The Waive snowboard boots may be made for the skin track, but they tackle the downhill with ease. Photo: K2
In a perfect world, splitboard-specific boots expertly manage a bit of a paradox. On one hand, they need to be stiff and supportive enough to handle the demands of steep, technical descents. On the other, they need to offer enough range of motion for the skin track to increase the length of your stride. Ski boot makers solved this riddle some time ago by introducing a dedicated walk mode in many touring-specific boots. But, the engineering challenges of translating the concept into a soft snowboard boot has meant that only a few brands have been able to crack the code.
With K2’s DNA being equal parts skiing and snowboarding, it’s no wonder that the Waive, their latest splitboard-specific boot would draw inspiration from our two-plank friends. The result is a revelation in mobility with an intuitive “walk mode” that is best in class. So, let’s dive in. To see how they stack up against the competition, check out our guide to The Best Snowboard Boots of 2024.
The K2 Waive
Pros: Dedicated walk mode, heat moldable intuition liner
Cons: Takes a lot of steps to be ready once your foot is in
Best For: People who want more efficiency on the skin track
Maybe Not For: Resort only riders who need a stiffer boot
Who are K2’s Waive Snowboard Boots Best Suited For?
If you’re fairly new to splitboarding, or toying with getting into it and are eyeing the gear you’d need to take the leap, I’d argue buying any splitboard-specific boots can wait. Instead, gain some experience in the backcountry, see where your current boots are holding you back, then make an educated purchase down the road.
Also, if your typical backcountry objectives involve less time on the skin track and more time booting up couloirs, something like K2’s Aspect, which is a bit stiffer and features a Vibram Mountaineer outsole may be a better option.
The Waive’s features would most benefit the type of rider that’s no stranger to long days on the skin track who is looking for a boot that’ll take the abuse and help them use energy as efficiently as possible, equating to more laps.
K2 Waive: Notable Features
As you’ve likely already gathered, the feature I loved most about K2’s Waive boots in testing is their dedicated walk mode. A Boa dial on the side of the boot can be released and, with some tugging, the calf panel of the boot opens a bit to allow for more articulation, increasing the length of your stride on the skin track. In practice, this was extremely intuitive and easy to use — even with gloves on, and through layers. The result of opening that baby up is heavenly and makes long tours more comfortable and strides more efficient.
The BOA also connects to a Conda retention device that is exclusive to K2. Essentially, it’s a plastic harness piece that sits over the instep of the liner and tightens to ensure you don’t get any heel rise. The heat moldable Intuition liner is also hugely beneficial to dial in fit, and can be molded and remolded as needed. K2’s Waive boots also feature a heel welt for semi-automatic crampon compatibility and the lace gaiter is also a great feature to keep snow out and keep your toes dry and comfortable.
Looking good in their happy place. Photo: DH
Drawbacks to the K2 Waive
After testing, I would say the process of getting foot into boot and getting laced and dialed to go is a lot. Between adjusting the Conda retention device, tightening the liner, lacing and tying up the traditional lace of the shell, adjusting the upper strap, and tightening down the BOA, there was some experimenting with order of operations that needed to happen on my part to get the proper process and fit I was looking for. Still, I appreciate a pair of backcountry-specific boots that aren’t built around a single point of failure (e.g. one or two BOA dials, or a single lacing system) that could make things difficult in the unlikely event something breaks in the backcountry.
Parting Thoughts
K2’s Waive snowboard boots were designed with the backcountry rider in mind that’s no stranger to burning calories and earning turns. In addition to all the rugged high-end features you’d expect out of a splitboard-specific boot, K2’s Waive boots incorporate an incredibly useful and intuitive walk mode that’s a breeze to use in practice. For those looking to upgrade their split setup, look no further.
Shop now on REIEditor’s Note: For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here. For in-depth reviews of the top snowboard gear in the industry, check out our guides to The Best Snowboard Jackets, The Best Snowboard Pants, The Best Snowboard Goggles, The Best Snowboard Mittens, and The Best Snowboard Boots.
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