BOA dials are a component of the shoe and a tool that increases the quality of the fit. The dials and the closure system (a complex assembly that goes far beyond the external dials) have become over time also an icon for many users of the different categories, which also christen the quality of the technical shoe thanks to the presence of those wheels that have changed cycling shoes (and not only).
BOA, the logic that makes the difference
The BOA closure it is often identified in a simplistic way, but there's not just the wheel external to the shoe. There are the cables and the anchoring mechanism to the upper, there are the rotors and their designs. This package is the result of a complex research that also aims to make the upper "work" in an optimal way, without distorting the peculiarities of the shoe. And then there is the relationship between the company that produces the shoes, BOA itself and the development processes in which professional riders are also involved. Among the teams supported technically there is the team Bora Hansgrohe among men and Canyon//Sram Racing among the female team, just to name two examples.
Li2, top of the range and latest born
As with the versions that preceded it, also in the case of the Li2 system we have a base, but different configurations that best adapt to the various needs and categories of footwear. In any case, it is argued that the system is at the top of the price list, especially in terms of technical performance. BOA Li2 has three variants. And there are also those in aluminum, a sort ofi Limited Edition.
An eye on the materials
The Li2 system is made by reducing materials during production. BOA Li2 is lighter than ever before (compared to the previous IP-1), more aerodynamic, and offers a more effective closure. Each BOA system is the result of a partnership between the shoe's proprietary brand and the BOA Fit System R&D department. A package it is not simply taken and placed on the shoe, but is the object of study and customization, based on the design, the materials used for the upper and the sole.
The Nimbl Exceed model with Li2 rotors (@MarcinKin BOA) The new Gaerne G.Stilo (@MarcinKin BOA) Fizik shoes (@MarcinKin BOA)
The Nimbl Exceed model with Li2 rotors (@MarcinKin BOA) The new Gaerne G.Stilo (@MarcinKin BOA) Fizik shoes (@MarcinKin BOA)
Li2, how it is made
Each configuration is made up of multiple parts and each one performs a very specific function: the first is a base integrated into the upper that supports the wheel. Under the base we find a cartridge with micrometric mechanism which allows you to wind and release the cable (it is also interesting to note the capacity of the Li2 system, which allows for the accommodation of 40 cm of cable, which is quite a lot). The latter can be made of Dyneema and Polyester (TX4), or of stainless steel coated in nylon (CS2). Finally there is a guide which is adapted to the shoe design and upper.
The closure offers enormous ease of action, with a light pressure to lock the cable. Or pull the rotor to unlock. Li2 can rotate in both directions, clockwise and counterclockwise, without risk of damaging the internal block. The wheel has an increased thickness and diameter, with a TPU perimeter, very resistant even to external impacts and with a grip that helps adjustment when on the move. Simple and intuitive, practical and high-performance, sustainable in the various production phases that are modernised step by step, this is BOA Fit System.
