the zay story
INSPIRED BY AN IDEA
Zay Products began as a modern ski boot design company inspired to solve a problem. The problem was the most common complaints that skiers have of their boots: sore, cold and tired feet, and inconsistent flex that affects performance.
The idea was producing the world’s first automatic tensioning ski boot, using innovative technology for a customizable fit. The inspiration was delivering comfort, warmth and performance leading to longer, better ski days for intermediate to expert level skiers.
EXPERTISE OF INDUSTRY PROS
Zay collaborated with industry leaders and pioneers – including esteemed designers and engineers from Lange, Nordica and Nike — to create our unique ski boot that bridges tradition and innovation. And Zay boots are proudly made in Colorado!
Ed Chalmers, renowned former director of engineering at Lange and the inventor or co-inventor of nine ski boot related patents, was instrumental in creating the Zay boot. Chalmers devised a system called radial closure, the simple principle of closing the lower portion of the ski boot around the foot with cables that automatically and uniformly apply bands of tension around the entire foot. This system eliminates buckle pressure points and allows the shell to pull closer to the foot for more sensitive skiing.
A BETTER SKI EXPERIENCE STARTS WITH A BETTER BOOT
Unlike traditional ski boot manufacturers, the Zay boot is built from the inside out. Our design started with the biomechanics of the foot, with the liner next and the shell coming as the final step. We hired a consulting firm that had worked with footwear companies like Nike, Adidas and Red Wing to design and build the last of the inner boot, then wrapped the shell around it. Every step of the way, we prioritized comfort and performance.
We challenged ourselves to “reimagine the boot”, and put together a team, including Chalmers, to create the Zay ski boot using Dynamic Radial Closure technology. Chalmers also designed the boot’s cuff hinge, which articulates forward and backward, tying together the shell. Boot fitting legend Sven Coomer, a longtime resident of Aspen, contributed to features that address heel lift and toe box comfort.
FROM SKIERS TO SCIENTISTS TO SNEAKER DESIGNERS
A big part of our process was talking — with boot fitters, pro skiers, intermediate level skiers, engineers, designers, ski instructors, scientists, retailers, and maybe even a few ski resort bartenders. But not just folks from the ski industry – we engaged with sneaker designers and lifestyle experts. We decided to change everything about how ski boots feel, fit and function. Turns out that innovative ideas make extraordinary boots.
Most importantly, we have created a culture of honesty and transparency. We are proud to have built a company of friendly, approachable humans. We are passionate about what we do, but like to have fun doing it.