December 26, 2004
Written by Ang Tian Teck.

It finally came, a parcel for me. On the box, printed BONT. I opened the box to slowly reveal my new boots. Yes, it was what I ordered. Black leather with silver blue flames and had my initials printed on it. It also came with Bont's waxed laces.

At first glance, the boots looks rather small and compact as compared to my existing custom. Without much hesitation, I mounted them with my Sniper 80 frames and slipped my feet in them. Hmmm! It was rather difficult to fit. Perhaps I laced them too tight. After some lace adjustment, I managed to put them on.

The fit is different from my first custom that was molded using socks. This one is really snug. It is like having the boots stuck to my feet, forever. I could even skate on them without tightening the laces. They are so snug that I find the micro buckle serves no purpose, and so I removed them.

It took me a little while to get use to the different feeling, the really snug feeling. But after that little while, it felt really comfortable. I could skate on them forever.

This pair of Bont factory molded custom made boots is also well balanced in all ways. I mounted my frames on the recommended neutral position and haven't adjusted them since. Every stroke and set down is just too perfect. No pronations, no hot spots, no blisters, no cramps.

Does it make me faster? Hmm! I guess that really depends on individual skating techniques, training, and physical fitness.

Besides me, there is another Virus who had his feet molded by Inze at the Bont factory. I asked him if he shares the same experience as I. His experience was somewhat different, as it was his first pair of speed boots. Unfortunately he had to go through the initial pains of becoming a speed skater. There are really no short cuts to speed skating. A good foundation is a must to master the advance techniques.

Other Viruses that had recently gotten their Bont custom boots are also very happy with them. They have survived many hundreds of kilometers, numerous time trials, and races. They have been put to various tests with many different types of frames and wheels.

If you are serious about speed skating, you really got to get yourself a pair of custom boots. They really makes a difference in comfort and having comfort helps you skate better. And if you are visiting Sydney, you must get your feet molded at the BONT factory. There is no better fit for a perfect custom boots. Try it and you'll know what I mean.

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