Dynafit Hoji Free 130 Boot
For the hard charging skier who regularly ventures into the sidecountry and the backcountry, the fine folks down at Dynafit have for you the Hoji Free, a quiver-of-one freeride touring boot that is compatible with both tech and some alpine bindings. If you plan to spend most of your time skiing out of backcountry trailheads, we recommend you either hit that preseason training program especially hard and develop some serious stamina, or maybe consider one of our purely backcountry touring boots, found here. However, for folks who ride the chairlift as often as they hit the skin track, the Hoji Free is hands down one of the best options out there. With a wide range of motion and flexible v-shaped tongue, you'll be outpacing all your pals who are wearing true alpine boots with "walk" modes, while you zip along out front. On the descent, the 130 flex index rating of the Hoji Free feels indistinguishable from an alpine boot, where three buckles and a stout power strap offer all the security you need to ski as hard as you can. Fully moldable liner ensures that even the pickiest of feet can be made to feel great in these boots after a quick visit to the shop.
- Unique to the Hoji line is the Hoji Lock, a ski/walk lever system which adds tension to the upper strap and buckle when in ski mode, while removing that tension in walk mode.
- UN EN ISO 9523 compatible, meaning that this boot works with tech bindings as well as touring frame bindings and alpine bindings with adjustable toe height.
- Quick Step In means that precarious transitions are simpler and easier for you to get through without getting too puckered.
- Full size toe and heel welts means you can use automatic crampons for booting up icy couloirs.
- Fully moldable Sidas liner offer you all the customizable potential you could possibly want.
- Pomoca sole will stand up to years of parking lot abuse and rocky scrambling.
- Made in Italy.
Update 2020/21: The boot was renamed the Hoji Free 130 (to differentiate from the 110) and is now available up to size 31.0.
| Specifications | |
|
Weight |
1654g [27.5] |
| Weight (pair) | 3308g [27.5] |
|
|
Hoji Lock. 3 buckles + Power Strap |
|
Boot Sole |
290mm [25.0/25.5] 300mm [26.0/26.5] 310mm [27.0/27.5] 320mm [28.0/28.5] 330mm [29.0/29.5] 340mm [30.0/30.5] 350mm [31.0/31.5] |
|
Binding |
Tech, Hybrid, ISO 9523 |
|
Cuff |
55° |
|
Forward |
17°, 11° with spoiler removed |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Grilamid loaded with glass fibers |
|
|
SIDAS |
|
|
Formula Pomoca Climb (ISO 9523) |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Free touring and anything else you are a afraid to do in lighter boots |
| Notes | A Hoji boot with a tighter fit. And a toe for use with any crampon and alpine binding |
| Bottom Line | The new Free touring standard |
| Compare to other Freeride Boots | |
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Questions & Reviews
3/24/2024
Is this boot sole compatible with Marker M3 Quikclik bindings please?
3/25/2024
Hi Andrew, likely not. That binding looks like it is GripWalk compatible, but these boots require MNC (Multi-Norm Certified) bindings.
Answer this question:
I've used these boots for the past three seasons for probably 150+ days total - about a 50/50 split between resort days and backcountry. 6'3", 200lbs, aggressive skier.
These are as advertised and have been great for me. I've noticed the stock liners are starting to wear through at the ankles after 150 days. Pomoca soles show wear, but still in good shape after plenty of rock scrambling. All buckles/mechanisms/seals are still in good working order. I originally purchased these during covid when it was incredibly difficult to find a beefy touring boot in my size (29.5) locally - they don't fit perfectly, but have had some punches/molding to make them work. Considering new liners to keep these things going longer.
Pros:
Stiff - true 130 flex
3 piece - allows more progressive flex, easier walking, great 2nd ratchet buckle placement, easier to put on/off
55 degrees of cuff rotation
Hoji lock - may seem gimmicky at first glance, but is likely the best walk-mode on the market
Cons:
Heavier
Strange fit
Boot toe and heal lugs wear quickly initially from my resort bindings
Setups:
186cm Nordica Enforcer 104 frees w/ Warden MNC 13
191cm WNDR Alpine Vital 100 w/ ATK Freeraider 14
These are as advertised and have been great for me. I've noticed the stock liners are starting to wear through at the ankles after 150 days. Pomoca soles show wear, but still in good shape after plenty of rock scrambling. All buckles/mechanisms/seals are still in good working order. I originally purchased these during covid when it was incredibly difficult to find a beefy touring boot in my size (29.5) locally - they don't fit perfectly, but have had some punches/molding to make them work. Considering new liners to keep these things going longer.
