Black Diamond Shiva MX 110 Review
March 8, 2014
89 The Good
- Mx Direct Technology creates unmatched lateral stiffness
- Walk mode eats up climbs thanks to cuff range and zero resistance
- 100-mm last balances performance fit and uphill comfort
- Excellent women’s-specific fit in the heel and calf
- A precision tool for aggressive, high-speed skiing
The Bad
- Heavier weight saps leg strength on long tours
- Alpine soles felt slick on packed snow and ice
- Cold temps make boot entry a burly task
Black Diamond makes an impressive entry in the freeride touring category with the Shiva Mx. It’s a beefy, take-no-prisoners boot substantially increases the comfort margin when touring for big mountain terrain. But hit the gym before long tours—this is a hefty boot to haul up a mountainside.
New Horizons
Black Diamond established itself as built for the ascent. The Shiva (and the Factor Mx, its unisex counterpart) marks a new commitment to the down. But this boot is no naïve rookie—the Shiva outperforms many boots in the freeride/AT category on the up, and particularly shines on the down.
Versatility, Defined
We like the amorphous “freeride” category because these products offer all the backcountry-specific functions without losing resort utility. That’s especially true with the Shive. Swappable soles; a stalwart tour mode; and best lateral stiffness in our head-to-head test makes it a true MVP when you’re confined to the resort, and even more so in the backcountry.
Pile on the Miles
Sturdy construction, like the low-profile buckles and lightweight Triax plastic for consistent flex, promises these boots will stand up to on-snow abuse. If you need a versatile boot that can handle a few seasons of wear at the resort, on the bootpack, and in the backcountry, this is a solid investment.
No reviews have been posted for this product.
