Splitboard.com Forums

Hi all,

Was just reading an interview by Steve on TetonAT with Xavier de la Rue (http://www.tetonat.com/2011/03/07/more- ... de-le-rue/) and he mentioned he had developed a new boot with a stiff sole for crampons. There is a link in the article. He doesn't mention what boot it is specifically but here is the website for those interested and wanting to dig a bit deeper:

http://www.deeluxe.com/products/

Thought that might be worth sharing

SOmeone posted some pics from SIA in another thread of the "Spark" by deelux which I think is what he is talking about. Interested to see what becomes of this.

Here it is:

viewtopic.php?f=10&t=10402

Don't see welts on the pics but if they cay they are compatible they must be.

Perhaps Deluxe could incorporate a Dynafit Sole?

Afaik there are no crampons that fit to Dynafit-Inserts on the market.

I don't understand, why Xavier says, "I can use a step-in crampon...", when quite obviously those boots haven't got welts.

Probably he's got a different sole on his boots.
The production ones don't seem to have such, unfortunately.

Yeah Flo, I am with ya, clearly the boots pictured do not have welt ledges. Of course, these may not be the final production models either... In any case, these boots are going to be very nice. I did a little digging, and can confirm that there is a plastic (surlyn) midsole to stiffen the sole of the boot like a mountaineering boot. This will make for much better climbing performance, even with strap on crampons, which actually work very well.
Additionally Deeluxe makes very nice boots, with a really good moldable liner.
One of my partners has already ordered a pair from our shop. I would suggest that anyone who wants these be sure to order them, I am not so sure that many shops will actually stock them, as the price is going to be a little high.
These and the latest Sparks (with LT pin) are interesting enough to have me considering putting together a soft set up in addition to my hard set up.