faq

The basic design and fit of phaenom boots is unisex. However, phaenom makes models which serve the different physiological needs that are typical to women and men in three particular ways, which will be shared here. There are statistical predispositions, even if there are always exceptions. phaenom offers boot models that address these dispositions regardless of gender.

The most notable difference is the size range, where 25 - 26 is the highest overlap of men’s and women’s feet and therefore is the peak of the “distribution curve” for all ski boots sold and worn. This is why phaenom and most ski boot manufacturers start there. For the global launch in autumn 2024, with sizes 23/.5 - 26/.5 phaenom will cover most women’s sizing needs. There will also be a size 22/.5 brought to market for autumn 2026.

The second typical difference for women’s boots is the liner thickness. phaenom offer a 3mm-thicker liner around the forefoot to reduce the volume inside the boot. Models which will more often suit women will feature the thicker liner, and keep in mind there are many males who require this version as well.

Finally, women prefer different flex ratings so phaenom offers a range. When considering the boot sizes associated with most women’s feet, the freeride (fr) models are available in 120 and 100, and the freestyle (fs) models in 110 and 90.

If you have yet to purchase a product, it is encouraged that you browse the size guide to minimize the likelihood of making a return. If a return is needed, once you have received the boot you will have 14 days to return your product. To return the boots, simply visit phaenom's return page.

Every part of the outer boot is designed to be repairable and/or recyclable. This diverges from most current practice, primarily due to the common use of composites in most boots, as well as rivets which make disassembly for recycling more difficult. phaenom is working on improving the circularity of the liner as well. For now, 50% of the liner is made from bio-based materials.

The answer to your question is no. (And yes.) phaenom soles are built according to ISO standard 23223, which is the same as the GripWalk sole. The ISO standard 23223 makes it easier to walk without affecting the function of the alpine ski bindings. Opting for this ISO standard is not a decision phaenom took, this has been dictated by the market and phaenom is adapting to the needs of customers today. The entire market is transitioning to “ISO 23223 - alpine ski boots with improved walking soles.”

The Freeride (fr) boot, which has the same design as the Freestyle (fs) boot, is touring compatible. The full rage of fr boots will be released next season, in a full size range.

The design, liners and last are the same. The primary difference is the walk mechanism and the toe and heel tech inserts for touring binding compatibility. The fr boots also come in different flexes.

All parts on the boot are replaceable. phaenom has a stock of replacement parts including, but not limited to, buckles, cuffs, tongues, soles, spacers and straps that can be sent on request. Some geographic restrictions apply.

Here is the list what you will receive in the box:

• One pair of phaenom ski boots
• One pair of boot liners, packaged inside of the boot shells
• One pair of laces for the liners (lacing is optional)
• Two pairs of volume reducers (to be placed under inner sole)
• Flip chips to adjust forward lean 13°/15°/17° (comes with the fs boots only)

The answer to your question is yes. There are many ways to customize your phaenom boot:

1. The outer shell may be adjusted with heat or grinding to better accommodate the shape of the foot. It is highly recommended to see a ski boot specialist for this type of adjustment.To achieve the best fit, follow phaenom's recommended temperature guidelines. Heat the shells for 10-15 minutes at a maximum temperature of 120°C (248°F).
2. The shim in the calf area may be moved up and down or removed.
3. The forward angle of the boot may be adjusted in three different positions.
4. The liner may be heated up so that it conforms to the shape of the foot. To achieve the best fit, follow phaenom's recommended temperature guidelines. Heat the the liners for 4-5 minutes at a maximum temperature of 80°C (176°F). However, this is not necessary to be able to ski the boot. The liner is ready to ski in as soon as you receive it.
5. The footbed may be further molded by a certified boot-fitter. However, this is not necessary to use the footbed. It’s ready to ski as soon as you receive the boot.

The answer to your question is yes. However, for all phaenom boots the inner boot-board is integrated with the liner. If you remove the liner you need to add the boot-board. You can request and order a boot-board from phaenom's customer service team.

phaenom does not use the BOA system for a couple of reasons:

Along with a beautiful and clean aesthetic, phaenom wanted to make the boots easily recyclable and repairable. A buckle is much easier to repair than a BOA system is. If the BOA system breaks, repairing it requires mailing the boot away. With phaenom buckles, you may easily repair a damaged or broken buckle at home in minutes. phaenom buckles are also highly resistant to wear and tear. The BOA system is designed principally as a means to adjust the tightness of an overlap boot. With a 3-piece cabrio design the overlap is different, and less pressure is exerted on the top of the foot. The buckle system is highly efficient for adjusting fit.

For a long time, the community faced issues with outdated boot designs and complicated buckle handling. phaenom eliminated unnecessary elements to ensure simplicity. phaenom's oversized buckles are engineered for durability and ease of use. With the phaenom strap phaenom addressed the problems of flex control, rebound, and shock absorption. This was crafted from a single recyclable material to minimize environmental impact.

The strap's elasticity enhances rebound through turns, improving power transmission, turn initiation precision, comfort, and predictability. The wider front shape provides additional support, replacing the need for a third buckle on the cuff.

By addressing the specific needs of freestyle and all-mountain skiers in the fs collection and backcountry skiers in the fr ski boots family, phaenom has focused on performance on the downhill, comfort, ease of use, and the repairability and recyclability of its products. The fs collection is designed for freeskiers who crave high-performance equipment that delivers precision and control for all-mountain riding – skiers who seek out jumps and features. The fr boots are designed for off-piste explorers who value agility, comfort and shock absorption, and value a boot that will accompany them on brief itineraries with a touring binding and a built-in walk mode.