Fit / Sizing
I normally wear a size 10 boot (in Burton and Nike), but ended up going with a 9.5 in the ID. The fit out of the box was very nice, and I didn’t experience any more pain than normal during the break-in period. The liner and footbed of the ID are relatively basic, nothing like the feature-packed Nike Zoom Kaiju or Burton SLX. They accommodated my slightly narrow foot well, but the ID isn’t so tight that I would expect riders with wider feet to have issues.
Flex
The IDs had a nice medium-to-soft flex out of the box, slightly stiffer than the Kaiju but softer than the Northwave Decade or Burton SLX. Break-in time was only a few days, despite a somewhat tight fit at first.
To eliminate bulging and pinch points around the ankle flex line, Deeluxe uses a “Pro Flex” construction with softer material in zones in front of the ankle. This technology seems to work, as I had no issues with pinching in the ankles.
Performance / Durability
I really enjoyed the versatility of the ID—I felt like I could initiate turns powerfully and drive through crud without getting rattled too much, while at the same time having the ability to jib, ollie, and make short, surfy turns. The ID also seemed to be among the lightest boots I’ve ever ridden, very comparable to the pricier Burton SLX ($550) or Nike Kaiju ($350), which may be due in part to an outsole made of lightweight EVA. I initially thought that this lightweight sole might mean a decrease in durability, but after 30+ days of riding, I haven’t seen any breakdown in the outsole.
As in every snowboard boot, the ID’s flex has softened over time, but I’ve been pleased that this process has been slower than I would have expected, given their pinch-eliminating Pro Flex Zones. Boots with articulating cuffs or other features designed for smooth ankle flex often lose their support much quicker than those without. The ID, however, has maintained its support well.
Overall, I would say that the ID has aged quite well for a mid-flexing boot. That fact, combined with a short break-in time, makes it a good option for both weekend warriors and everyday rippers.
Bottom Line
The Deeluxe ID was an ideal boot for me—it could handle high-impact riding while maintaining its support over time, and held up to plenty of physical abuse. In my opinion, it’s definitely a good option for any intermediate or more advanced rider that is looking for a light, freestyle-flexing boot. It’s well priced for the features it offers, is engineered and thought out well, and is undeniably comfortable.
Deeluxe deserves a closer look from serious riders. They’ve certainly impressed me with the ID, and I look forward to trying out some of their other offerings.
I was just curious what liner you used? Since you can buy the boot with 3 different liners
Thanks, good review. probably going to buy a pair.
Hey Jonas,
I used the Performance Flex liner, as listed in the “features” section of the review. I’m glad you enjoyed the review- It’s a solid boot.
Thanks,
Jed
Sometimes i have the problem that one of the locking mechanism opens by itself. Especially while riding the chairlift.
I donˋt know if it is a problem with the boot or if it is normal with this system?!