# Mountain-Shredding Boarder Gear Cruise the Slopes with the New Balance 686 Snowboard Boot By Matt Ho | Published 2011-10-24 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-686-snowboard-boot References: [blessthisstuff](http://www.blessthisstuff.com/stuff/sports/radical-sports/new-balance-686-snowboard-boot/) & [686](http://686.com) In a couple months people are going to be hitting the slops, so if you're a snowboarder, check out the [New Balance](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/niobium-concept-3) 686 Snowboard Boot as one of the many options for [winter sports gear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/k2-ski-collection) this season. The new boot is another collaborative effort between New Balance and [snowboard company 686](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moncler-grenoble-xx-whitespace). The design takes on the philosophy of less is more, so this time, they've removed a few things in favor of a slicker, cleaner look. The upper utilizes 686's rugged nylon mesh as well as New Balance's heritage in sneakers as a contrast between what the two brands bring to the table. On the technical side, they've integrated absorb cushioning system in the liner, increased stability from the sole, a lighter weight and more. So far the New Balance 686 Snowboard Boot is looking impressive and should provide all the goods on the slopes. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.6/10 - Popularity: 36% | Activity: 4% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Sports](https://www.trendhunter.com/sports) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Collaborative Winter Sports Gear:** Collaboration between brands in designing winter sports gear can result in products with unique design philosophies and innovative features. - **Minimalistic Snowboard Boot Design:** Designing snowboard boots with less features and a clean look can attract consumers seeking a simpler, more stylish option. - **Integrated Technology in Snowboarding Gear:** Integrating innovative technology in snowboarding gear such as absorb cushioning systems and increased stability soles can enhance performance and attract consumers. ### Who This Affects Most - **Winter Sports Equipment:** Companies that manufacture winter sports equipment can explore collaborating with other brands, incorporating minimalistic design and integrating advanced technologies to create unique products that appeal to consumers. - **Footwear Industry:** The footwear industry can leverage its expertise in sneaker design to collaborate on designing stylish, lightweight snowboard boots with innovative features. - **Sportswear Industry:** The sportswear industry can integrate advanced technologies in winter sports gear to make products that enhance performance and stand out from competitors. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Collaboration Modular Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/niobium-concept-3.md) - [Sleek Freestyle Snowboard Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/welcome-x-686.md) - [Streetwear-Inspired Snow Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/snow-boot.md) - [Bright Chunky Skate Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/numeric-480.md) - [Sporty Winter Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sporty-winter-boot.md) - [Modular Snow-Ready Boots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hf-boot-collection.md) - [High-End Snowboard Collaborations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/moncler-grenoble-xx-whitespace.md) - [Futuristic Sleek Bouldering Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ab2-11s.md) - [Nature-Inspired Weatherproof Sneakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-580-goretex.md)