Pros:
Stiff - true 130 flex
3 piece - allows more progressive flex, easier walking, great 2nd ratchet buckle placement, easier to put on/off
55 degrees of cuff rotation
Hoji lock - may seem gimmicky at first glance, but is likely the best walk-mode on the market
Cons:
Heavier
Strange fit
Boot toe and heal lugs wear quickly initially from my resort bindings
Setups:
186cm Nordica Enforcer 104 frees w/ Warden MNC 13
191cm WNDR Alpine Vital 100 w/ ATK Freeraider 14
Comment on this review:
3/5/2024
is size 25 is the same as 25.5 ? in some other site there is only 25.5 available .
Are they the same ?
Are they the same ?
3/5/2024
Hi Junshu, yes those are the same shell size and functionally the same. Just a different thickness footbed included.
Answer this question:
12/8/2023
I just tried these out today for the first time. Did pretty good, but that forward lean is pretty intense to the point that I didn’t even feel like I could predictably tell where I was over my bindings until my third lap. Do I understand correctly that the forward lean can be reduced in these? Any device on removing the spoiler? Thanks!
12/8/2023
Joe,
Yep, you can reduce the forward lean by removing the spoiler. Drill or punch the rivets out, remove the spoiler, then you'll need a bolt and washer or large rivet to re-attach the power strap.
Yep, you can reduce the forward lean by removing the spoiler. Drill or punch the rivets out, remove the spoiler, then you'll need a bolt and washer or large rivet to re-attach the power strap.
Answer this question:
9/25/2023
So confused with ISO ratings and biding compatibility. Will these work with look pivots? If not, would would you recommend for a resort / alpine binding?
Thanks
Much love
Thanks
Much love
9/25/2023
Gregory, Technically they will work with a Look with GW in the name.. Gripwalk compatible.
A Tech boot that is either GW or MNC compatible would be better/safer. Something like Tigard.
Of Course Fit is all important. If you want to go over that, please contact us at help@skimo.co
A Tech boot that is either GW or MNC compatible would be better/safer. Something like Tigard.
Of Course Fit is all important. If you want to go over that, please contact us at help@skimo.co
Answer this question:
The Hoji has been my only touring boot for the last two seasons, so I have a decent amount of experience in it. Paired with the Black Crows Navis Freebird in 179cm length, and I'm 5'10 and 145 lbs. Aggressive skier.
Fit:
The fit of the Hoji is interesting. It's relatively low volume in terms of the instep and height of the toe box, but the toe box is roomy laterally, which works for me. The overall fit of the front of the boot is great for my low volume, narrower feet with medium instep height and more square toe box. The heel pocket is roomy relative to the rest of the boot. I don't get blisters, but I do wish that it were more precise for my lower-volume heels. The ankle initially caused me some discomfort when flexing forward in the boot in walk mode, but I was able to widen it fairly easily with a heat gun and some clamps. Hoji himself has a video on YouTube covering this modification as it is a common problem and an easy fix. My ankles still get a little sore after a big day (over 5000 feet of gain), but not terrible.
Uphill performance:
The Hoji lock is excellent and the boot has a great range of motion uphill. It has enough forward ROM for me to tour without heel risers most of the time, even if the person setting the track had a little too much coffee that morning. Transitions are easy with the Hoji lock and ratcheting instep buckle, noticeably faster than my partners with four-buckle boots. I have never had issues with the lock mechanism icing or failing in any way. The biggest downside to this boot on the uphill is its weight, which is substantial and does take a toll on bigger days. But if you're considering this boot you already know that.
Downhill performance:
This is the good part and the whole reason to buy the Hoji. This boot has a forward flex profile and stiffness that is almost identical to my Technica Mach1 LV 130 resort boots. It is *very* stiff and the lockup between the cuff and the lower is extremely solid, to the point where you can't really tell that there is a lock mechanism in there.
That said, I can still tell that the Hoji isn't a resort boot when it comes to bad/variable snow. Mostly due to its lower weight and the thinner, stiffer grilamid material, it transmits more vibration and feeling than a big heavy plastic resort boot. But it still skis just as strong and I would happily drive full-size freeride skis with the Hoji, like my 184cm Atris for example.
