For our test team, the BOA closure system was not the highlight but rather a nice supporting feature that enhanced the rest of the new and excellent Hawx Ultra XTD 115 BOA W GW (that's a name, huh?). For our testers, this is one of the best freeride narrow boots they've tested, and its nearly perfect average score supports that. The key boxes were all checked here, testers said: anatomical fit, stance, power, quickness and touring capability--all dialed.
The revised shell and liner of the Ultra XTD 115 improved its entry and exit scores over previous iterations we've tested, which was one of the Ultra XTD's only real flaws in the past--testers had no issues in or out and liked the precise lower boot closure offered by the BOA reel. Some testers with a high, bony midfoot got a little crushed when they ratched down the BOA a bit too far, but found that a couple clicks rotated back out fine tuned the fit and worked just fine.
For as light as the XTD is on the foot, testers were impressed with its stability at speed and through variable terrain--testers said it put fat skis on edge and held them there through taxing turns, so for a on-area/off-area hybrid they felt it was more than capable when riding the chair. Quickness and accuracy has always been a hallmark of the Hawx Ultra boots, whether with fixed cuff or hinged, so it was no surprise to our team that the agility and responsiveness of the Ultra XTD 115 BOA W remained top of class.
Testers unanimously had no complaints about the adjustment and closure features, save one--the power strap was flimsy and its adjustment range was inadequate for average to slender legs. Testers liked the lock-and-release mechanism but roundly panned the strap itself and its limited function.
Kudos
Caveats