There is a revolutionary new ski boot making its debut in the market - phaenom, and they are doing a limited launch today before the global launch in Fall '24.

The definition of phaenom by Merriam-Webster is: phe·​nom ˈfē-ˌnäm fi-ˈnäm. : a person of phenomenal ability or promise. Meanwhile, @phaenom uses the definition: /fay’nom/ A way to describe a remarkable person or act of nature.

With a name like phaenom, it's no surprise that their mission of combining circularity and practicality in the outdoor footwear industry is completely transforming the ski boot market. They will be offering ski boots that are completely recyclable and repairable, which is both practical for the budget and the environment. phaenom is a '1% For The Planet' and a 'B-Certified' corporation, proving they have socially and environmentally conscious practices backed by industry leaders in sustainability.

phaenom is launching two styles of ski boots to start - a freeride (fr) and a freestyle (fs) boot - built off the same last. "The fs collection includes four models designed to achieve flex perfection and shock absorption whether buttering rollers or stomping landings in the park. The fr family features another four models, nearly identical to the fs models yet differentiated primarily by the walk mode and tech inserts. The fr models are engineered to be efficient on the way up and dependable at full speed going down." - phaenom Official Press Release

This project has been a long time coming; over two years ago, we confirmed that Full Stack Supply Co, the parent company for Faction and United Shapes, was launching a boot in the coming years. Fast forward a year, and we partnered with phaenom to give away 5 pairs of boots for Newschoolers members to become part of the initial cohort.

We tracked down phaenom's head of hard goods, Daniel Tanzer, to get the insider scoop before the limited launch of phaenom footwear. We scoured through social media and the forums for any mention of phaenom and compiled a list of questions for Daniel, who has been the head of hardgoods for FSSC since @milo spoke to him two years ago.

What was the choice in the sizing breakdown? Will larger and smaller sizes be available in the global launch?

The development of ski boots is a lengthy precision process where sizes are produced individually. The ski boots are produced in molds, and a separate mold is required for each size. The standard is to produce the most-worn/most-sold sizes first, in the ‘middle of the distribution curve,’ which are sizes 25, 26, and 27. We have already created additional molds for other sizes, but for this limited drop, we will make two sizes available, with the 27 expected to be released in December. The full range of sizes from 23/.5 to 28/.5 will be available in fall 2024, and we expect the addition of the 22/.5 and 29/.5 in 2025-26.

Will the website have a stock of replacement parts between the initial limited launch and the global launch late next year?

Yes, replacement parts will be available from the limited drop retail partners, and this winter we will also offer replacement parts for sale as stand-alone products on our website. This is something we’re very excited about as it will ensure our cohort of riders will have the autonomy needed to keep their boots in top shape, and lasting longer - a crucial part of our ethos of emphasizing repairability and recyclability.

Are there any plans for phaenom to create an option for those with narrow feet?

For our first product collection, we have opted for a wide-lasted fit, which is the right choice for our cohort of riders who prefer a more relaxed fit through the midfoot compared to narrow-lasted boots. The heel of our boot is designed to be narrow, providing the best possible fit and avoiding heel lift. Our lower-sized models will come with a 3mm-thicker liner that reduces the volume inside the boot, to adapt to the needs of smaller feet. Additionally, we include volume-reducing insoles as part of the box content.

Will you offer replacement sole options for ISO 5355 bindings, for non-Gripwalk bindings?

No. The industry standard is and will be Gripwalk-compatible bindings. It’s not a decision “we” took; this has been dictated by the market, and we are adapting to this. The entire market is transitioning to the ISO 23223 — alpine ski boots with improved walking soles.

Will the liner itself be purchasable after-market to combat the issue of liners becoming packed out?

Yes. Both versions of our liners—6mm and 9mm—will be available in all sizes for purchase aftermarket. Replaceability and repairability of the boot parts are central to our brand DNA, and this absolutely extends to the liners. Our liner has its own tech story. The liner may be laced for customizable fitting and is designed with an emphasis on sustainability. Its outer sole is designed to absorb high and low-frequency vibrations coming up through the ski boot, making heavy landings more comfortable and reducing foot and leg fatigue. The sole’s extra grip means it's tough enough to be worn at après or on your journey to and from the mountain, and it's made from a minimum of 50% bio-based content.

How does the material react to being altered in punches or heat molds? Are the boots heat moldable?

Yes, the boots are comprised of industry-standard TPU material. The boots may be punched and heat-molded like any other TPU boot. We underscore that this should always be done by an experienced boot-fitter at a qualified phaenom retail partner.

For more information or to see the boots for yourself head to the phaenom website.