My final note on the Hoji is that it has quite an aggressive forward lean, around 17 degrees. This is more than my Mach1s and more than most touring boots. I've come to enjoy it when skiing fast and aggressively, but it does get tiring on long skin-track descents at the end of the day. Not a dealbreaker for me, but if you like a more upright boot, the Hoji may not be for you.
Fit:
The fit of the Hoji is interesting. It's relatively low volume in terms of the instep and height of the toe box, but the toe box is roomy laterally, which works for me. The overall fit of the front of the boot is great for my low volume, narrower feet with medium instep height and more square toe box. The heel pocket is roomy relative to the rest of the boot. I don't get blisters, but I do wish that it were more precise for my lower-volume heels. The ankle initially caused me some discomfort when flexing forward in the boot in walk mode, but I was able to widen it fairly easily with a heat gun and some clamps. Hoji himself has a video on YouTube covering this modification as it is a common problem and an easy fix. My ankles still get a little sore after a big day (over 5000 feet of gain), but not terrible.
Uphill performance:
The Hoji lock is excellent and the boot has a great range of motion uphill. It has enough forward ROM for me to tour without heel risers most of the time, even if the person setting the track had a little too much coffee that morning. Transitions are easy with the Hoji lock and ratcheting instep buckle, noticeably faster than my partners with four-buckle boots. I have never had issues with the lock mechanism icing or failing in any way. The biggest downside to this boot on the uphill is its weight, which is substantial and does take a toll on bigger days. But if you're considering this boot you already know that.
Downhill performance:
This is the good part and the whole reason to buy the Hoji. This boot has a forward flex profile and stiffness that is almost identical to my Technica Mach1 LV 130 resort boots. It is *very* stiff and the lockup between the cuff and the lower is extremely solid, to the point where you can't really tell that there is a lock mechanism in there.
That said, I can still tell that the Hoji isn't a resort boot when it comes to bad/variable snow. Mostly due to its lower weight and the thinner, stiffer grilamid material, it transmits more vibration and feeling than a big heavy plastic resort boot. But it still skis just as strong and I would happily drive full-size freeride skis with the Hoji, like my 184cm Atris for example.
My final note on the Hoji is that it has quite an aggressive forward lean, around 17 degrees. This is more than my Mach1s and more than most touring boots. I've come to enjoy it when skiing fast and aggressively, but it does get tiring on long skin-track descents at the end of the day. Not a dealbreaker for me, but if you like a more upright boot, the Hoji may not be for you.
Comment on this review:
4/2/2023
What is the bsl of the 30.5 option?
4/2/2023
Hi Sean, those are 340mm, I've updated the chart.
Answer this question:
1/4/2023
Are the materials used in this boot suitable for doing a width stretch at the front?
1/4/2023
Koen,
Yes, this boot can be stretched and punched!
Yes, this boot can be stretched and punched!
Answer this question:
12/6/2022
Hi..I have a pair of Hoji free 130 (love them) but I have a crack in the shell tongue at the middle buckle. Can I find a replacement tongue somewhere?
Thanks, Tom
Thanks, Tom
12/6/2022
Hi Thomas, yes we do stock Hoji Tongues.
Answer this question:
12/5/2022
How well do these walk/climb compared to the Zero G Pro?
12/5/2022
Hi Steve, generally the Hoji walk system is one of the best in the category. With the relatively beefy liner in the Free, I would say they are rather comparable to the Zero Gs, maybe a touch more resistance.
Answer this question:
10/28/2022
Is the Hoji Free compatible with Look Pivot 15 GW binding?
10/28/2022
Hi Dan,
The Dynafit Hoji Free 130 has an ISO 9523 sole. It is compatible with Tech, MNC, and Hybrid bindings. Unfortunately, it is not compatible with Grip Walk bindings like the Look Pivot 15 GW.
The Dynafit Hoji Free 130 has an ISO 9523 sole. It is compatible with Tech, MNC, and Hybrid bindings. Unfortunately, it is not compatible with Grip Walk bindings like the Look Pivot 15 GW.
