Thoroughly enjoying a day of snowmobiling or other fun outdoor activities is never possible with cold, wet and uncomfortable feet. Beyond warmth and waterproof requirements, comfort and protection are also chief goals of an over-the-snow boot. Thankfully, Klim set out to create a boot aiming for an A+ grade in each subject.
The Havoc GTX Boa is the world’s first snowbike-specific boot designed for the extreme abuse encountered during a day of single-powerskiing. Klim partnered with Michelin to incorporate the WIC winter compound material inspired by the Michelin X-Ice3 or X-Ice North2 tires into the boot’s sole. This rubber is resistant to cold temperatures, resists abrasion and has a softer/more compliant feel while retaining anti-slip properties.
Since material selection is key, Klim also worked hard to create the proper sculptures on the sole to enhance stability, utilized grooves and a step pattern for water evacuation or grip in snowy conditions, and inserted a key reinforcement in the instep to combat foot-peg wear during riding.
To combat the elements, 600 gram Thinsulate insulation provides ample warmth, while Gore-Tex is guaranteed to keep you dry. An oversize upper Velcro hook-and-loop material closure holds the reinforced shin plate protector tightly to the body of the boot. A heavy duty Hypalon mid-wrap strap provides additional front protection yet is flexible for easy on/off. Despite all of these extra zones of coverage, the Havoc maintains a slimmed toe profile to provide easy shifting.
I tend to be rather abusive on foot-wear, but the Havoc boots were exactly what the doctor ordered. My feet were never cold, even at temperatures of negative 25 degrees Fahrenheit while wearing thin socks. On spring days my feet were never wet or sweaty.
I also like to wear all boots tight – like really, really tight – which is where the Boa closure system is so essential. The single Boa on the Havoc boot is extremely convenient for on/off, yet I found myself riding for a few minutes, then squatting/bending to further tighten the knob a few clicks as the material be-came more compliant under repeated flexion.
The overall height of the boot is slightly taller than most, which is welcomed when wearing shin guards – for feeling secure/protected – with an extra bonus that the top of the Havoc closure doesn’t feel thick or bulky.
Durability was generally good, though the scratch rubber and leather construction at mid-body beneath the Klim patch logo began to deflect outward, leaving a slight crease in the material as the boots broke in. Further miles will tell if this section begins to fatigue or crack.
The boot works fantastically aboard a snowbike, and now my choice for ’biles too.
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