Test: FXR Helium Pro BOA Boots
With my preference for off-trail riding, the FXR Helium Pro BOA boots have genuinely changed the way I ride in mountain situations. Often, I didn't have enough support under my feet (soles), and my calves or shins would sometimes hit the steps. Now, thanks to the advanced design and strict focus on off-trail snowmobiling, these boots helped me improve my driving skills by providing more comfort and a feeling of protection.
FXR has been innovating with high-quality products by involving many ambassadors to get "feedback" from professionals. Afterward, the products are improved, and it seems like the development team has done its homework by offering boots that I would call perfect!
We start with an eye-catching design that includes a choice of colors to suit all preferences. Then, when we take them, we quickly notice that all the materials used are of the highest quality and that the conception does not leave any detail out.
Here are the main features of the FXR Helium Pro BOA boots;
- -50 °C rating with 700 g insulation
- BOA® Dual Zone tensioning system
- Fixed inner lining with a synthetic fur-type textile
- Robust 2 mm strategic rubber reinforcements
- Ultra-low-profile molded shoe toe cap for increased durability
- 20 mm thick EVA midsole for maximum shock absorption
- FXR high-traction outsole with high traction, high stiffness, and durability
- Rigid upper calf reinforcements
- Calf and Achilles tendon padding for optimal protection
With such features, it is not surprising that they are designed for off-trail or "race" driving. The hyper rigid support and maximum protection are perfect for aggressive driving.
To give you fair and honest comments, I wore these boots for more than 1000 km this winter, 60% on trails, and the other portion off trails to put them to the test. So, here are my comments.
BOA H3 dual-zone laces/tightening system
My first observation is the efficiency of the BOA® Dual Zone tensioning system. It's simple, fast, and the adjustment is perfect every time in just a few seconds. Just WOW! I would not do without it now that I have tried it.
My second observation is that the FXR Helium Pro BOA boots are designed for standing position riding because of the pre-molded shape of the boot, you get excellent support. However, in a seated position, there is some pressure on the calf and/or front of the leg due to the shape of the boots, especially on snowmobiles where the seat is low. That's why I wouldn't recommend these boots for someone who only wants to ride on trails, mostly in a seated position. On the other hand, FXR makes other excellent products more suitable for the trail such as the FXR X-Cross Speed.
The FXR Helium Pro boots offer the ultimate protection for your feet and calves. The front and the calf support are higher than usual. This ensures that the lower part of the calf to the feet is well protected. So, for the off-trail driving, it's perfect.
The 20 mm EVA midsole absorbs shock and vibration. Moreover, even the most aggressive steps will never overcome the super-strong sole. It offers a lot of bite, and that's what we're looking for in off-trail.
It is cold resistance up to -50°C and has 700 g of insulation, which is more than enough for those who move when snowmobiling. Besides, the interior with synthetic fur and padded soles contribute greatly to comfort, and moisture goes away very effectively.
The FXR Helium Pro boots always kept my feet warm, and at no time I felt humidity. Moreover, the waterproofing is excellent, I ended up in the water, and it was quite profound, and I didn't even get any water in my boots.
The FXR Helium Pro BOA boots are adapted to my off-trail and aggressive driving. The materials used are of the highest quality, comfort is excellent, and the BOA system is now an essential part of my life.
Thanks to FXR for the test of the Helium Pro BOA boots.
