MULLAIR
The Ultimate Free Ride Snowboard Boot
THIS IS NICOLAS MULLER
Nico is considered a legend in the industry and is regarded as one of the greatest athletes in snowboarding. Competing in contests earlier in his career he quickly climbed to number one in the world rankings.
Backcountry and natural terrain is where Nico’s personality, creativity and unique vision is put on full display. The style and flow of freestyle collides with technical backcountry riding, setting into motion mesmerizing lines, jaw dropping airs and his signature Method Air.
MY ROLE
Lead designer
Color, material and finish
Merchandiser
Product line manager
BROKEN BUT NOT BEATEN
THE CHALLENGE
Since suffering an ankle injury early in his career, Nico has been primarily concerned with ankle support and heel cushioning. Snow boots are typically built for comfort, relying on soft plush liners that entice consumers with initial fit which quickly loses shape and becomes ill-fitting. Support and stability is based on how tightly the boot can be laced providing a false sense of security.
The challenge is to design a snow boot that provides protection for the ankle and foot with stable lockdown solutions. Address ways to improve cushioning to alleviate heel bruise. The boot construction should also enhance Muller’s riding style facilitating movement and flexibility. Aesthetics should be a reflection of the safety features and functionality.
HIGH LEVEL GOALS:
- Safety - Ankle lockdown and support with mobility
- Barrier - Protection from elements and deep powder
- Style - Make itinerary building flexible, fun and simple to use
BREAKING DOWN USER NEEDS
BRAINSTORM
Identifying and categorizing problem areas typically found in snow boots based on conversations with Nico, the terrain he typically rides, riding style and injury history. Once mapped out, features can be added to the boot to fulfill the challenge in the simplest way.
SAFETY FIRST
IDEATION
Addressing the issue of heel cushioning going beyond typical midsole foam for dampening. In place of a traditional internal heel counter we used a 3D molded heel cup, inspired from soccer shoes. This compresses the heel and keeps the fatty deposits from spreading out on impact, utilizing the bodies natural cushioning.
Heel dampening concept inspired by soccer boots
Lockdown concepts manipulating lace position and eyestay shape
Zipperless gaitor and material exploration for weatherproofing
Minimal weld and shape exploration to enhance flexibility without compromising support.
PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER
REFINEMENT
Piecing together all the themes from the ideation phase the boot begins to take shape. Utilizing welds for support and flexibility, a lower half gaiter for weather protection and wider eyestay positioning for enhanced forefoot lock.
Support, flexibility and weather protection
THE ULTIMATE FREE RIDE BOOT
FINAL DESIGN
Every detail on the boot tells a story. The lacing system and lower lace lock communicates security and fit. Exposing the heel cup adds support and speaks to additional cushioning. The “X” spine, flex collar and staccato welds allows for a flexible upper and dynamic movements, while the longer
- Safety - 3pt system with molded heel cup, internal harness and wider lace points
- Barrier - Lower gaiter and TPU hot melt protects against snow and moisture in deep powder conditions
- Style - Mapped placement of welds and X-Spine allow for support with flexibility
