Riedell Vega

Spotlighting ULTIMA FUSION SOLES vs EDEA SOLES

Whenever a new product or feature becomes available it’s essential to take a closer look as to what benefit it offers and to whom.

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       Taking a closer look at the new Ultima Fusion Sole which is the newest feature added to their product line, one immediately thinks “Well, it’s an obvious attempt to compete with the lightweight Edeas and Risports, but does it actually make them better?”

       The technology behind Edea construction is based on creating a specific lightweight boot, with better control, that acts as an extension of the skater’s foot and reduces the shock of impact. Now that’s a great concept, and when they add some Swarovski sparkle for appeal…the phrase “sell like hot cakes” comes to mind! They break in quickly and mold to the skater’s feet with minimal effort. The sole is a composite of fiberglass and nylon, making it extremely thin; heel construction is angular which allows for a more natural contour. Benefit to skaters is without question,  if you consider that THE FORCE OF JUMP IMPACT IS 7-8 TIMES THE SKATER'S BODY WEIGHT, every bit of shock absorption helps.

 

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 Negatives? Well, they are expensive, require an extremely specific lacing pattern, unique mounting, and exact sizing or boot does not hold up well. When they break down, due to the acrylic support system, boots are a dead issue. Unfortunately, unless skaters have an extra pair broken in, this could happen at a very awkward time. High level competitors break in at least 2 pair so they have an extra… just in case. An additional NOENE insole is required for greater shock absorption. Promo says that you can never “over-boot” which has put way to many mid-level skaters in high level boots with the belief that it will improve technique. It doesn’t, and yes, you can over-boot, even with Edeas. Unless the skater can get used to a very loose ankle area, Edea's will not perform as designed.

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Jackson’s construction has always been extremely durable, outlasting many others. It offers more design options in structure and width, making a better match for a greater variety of feet. The insoles have good arch support and boots are completely heat moldable so there is no need to “hope” that they mold to your foot naturally, or perform the carefully orchestrated minimal punch technique required by other brands. They do take a bit longer to break in and gel sleeves are usually recommended for comfort.

NOW...

What about the FUSION concept? Why is everyone shifting away from leather

and is it an improvement? Let’s take a closer look:

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First things first… Jackson technology reports: “Microfiber has been more durable and lasting longer than leather. The issue I feel that with the global banning of chemicals and processes to tan leather as before has led to acceptance of “softer” leathers through vegetable Tanning. If skating was accepting synthetic a decade or two ago, no stiffness issues would be present. Additional heat molding with some flection has addressed those with stiff boots.” 
Jackson touts itself as balancing tradition and innovation; and they have usually been in the forefront of testing new designs, concepts and materials that are meant to enhance technique. Some work, some are terrific concepts that just don’t work out in practice like the Proflex hinged boots.

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• LIGHTWEIGHT BUT DURABLE

The Fusion Sole is constructed from a solid piece of lightweight nylon composite which is much stronger, waterproof, requires minimal maintenance (Hello, DOI skaters)

• MINIMIZES LATERAL TORQUE. In other words: Nylon has some flexibility yet resists twisting from the pressure of jumps.

• CONSISTENT FLUSH MOUNTING

No concave or convex plastic soles that make blade mounting a nightmare. One piece nylon construction provides a consistent flat surface and better grip for the screws.

• BETTER SHOCK ABSORPTION

A layer of rubber inlay provides a non-slip blade mount and superior shock absorption. No need to add an extra insole. The Fusion sole is 25% lighter than the standard sole.

• VARIETY WITH BOTH NEW AND CLASSIC DESIGNS

The Fusion sole is available on a variety of models so skaters of many ability levels and sizes, including stock wider widths, can utilize the new technology and explore the benefits.

 

Here’s the thing…. These are new, so to see if these points are as accurate in practice as they are on paper, more “skate’s on” evidence needs to be compiled. It certainly seems to have used the newest technology positively, correcting durability and quality control issues, plus adding a greater range of products and sizes.. all with the required amount of bling. So, stay tuned as more reports become available, we will update with current feedback. They sound very promising.