DC Travis Rice Snowboard Boots review
Review Date: November 2016 to March 2017
Boots Tested: DC Snowboarding Travis Rice boot (size 12)
Rider specs: 6’0″ shoe size: 11
Intended Use: Snowboarding, snow sports
DC Travis Rice Snowboard Boots specs:
Built Travis-tough with exclusive DC technologies, the Rice boot features a performance-focused, asymmetrical design constructed with premium materials, Asymmetrical Outsole technology, and unique Storm Flap. – DC Snowboarding
- Boa® focus closure system with H3 coiler reel
- Asymmetrical anti-drag outsole
- Black SE liner
- Impact-S insole™
- Internal ankle harness
- Articulated construction
- Aerotech ventilation system
- Storm flap
- Superfabric
- Boa® Black laces
- Flex rating 9/10
- Composition: Upper: Synthetic / Lining: Textile / Outsole: Eva
Review:
I’ve always been a fan of DC Shoes apparel, snowboarding jackets, shoes — the works — and an even bigger fan of Travis Rice. Travis rides some of the gnarliest lines in the business, and dishes out some serious punishment to his gear. I was excited to test his signature boot in as many conditions as possible.
The Rice boots come with a double-Boa closure system. The double-Boa closure system allows you to independently tighten the upper and lower zones of the boots. I really like this system because I like my boot to be looser on my shin, but don’t want my heel moving around. I’ve never been a huge fan of the Boa system; I’ve spent too many hours waiting for riding buddies to replace snapped lines. The Rice boot, however, uses a stainless steel lace that has proven to be tough as nails. DC developed the laces with input from Travis; the tech prevents corrosion, breakdown and breakage. They’ve also incorporated a zippered storm flap to protect the laces from icing up during hikes. I tested this several times hiking Mary’s at Grand Targhee Resort, and I found it a little difficult to zip up while the boot is on, but with the boots off, the zipper moves very freely. When I just left them zipped up, as I felt it offered a little bit of protection to the lower Boa lace.
The outer boot is composed of rubber and Superfabric. The Superfabric is a textile that was developed for industrial and military use. This stuff is virtually indestructible and provides maximum protection. I’ve put 30+ days on these boots and they still look new.
The DC Travis Rice Boa Snowboard Boot is stiff but has a very responsive flex. The asymmetric articulating cuff gives ample support on the lateral side, with a bit more flex along the medial side. This really allows you to add some steez to tweaked airs, or lay down some euro carves.
The inside of the boot provides comfort and tech to keep your feet comfortable and cramp free. The black SE liner snugs up nicely and is heat moldable. Over time, the foam really conformed to the shape of my foot without heat molding. One of the most important features for me is the cushioning. My old knees and feet cannot take much of a beating anymore, and the Rice boot has great cushioning provided by the Impact S footbed. Designed to handle huge airs that Travis lays down, these will handle anything you can dole out. I hit jumps, rails, cliff drops and choppy terrain…never once did my feet bark at me. The Asymmetrical Anti-Drag sole is another important feature, especially for riders like me with a large foot. DC shaved off key areas along the toe and heel to prevent dreaded drag. The sole is tied together with Unilite foam to keep weight down and provide excellent traction. New to the DC Travis Rice Boot in 2017 are traction beads in the footbed. You’ll find them in heel and toe area; they feel pretty strange and I suppose they are supposed to massage your feet.
The DC Snowboarding Travis Rice boots always kept my feet warm, even on a -35 day. The Aerotech ventilation system is designed to dump foot sweat/moisture to keep you feet dry and comfortable. This was really nice on warm spring days.
Summary:
These boots really remind me of a comfy pair of DC skate shoes. They handled everything with ease, and are durable and comfortable. I normally wear an 11 but these ran a little small; the 12 fit me just right. The DC Snowboarding Travis Rice boot is an amazing blend of support, comfort, and responsiveness. Loaded with tech and built to last, I highly recommend these boots.
Pros:
- responsive
- flex where you need it
- durability/construction
- comfort
- cushioning
- lightweight
- style
Cons:
- cost
- only one color combo
| Style: |  (4.8 / 5) |
| Comfort: | (4.8 / 5) |
| Performance: | (4.8 / 5) |
| Cost: |  (4.0 / 5) |
| Overall: |  (4.6 / 5) |