Freeride boots
Product 2020
Woman, Man
We were able to test the K2 Mindbender for a full week in powder conditions during big freeride outings.
We’re dealing with a freerando boot that emphasizes skiability while being capable of handling some uphill (equipped with Low Tech inserts) or walking to reach a slope or for a valley floor return.
We immediately appreciated the lever at the heel, allowing for a smooth and easy transition from ski to walk mode. It’s easily manipulated, even in extremely cold conditions with snow and ice. It’s easy to grab with gloves thanks to a thin cord with a tip. Two or three times, we had trouble engaging the lever to switch to ski mode because we were in a hyper-flexed ankle position: in that case, simply standing up and putting pressure on the rear allows the lever to engage.
Another significant positive aspect is that you can switch to walk mode even if the top buckles are closed, which is not the case for all boots in this category, notably the Rossignol Alltrack Pro 130. So, it’s enough to unlock the rear lever to comfortably walk with ankle flexion, an operation further facilitated by the Gripwalk sole, which has become a true standard.
We were immediately struck by the noise of the boot in walk mode: it squeaks! The collar is the culprit. However, in ski mode, there’s no noise, which is a relief!
The K2 Mindbender 120 LV is a very attractive boot that draws attention. Beautifully designed, it makes you want to wear it and ski everywhere.
The foot slips easily into it; however, you need to keep an eye on the tongue, which tends to get caught in the shell, but it’s nothing serious.
The buckles are a joy to use as they can be manipulated with fingertips or even with the grip of your ski pole while on the chairlift. The buckles are powerful and ensure precise closure. They are also aesthetically pleasing, which is a nice touch. The third buckle from the bottom is sometimes not aligned with the ladder, causing slight wear on the axis.
Once on the skis, we appreciate a well-balanced flex and a stiff point that arrives very gradually. When it’s warm, the 120 flex feels slightly overrated, whereas when temperatures drop, it’s just right. The K2 Mindbender 120 LV allows for fast skiing on and off-piste without restricting ankle flexion. Lateral transfers are also good, although not on par with a 100% piste boot. Despite the sensation of internal volume, it’s a precise boot, both comfortable and firm in certain areas: the ankle and top of the shin. We would have liked a more precise wrap from the tongue on the top of the shin; it’s a bit too flat.
Seeing a bit of daylight between the shell and the joint at the front of the boot, we were concerned it might let in moisture, but that’s not the case after our intensive sessions. However, it’s something to keep an eye on over time. The liner is warm and seems to be of better quality than that of the Rossignol. Yet, the K2 weighs less at 1730 grams on our scale compared to 1830 for the Rossignol (though with a 130 flex).
The K2 Mindbender 120 LV is an excellent boot for freeride and free randonneurs who prioritize the descent. Precise, it allows for fast skiing in all conditions and benefits from a very practical, efficient walk/ski system. However, it is (very) noisy in walk mode…
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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