force on the pedals, so our yardstick must conform to the standards of this category. The shoe seemed a little softer than others I have had the opportunity to test. Very comfortable when walking and providing stability on the pedals, thanks above all to the sole we have already talked about. It is not made for long pedal strokes, so flexing while pushing is part of the game. The insert at the tip to protect the foot from impacts and the EVA midsole that increases overall comfort are good.
The EVA midsole and Poron XRD toe box add a little extra stiffness and protection over the standard Freerider. The shoe transfers power more efficiently, so pumping over obstacles—including bumps—and pushing into turns feels even more responsive.
The toe protection is another welcome feature, especially when you hit something unexpected.
Who are they addressing?
For the free rider who loves the bike park, for those who want a super stylish and comfortable shoe, but which thanks to the stealth sole and Boa closure allows excellent performance in riding.
The price is 170 euros and the weight is 364 g.
