– The Backcountry Ski Touring Blog
  • Avalanches
  • Gear Reviews
    • Ski Reviews
    • Boot Reviews
    • Binding Reviews
    • Snowboard Splitboard
    • Book Reviews
    • Avalanche Beacon Reviews
    • Airbag Backpacks
    • Backcountry Electronics
    • Misc Gear Reviews
  • Podcast
  • Tips & Tricks
    • Ski Touring Basics
    • Boot Fitting
    • Fitness & Health
    • Gear Mods
  • Trip Reports
    • Fourteeners
    • Huts – Cabins – Lodges
    • Denali McKinley
    • 8,000 Meter Skiing
  • Stories
    • History
    • Humor
    • Land Use Issues
    • Evergreen Ski Touring
    • Poetry
  • Resources
    • All Posts Listed
    • 100 Recent Comments
    • Backcountry Skiing & Ski Touring Webcams
    • Ski Weights Comparison
    • Archives of WildSnow.com
    • Authors Page
    • Ski Touring Bindings
      • Trab TR2 Index and FAQ
      • Salomon Guardian & Tracker
      • Naxo Backcountry Skiing Bindings – Info Index
      • Silvretta Pure Backcountry Skiing Bindings – Info Index
      • Marker F10-12 Duke Baron
      • G3 Onyx Ski Binding FAQ
      • G3 ION Ski Touring Binding
      • Fritschi Backcountry Skiing Bindings – Info Index
      • Fritschi Diamir Frame Bindings Mount DIY
      • Fritschi Diamir Bindings FAQ
      • Fritschi Tecton FAQ
      • Atomic Salomon Backland MTN
      • Dynafit Tri-Step Binding 2001-2003
      • Naxo randonnee alpine touring AT ski binding FAQ
      • Dynafit Skiing Bindings – Info Index
      • Dynafit Binding Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
      • Dynafit Beast 16 FAQ Review 1
      • Dynafit Beast 16 FAQ Page Two
    • History
      • Ski Touring Binding Museum
      • Trooper Traverse Intro & Index
      • Randonnee Ski Touring “AT” ski gear — What is Hip?
      • Chronology
    • Backcountry Skiing Core Glossary
    • Gear Review Policy & Disclosures

– The Backcountry Ski Touring Blog

Banner
  • Avalanches
  • Gear Reviews
    • Ski Reviews
    • Boot Reviews
    • Binding Reviews
    • Snowboard Splitboard
    • Book Reviews
    • Avalanche Beacon Reviews
    • Airbag Backpacks
    • Backcountry Electronics
    • Misc Gear Reviews
  • Podcast
  • Tips & Tricks
    • Ski Touring Basics
    • Boot Fitting
    • Fitness & Health
    • Gear Mods
  • Trip Reports
    • Fourteeners
    • Huts – Cabins – Lodges
    • Denali McKinley
    • 8,000 Meter Skiing
  • Stories
    • History
    • Humor
    • Land Use Issues
    • Evergreen Ski Touring
    • Poetry
  • Resources
    • All Posts Listed
    • 100 Recent Comments
    • Backcountry Skiing & Ski Touring Webcams
    • Ski Weights Comparison
    • Archives of WildSnow.com
    • Authors Page
    • Ski Touring Bindings
      • Trab TR2 Index and FAQ
      • Salomon Guardian & Tracker
      • Naxo Backcountry Skiing Bindings – Info Index
      • Silvretta Pure Backcountry Skiing Bindings – Info Index
      • Marker F10-12 Duke Baron
      • G3 Onyx Ski Binding FAQ
      • G3 ION Ski Touring Binding
      • Fritschi Backcountry Skiing Bindings – Info Index
      • Fritschi Diamir Frame Bindings Mount DIY
      • Fritschi Diamir Bindings FAQ
      • Fritschi Tecton FAQ
      • Atomic Salomon Backland MTN
      • Dynafit Tri-Step Binding 2001-2003
      • Naxo randonnee alpine touring AT ski binding FAQ
      • Dynafit Skiing Bindings – Info Index
      • Dynafit Binding Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
      • Dynafit Beast 16 FAQ Review 1
      • Dynafit Beast 16 FAQ Page Two
    • History
      • Ski Touring Binding Museum
      • Trooper Traverse Intro & Index
      • Randonnee Ski Touring “AT” ski gear — What is Hip?
      • Chronology
    • Backcountry Skiing Core Glossary
    • Gear Review Policy & Disclosures
   

Hoji Free Ski Touring Boot is Real

by Lou Dawson February 6, 2019
written by Lou Dawson February 6, 2019

This post sponsored by our publishing partner Cripple Creek Backcountry.

We did experience the Hoji Free at a press event a few weeks ago — and I was privy to much in the way of the development process thanks to industry insiders. It is a beautiful boot. Lots of questions from you so I’ll file a “first look” (once I get over my gear blogger hyper ventilation and clean my keyboard). Next review you’ll see will be from a few months testing.