Answer this question:
9/4/2022
Hey guys,
I'm really impressed with this boot, but slightly frustrated by the ankle ratchet buckle, which is impossible to keep closed when bootpacking due to its location on side of boot, and is easily iced up in the same bootpacking scenario.
Have you seen any mods which locate the buckle up onto the top of the boot, so it's out of the way when booting?
Cheers,
Tom.
I'm really impressed with this boot, but slightly frustrated by the ankle ratchet buckle, which is impossible to keep closed when bootpacking due to its location on side of boot, and is easily iced up in the same bootpacking scenario.
Have you seen any mods which locate the buckle up onto the top of the boot, so it's out of the way when booting?
Cheers,
Tom.
9/5/2022
Hey Tom, we are not aware of any modification for that strap. If you keep that buckle loose that could be the culprit. If that buckle is not tight it will not have enough tension to keep it closed. If the buckle is
tight and still experiencing the same issue then I would see if it is damaged or just overused. We do sell new Hoji buckles here. If you need any further assistance reach out to help@skimo.co and we can try to dial you in further.
tight and still experiencing the same issue then I would see if it is damaged or just overused. We do sell new Hoji buckles here. If you need any further assistance reach out to help@skimo.co and we can try to dial you in further.
Answer this question:
11/26/2020
I've heard the sizing and fir of the Free is slightly larger than Dynafit boots of the past, like Vulcans and TLT6s. If I wore a 28 in TLT6s and Vulcans (as I recall), should I order 27.5s in the Hoji Free??
Thanks
Thanks
11/27/2020
Hey Chachi!
Thanks for the question! I recommend emailing us at help@skimo.co or filling out the boot fitter form. That'll allow us to give you a bit more of an accurate answer!
Thanks for the question! I recommend emailing us at help@skimo.co or filling out the boot fitter form. That'll allow us to give you a bit more of an accurate answer!
Answer this question:
6/1/2020
Keith
(used product a few times)
Thought I’d give you quick feedback on Hoji Free v Lange XT LV Free Promodel since you don’t carry the Lange and there is some comparison to be made.
It was obviously pretty warm here end of season so that obviously impacts things v cold weather, but I’d just had the Lange out couple of days before so close apples to apples.
Basically, the walk mode and ROM were huge differences. Far better on Hoji, no downside to that system. I didn't do as Dynafit suggested and adjust completely to downhill first then leave as is when switching to walk mode. I did have to loosen booster strap a little and first buckle one notch to be in best position for walk but still, to get to downhill comfort in transition was very easy, easier, than with a traditional system. Flex – pretty close. Lange Promodel is stated at 140 and is stiffer than the 130 XT Free LV which I've also owned and stiffer than the Cochise Pro 130, but if anything it’s only a little stiffer at first part of range and I believe the Hoji is smoother through the range – surprisingly more alpine boot like.
Volume was very close, but the instep height is lower on Hoji and that actually helped my foot where the higher volume on Lange in that part of the shell was a little bit of an issue.
My foot felt lower in the shell, closer to ski in the Hoji – very different feel that way between boots. Not sure what that is. Threw my old Cochise on and difference with Hoji was the same. Maybe a little less ramp angle so I feel lower? Not sure. But different for me in a positive way.
Only thing I didn’t like so much was adjusting that 2nd buckle. Obviously didn’t have everything dialed in yet, so had to stop coming down and adjust. It’s difficult to make small adjustments with the strap if standing awkwardly but it was my first day with boot.I think I'll get batter at it, but can't see how it will be as easy as a traditional buckle.
So I definitely preferred the Hoji Free and to a level that surprised me. I think the only way someone wouldn’t is if they had an issue with the lower instep.
One last note is that the length felt very similiar to the Lange in case that's a reference point for someone. 29.5 lange; 29 Hoji.
It was obviously pretty warm here end of season so that obviously impacts things v cold weather, but I’d just had the Lange out couple of days before so close apples to apples.
Basically, the walk mode and ROM were huge differences. Far better on Hoji, no downside to that system. I didn't do as Dynafit suggested and adjust completely to downhill first then leave as is when switching to walk mode. I did have to loosen booster strap a little and first buckle one notch to be in best position for walk but still, to get to downhill comfort in transition was very easy, easier, than with a traditional system. Flex – pretty close. Lange Promodel is stated at 140 and is stiffer than the 130 XT Free LV which I've also owned and stiffer than the Cochise Pro 130, but if anything it’s only a little stiffer at first part of range and I believe the Hoji is smoother through the range – surprisingly more alpine boot like.
