Test report | Black Diamond Factor 130

For winter 2011/12, a revised version of the tried-and-tested Factor ski boot was released, with particular improvements to the liner and the addition of 130 to the product name. The new inner boot should offer more warmth, more comfort and an even better fit than its predecessor model.

Test report | Black Diamond Factor 130

Practical use will show whether these requirements have been met. I'm particularly excited about the fit, as the previous model was already very tight-fitting. Cold has never been a problem for me so far. For me, the previous model was a very reliable ski boot both in the slackcountry with short hikes and on longer ascents to enjoy descents in the backcountry.

The first impression of the new Factor 130

After unpacking it from the box, the first impression is of the changed design - even more black. The adjustment options such as the forward tilt angle, side angle and the adjustment of the buckles as well as the relocation of the notches for the buckles are as usual and easy to use.

Once the liner with the integrated BOA system has been removed, many new features are clearly visible. The larger strap on the liner makes it much easier to pull out. It is noticeable that plastic reinforcements have been incorporated in some exposed areas. Another change is the screw-in footbed, which is presumably intended to prevent the sole from breaking. Personally, this happened to me twice with the previous model. The replacement was always carried out at the retailer without any problems.

The notable new features of the inner shoe are:

- Zones for better walking comfort and softer flexion in the joint

- Metal foil in the inner shoe construction for a reflective thermal protective barrier

- Toe box construction with tape-sealed seams for maximum toe warmth

- Plastic tongue on the inner shoe distributes pressure evenly for a balanced footprint

The new Factor 130 in practice

New Factor liner designed to eliminate the weak points of the previous model

If you already own a Factor, you probably know the initial pressure pain. These accompanied me for the first 5 days until I found the fine tuning of the buckles for the shoes. The fit of the shoe has not changed noticeably. For me, the first use was a déjà vu. The four buckles, the powerstrap and the BOA system mean that the fit is becoming more and more harmonious. Getting in and out of the boot works smoothly and the larger straps are helpful. The inner shoe can be easily removed or inserted without having it on the foot. As before, the BOA system is tightened using a twist lock. The channels for the pull cords have been reinforced. On the negative side, I noticed that even after this short period of use, and on both inner shoes, the reinforcement on one side of the instep was torn (see gallery image).

The walking mechanism can be activated or deactivated as usual by moving the lever, and the template can be adjusted in three stages by moving it. After a strenuous day's skiing, I have to remove the inner boot to dry it, as with the previous model. The new plastic tongue on the inner boot provides more stability and better pressure transfer via the shins to the skis. The new boot is noticeably harder than my old Factor after approx. 120 days. I can't say at the moment whether the new Factor 130 loses its hardness to the same extent. One day it was around -10°C. At these temperatures it was noticeably cold in the boots. However, this was quickly forgotten when powder skiing.

In terms of handling, I can't see any difference to the previous model. It behaves perfectly on the piste and off-piste. It is a top ski boot for downhill-oriented freeriders who are also prepared to tackle longer ascents of over 1,000 vertical meters. Although the two-piece, hard shell offers the strength of an alpine boot, you have to carry more weight with you on tours. In addition, such a construction does not offer the comfort and running comfort of a classic (softer) touring boot.

Conclusion

Black Diamond has incorporated the experience gained from the first generation into the new model. The most obvious innovations are in the liner. In practice, however, these innovations have by no means produced a "wow" effect, here only product care has been carried out in detail, without touching the proven concept of the old Factor.

If you are looking for an ascent-oriented (comfortable) touring boot, the Factor 130 is certainly the wrong choice, but if you are looking for an all-rounder that offers downhill control and allows longer ascents, then the BD Factor 130 is still a very good compromise for me and absolutely recommendable.