IN-CLIMB

  • Prize
    Winner in Sportswear Design / Snowsports
  • University
    University of Houston
  • Lead Designer
    Gerardo De Los Reyes
  • Contributor(Other)
    Robert Lumbard
  • Design Status
    Concept
  • Project Link

Description
In-Climb is a ski boot concept designed for skiers who prioritize comfort, mobility, and usability without sacrificing performance. Traditional ski boots are rigid and uncomfortable when walking, especially in resort settings where skiers must move between lifts, lodges, and terrain. In-Climb solves this with a jointed toe cap that pivots at the MTP joint, allowing the forefoot to flex naturally. A simple locking mechanism ensures stability while skiing, and disengages for greater mobility when walking. Ideal for recreational resort skiers and families, In-Climb supports a more intuitive skiing experience by reducing fatigue and enabling a smoother transition between skiing and everyday movement. The boot maintains full compatibility with standard ski bindings, ensuring accessibility without the need for specialized gear. In-Climb combines ergonomic thinking with slope-ready durability to rethink what comfort and control should feel like in modern ski footwear.

Innovation
In-Climb introduces a pivot mechanism at the MTP joint, allowing for natural toe flexion while walking and locking in place for skiing. This addresses a major comfort gap in ski boot design; traditional boots restrict forefoot movement, causing fatigue and awkward gait during off-slope use. The pivot is centered using dual rivets aligned with the MTP joint axis, while a manual push-button locking system on the toe cap engages internal prongs to secure the boot for downhill performance. Designed for comfort-first recreational and resort skiers, In-Climb balances mobility and control without requiring custom bindings or gear. It promotes a more natural walking stride between runs, during lift lines, or while navigating resort terrain. This concept reimagines ski boot ergonomics with the goal of reducing pain and improving the all-day skiing experience, without compromising structural performance.

Product Detail
In-Climb is composed of a three-part rigid outer shell and a flexible inner liner. The outer shell features an ABS-based thermoplastic construction, commonly used in ski boots for its strength and cold-weather durability. The pivot mechanism at the MTP joint is anchored using metal rivets, and the toe cap slides over a recessed ridge in the center shell to control range of motion. The interior liner is modeled after EVA foam designs for warmth, comfort, and anatomical fit.

Specification
The current prototype is a size US Men's 9 equivalent, designed for resort-based recreational skiing. Future sizing would include full men’s and women’s size ranges, with adjustable fit via heat-moldable liners. The boot features a manually operated locking system and is fully compatible with standard ski bindings.



  • FIT Seal

FIT Sport Design Awards 2025
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