Salient points: Same overall construction as Hoji Pro but “20 %” stiffer and a narrower last though we need to verify that with actual measurements and sources. I’m told Dynafit is still working on the retail liner. I’m optimistic about that, as word is they’re attempting to up the liner game, not simply imitate Intuition. Not that imitating Intuition is a bad thing, but it’s high time that ski touring boot liners received the kind of attention shells have been getting for the past few years. One other thing: this boot is truly a “quiver of one.” Use it as an alpine boot in the appropriate binding, and tour with it, you will be happy.

Dynafit Hoji Free, available fall 2019, stiffer, with same systems as Hoji Pro.

Dynafit Hoji Free, available fall 2019, stiffer, with same systems as Hoji Pro.

The Dynafit Hoji press release is good, following is a condensed version with commentary in double parenthesis.

DYNAFIT HOJI FREE SKI TOURING BOOT
THE REVOLUTION CONTINUES: SKI HARD – WALK EASY ((Pants Down — Always!))

The Hoji Pro Tour ski touring boot has gained a sibling: DYNAFIT for winter 2019-20 is launching the Hoji Free – a ski touring boot that will take free touring to a new level. With its increased rigidity, a narrower fit and the customizable Hoji Free Liner from boot-fitting specialist Sidas, the Hoji Free will be the first choice for ski touring enthusiasts who focus in particular on first-class downhill performance. Powder hounds won’t forgo uphill comfort and freedom of movement, however. The boot is compatible with alpine ski bindings, in accordance with DIN ISO 9523 and therefore especially versatile ((meaning by by Speed Nose)). Thanks to the Hoji Lock System, cuff and shell are integrated into one cohesive unit. Using a cable system ((which doesn’t break)), the ski/walk system’s mechanism is integrated with the buckles and the Ultra Lock Strap. Just one quick hand motion saves mucking around, and the boot transforms from an efficient, lightweight climber into a powder specialist with the sensation of high-end skiing and optimum power transfer. ((This “one motion” system works for nearly anyone who takes the time to learn it, but it’s not intuitive. Where I love it most is for short tours with lots of walking to/from restaurant or parking. Just reach down and pull the rear lever, and bam you’re in total walk-tour mode.))

With its increased rigidity ((said to be 20%, possibly too beefy for some skiers, if so use Hoji Pro)), thanks to a unique Grilamid material with fiberglass, and its progressive flex of 130, the Hoji Free possesses all of the characteristics to deliver the best power transfer and top downhill performance. With a last width of 102 mm, three micro-adjustable buckles and the Ultra Lock Strap, the foot sits ideally positioned ((last might actually be narrower than 102, I’m checking)). In downhill mode, the Hoji Free locks out at a forward lean of 11 or 17 degrees thanks to a spoiler at the cuff that can be taken on and off. On the ascent, free tourers also get extra benefits: The V-shaped tongue and a cuff rotation of 55 degrees means maximum freedom of movement, flexibility and comfort. Weight 1,550 grams.

Hoji Free comes equipped with the POMOCA Free Sole. This sole has impressive grip and optimal hold when walking out of the binding and at the same time is especially sturdy and long-lasting. Thanks to the toe lug the ski touring boot is compatible with fully automatic crampons. Last but not least, the Hoji Free is also equipped with the proven Quick Step-In insert for easier entry into the frameless tech binding even on rougher terrain ((also, the excellent Master Step fitting at the heel)). The Hoji Free, just like other models in the Hoji family, is made completely in Italy. Sizes: 25-29.5 — MSRP: 750 Euro ((only available in unisex version, Grilamid — fine by us))

12 comments
0
FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
previous post
The Little Goggins On My Shoulder
next post
Black Diamond 2019-2020 Airbag Backpack Comparo

12 comments

David Max February 6, 2019 - 2:59 pm

Outside of last measurements can you comment a bit on the fit differences between the Pro Tour and the Free?

The Pro Tour was never an option for me because I’m using Shifts and Tectons on my skis, but aside from the speed nose the fit wouldn’t have worked for me either. I have quite a low volume foot, particularly around my navicular bone and forefoot and the Free felt too spacious to offer good stability for me. I’ve heard that Dynafit has decreased the volume over the forefoot by 3mm and I’m hopeful that that change and the new liner may make this boot an option for me…

DJ February 6, 2019 - 3:39 pm

Bye bye and sweet dreams dumb speed nose, we hardly knew ya!

