NORTHWAVE SNOWBOARD BOOTS F/W 2025/26 PREVIEW

Retail Buyers Guide: Snowboard Boots F/W 2025/26 Retail Buyer’s Guide
Brand: Northwave
Interviewee: Gian Luca Barbi

How was last season in the snowboard boot market?
Good we launched 2 new models that have been very successful and well perceived

With the recent overall price increases, have there been any positive developments in manufacturing, sourcing, or logistics?
We are maintanig pricing

What are the major trends you’re seeing with product pricing in the snowboard boots market?
All other brands are getting higher and higher

E-commerce Vs. physical retail, how are you balancing both channels?
By giving the best service and support possible to physical retailers

How are you supporting retailers to sell this category?
Supporting them on Demos on snow and any other activities they organize

What unique brand messages are you focusing on for the 2025/2026 snowboard boot season?
The most Comfy and the best value for money that last long time and adabt to any riders level & style!

Are you introducing any new or innovative materials (for outer shell, reinforcement, cushioning, support, or grip) in your 2025/2026 boots?
For the 2025/2026 season, we are continuing to refine and enhance the materials used in our boots, building on the new technologies introduced last season. While we are not introducing entirely new material categories, we have optimized the existing ones to improve performance and durability. This includes more efficient cushioning systems, improved grip for better traction, and increased support where needed for enhanced comfort during long rides.

Are there any updates or significant changes in your liner technology or programs for the 2025/2026 collection?
We have focused on fine-tuning our liner technology, using feedback from last season to refine the fit and comfort. While the core technology remains consistent, we’ve improved the materials used in the liners to offer better heat retention and breathability. These upgrades aim to increase comfort, moisture control, and overall warmth, which will benefit riders throughout their time on the mountain.

What lacing systems will be your main focus for the 2025/2026 boots?
Our main focus for the 2025/2026 boots will be on our new 2 Spin Lacing System, which is an updated version of our previous system. This new design offers enhanced ease of use and greater precision when adjusting tightness, making it more intuitive and quicker to adjust on the go. The 2 Spin system ensures a secure and customizable fit, offering riders the confidence that their boots will stay comfortably in place all day.

What are the dominant visual themes, patterns, and materials you’ll be highlighting in next year’s boot line? Any artist collaborations or notable partnerships?
For the 2025/2026 season, we have focused on creating a cohesive collection with a clean and streamlined design. The visual consistency across the range reflects a modern aesthetic, ensuring that each boot in the lineup complements the others in both style and performance. Additionally, we have a special collaboration with Ethan Morgan for his pro model, which features unique design elements that reflect his personal style and performance needs.

Which segment of your boot range (Freestyle, Freeride, All-Mountain, Beginner) are you investing in the most, and why?
For the 2025/2026 collection, we have dedicated a specific line for each type of boot to cater to the different riding needs. We’ve focused on creating softer boots for freestyle riders, offering greater flexibility and comfort for park and trick riding, while our stiffer boots are designed for performance, providing the support and responsiveness needed for more aggressive freeride and all-mountain riding. This ensures that each boot delivers optimal performance for its intended use.

Key Products:

Freedom:
A soft flex boot designed for playful riders who seek comfort and manoeuvrability in freestyle.