Volume was very close, but the instep height is lower on Hoji and that actually helped my foot where the higher volume on Lange in that part of the shell was a little bit of an issue.
My foot felt lower in the shell, closer to ski in the Hoji – very different feel that way between boots. Not sure what that is. Threw my old Cochise on and difference with Hoji was the same. Maybe a little less ramp angle so I feel lower? Not sure. But different for me in a positive way.
Only thing I didn’t like so much was adjusting that 2nd buckle. Obviously didn’t have everything dialed in yet, so had to stop coming down and adjust. It’s difficult to make small adjustments with the strap if standing awkwardly but it was my first day with boot.I think I'll get batter at it, but can't see how it will be as easy as a traditional buckle.
So I definitely preferred the Hoji Free and to a level that surprised me. I think the only way someone wouldn’t is if they had an issue with the lower instep.
One last note is that the length felt very similiar to the Lange in case that's a reference point for someone. 29.5 lange; 29 Hoji.
Comment on this review:
2/1/2020
Wondering what the ramp angle is on the Hoji boot, both the Pro and Free.
2/1/2020
Hey Gordie, unfortunately we don't keep measurements on boot ramp angle, nor do we have a way to measure it -- sorry to say!
Answer this question:
1/9/2020
I was told to go up a half a size from your normal ski boot when you choose a touring boot. Is that where you would start as well?
1/9/2020
Hi Todd, I'm not sure that's a great rule of thumb, there's a lot of nuance in this equation! Your best bet is to visit our boot fitter.
Answer this question:
12/22/2019
Does it come in a size 22 ?
12/22/2019
Bart, this model only goes down to 25. I see Dynafit does make the Pro Tour Womans version in a 22.5.
Few mens boots size below 24 or 25. We do have this in a 22.5 - Zero G.
Few mens boots size below 24 or 25. We do have this in a 22.5 - Zero G.
Answer this question:
10/11/2019
Eric
(downright abused product)
I had the privilege of skiing this boot for the last half of last season and was really impressed with the downhill performance and great "walkability." The 55 degrees of cuff rotation is as advertised and really easy to utilize with the "Hoji-Lock" lever on the spine of the boot. The fact that the lever also loosens the cuff buckle and power strap is an added bonus and makes transitions a breeze! On the downhill, the boots hold their own against true alpine boots and I had no problems skiing them hard at the resort as well as out touring. It really is the one boot to do everything in. Despite having a quiver of boots at my disposal, I have found the Hoji Free to be my go-to for both resort and BC days. **Disclosure - I work as a rep for Dynafit**
1/22/2020
Curious how you think the Hoji Free compares in the real world to the Hoji Tour (which I own). I’ve read the specs, just wondering if you have any side by side experience to share. Thx
1/22/2020
Hey Justin, the Hoji Free has the same level of performance as the Hoji Pro Tour, albeit with a slightly different fit (narrower, higher arch) and a newer, beefed-up liner.
Look forward to getting EPoore's input on this as well!
Look forward to getting EPoore's input on this as well!
1/24/2020
Hi Justin, having skied both of them. I would say that the Free is a stiffer flex and a narrower lower shell (more of a performance fit). Having worn them side by side, I would say the 130 (Free) and 120 (Pro Tour) flex rating is accurate. There is more room over the top of the foot in the Free which I really appreciate and more room in the ankle. I wouldn't say there's a noticeable difference in the ROM when touring thanks to them using the same Hoji Lock Mechanism. Having been a Vulcan lover for years, the Free fits the void my Vulcans left in my boot quiver. Hope this helps!
Comment on this review:
8/15/2019
Has the last been normalized as compared to the initial Hoji? That is, have they reverted to the TLT, or something else?
8/15/2019
Hey Thom! We haven't got any in to try on. The word is that it is 'normalized' as you say. Not the TLT or Hoji Pro.
8/15/2019
Hi Thom, as compared to the Hoji Pro, Dynafit brought the toe height down a notch and also made it a bit narrower in the forefoot. The instep was opened somewhat as well.
3/5/2024
I found size 25 is avaible . Is it same as 25.5 ? because I found in other site only 25.5 available
Answer this question:
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