XXX_er February 6, 2019 - 9:16 pm

I predict Dynafit will sell a lot of the FREE,

probably more free than pro

I would buy it but I need a 24 and the free only goes down to 25

so this boot won’t work for me

still I think this is a much better effort from Dynafit

now all they need to do is fire that speed nose guy

Frame February 7, 2019 - 6:54 am

i’m at the other end of the scale XXX, this big foot needs a 30.5

Maciej February 7, 2019 - 11:20 am

I have a wide enough foot that the recent Dynafit last works great, but I’m interested in this boot just because it has a normal toe welt so I can run automatic crampons!

It doesn’t need to work on anything but a tech interface, but I wish Dynafit would put at least a notch that would allow for the security of an automatic crampon on all their boots.

KS February 8, 2019 - 6:27 pm

Will the Hoji Free have any sort of early release this season like the Hoji did?

Pablo March 4, 2019 - 10:41 am

Lou, do you think it’s posible to grind Hoji’s Speed noses to fit an automatic crampon?
Just making a slit to insert the crampon bail.

Thanks in advance,
Pablo

Håkan MacLean March 5, 2019 - 3:09 pm

Does it have the same hole under foot to fit the new dynafit “cramp in” cramp ons?

Herb Jones March 22, 2019 - 3:23 pm

Hi Lou,

I looked at the Hoji Pro earlier this year, but did not like the WIDE heel fit. Also, the ramp angle is 5 degrees, way too much, but may be possible to shim due to vertical room up front. Are there any changes to heel width and vertical room and are they molding the sole to allow for low delta bindings which are becoming more common these days? (Molding the toe to eliminate interference with the toe wings when the heel sits lower when skinning)? Tecnica did this for the Tour series, I have the Scout, Atomic did not for the Hawx.

11 or 17 degrees?? Thats a huge jump. I found the Pro too upright, but easily padded to adjust. When too vertical it is difficult to get weight over the front of the cuff and bend/flex the boot. Adjusting the angle made for a nice flex for my use.

Looking forward to the report, thanks.
Herb

Lou Dawson 2 March 22, 2019 - 4:34 pm

I’ve been using the Hoji Pro all winter, am working on a report, I’ll try to address your questions. Thanks for chiming in. I can tell you right now that for me, the heel width is tight. Lou

Mitch September 3, 2019 - 11:30 am

Any update to the Hoji Free experiences? Mostly looking for experiences regarding fit…

William Gardiner September 16, 2019 - 2:27 pm

Any thoughts as to the limited size range – 30 is not THAT big. US 11.5 seems to limit a lot of the US and I would think European market. I’ve waited for this boot, but alas.

Comments are closed.

Recent Comments

  • Jon Canuck on Meidjo 3.0 Binding Review – Backcountry Telemark Evolves
  • Joe Sedy on Giving Myself the Gift of Backcountry
  • Bil Brandt on Versatile and Sustainable — WNDR Vital 100 Ski Review
  • Idaho Dawg on Giving Myself the Gift of Backcountry
  • Mike on Versatile and Sustainable — WNDR Vital 100 Ski Review

Gear Reviews

  • Meidjo 3.0 Binding Review – Backcountry Telemark Evolves

    January 12, 2021
  • Tele Tech First Look — Voile Ultra Vector BC, 22 Designs Lynx, Scarpa TX Pro

    January 5, 2021
  • Petzl Irvis Hybrid Crampon Review

    January 4, 2021

Trip Reports

  • Finding Early Turns on Rainier’s Muir Snowfield

    November 14, 2020
  • Treading Lightly Through Close-to-Home Mountains

    October 6, 2020
  • Snoqualmie Classic — Chair Peak Circumnavigation

    May 26, 2020

Totally Deep Podcast

  • Risky Business — Zahan Billimoria on Solving for Z

    December 14, 2020
  • Totally Deep Podcast 81 — CAIC Director Ethan Greene

    December 9, 2020
  • Unraveling the Mysteries of Avalanche Education — Totally Deep Podcast 80

    November 16, 2020

Tips & Tricks

  • 10 Essential Mistakes for the Backcountry Ski Touring Beginner

    December 2, 2020
  • Buying Used Gear Guide Part II — Poles, Avy Gear, Packs

    November 25, 2020
  • Save Your Ski Day — Emergency Car Kit Essentials

    November 24, 2020

Ski Touring Stories

  • Six Who Dared — Elk Mountains Traverse & Richard Compton Tribute

    January 7, 2021
  • Risky Business — Zahan Billimoria on Solving for Z

    December 14, 2020
  • A Lifetime of Skiing the Heights — Natural Progression Book Review

    December 11, 2020

Newsletter Sign-Up

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • About Lou Dawson
  • Authors Page
  • About
  • Contact
  • Copyright & Legal
  • Website Security

@2020 - All Rights Reserved. Designed and Developed by WildSnow


Back To Top

Read alsox

Versatile and Sustainable — WNDR Vital...

January 14, 2021

Meidjo 3.0 Binding Review – Backcountry...

January 12, 2021

Tele Tech First Look — Voile...

January 5, 2021