Salomon Synapse 2017 - 2010 Review by The Good Ride

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The Salomon Synapse has been around for a while and has a great reputation for a reliable borderline stiff flexing boot.

Ethics Statement: We don’t get paid by the manufacturer to write these reviews.  No one is perfect and we do make money from the “Where To Buy” links below, but this is our best attempt at an honest and objective review from an average riders’ perspective.

The 2015 Salomon Synapse is the same boot that Mary has loved for many a year but it’s got a bit of reduction in footprint size.  It uses to be full size or larger than the F-Series Boots in Salomon’s line but now it’s more like 1/2 size larger.  The BOA Synapse seems to be sexier these days but the Traditional lace Synapse has a lot of good qualities to consider as well before stampeding off to the cart with the BOA.

Flex:  It has a good flex that is pretty stiff and responsive but also isn’t super stiff so it makes easier boards turn jerky edge to edge.

Turn Initiation:  If you prefer a stiffer boot but also have a quiver of moderate to challenging turning boards this is a good choice.

Comfort:   These boots are pretty comfortable but might require a little break in time to make sure you don’t get any blisters or pressure points.  It’s always a good idea to bring your old boots with you on your first few days with new boots so you can slowly and easily break them in.

Heel Hold: Just a little bit less than the BOA version.  Salomon makes a more narrow fitting boot that grips well along the heel and ankle.

Adjustability:  You have complete separation between upper and lower.  It’s slow going but still gets the same thing done.  It does lock a little higher above the ankle than some lacing systems but it’s still pretty good.  Much better than the BOA here.

Flex Retention:  A little better flex retention than the Synapse BOA.  It breaks down over time but it slowly breaks down so it’s a worthy choice for those that ride lot’s of days a year.

Shock Absorption:  There is a lot of shock absorbent material but it’s a little on the firm side compared to the F-Series boots.  It’s not as slow speed cushy but higher speed damp.

Traction:  Nothing bad here but nothing great either.  It’s not very diverse tread.

Footprint: As said at the top the length has been reduced on the outside without changing the fit inside. This has been long overdue.  It’s still not the first choice for those with an in-between size that want to fit smaller bindings or boards but it’s much better.

On & Off Ease: Not too quick on or off.  It’s like a traditional lace boot with thin laces and a handle.  The handle makes it a little tough lacing up the top but it helps you pull it much tighter than laces without a handle.  The BOA is faster on and much faster off here.