Shell

The key word here is ‘tough’. The Rome Libertine is built to take an absolute hammering, so if you rack up the days every winter then a pair of these will keep their shape from sketchy pre-season scrapings through to the spring slush.

That’s largely down to the DuraFit outer shell, which is made from thermoplastic polyurethane – a material with properties (eg. resistance to abrasion, ability to withstand cold temperatures) that make it seem tailor-made for snowboarding.

A similar philosophy has informed the sole, which features the light-yet-incredibly hard-wearing ‘Vibram’ material that you’ll also find on many high-end hiking boots. You don’t need to be constantly hiking stair-sets or alpine peaks to reap the benefits of this; even general wear-and-tear from resort riding will eventually lead to your sole letting you down, if what’s under your feet isn’t up to the task. There’s zero danger of that here.

“The sole features the light-yet-incredibly hard-wearing ‘Vibram’ material found on many high-end hiking boots”

Liner

As with any boot, what’s even more important is the interior. Once again Rome has drafted in tried-and-tested tech (in this case, Ultralon foam) that ensures the Rome Libertine is tricked out to the nines.

Ultralon uses two layers of foam to get the right balance between comfort and support. As you might expect, the inner layer is designed to make your feet feel like they’re wrapped in a tender embrace. Beyond that is the more sturdy outer layer, which prevents the liner packing out or sagging even after heavy use.

While a liner that fits this well is unlikely to give you heel lift, Rome has gone belt ‘n’ braces to ensure that it Just. Won’t. Happen. If you pull the liner out you’ll notice a ‘C’ shape of material that hugs the back of your ankle bone on each side, keeping it where it’s supposed to be. Simple, yet undeniably effective.

“The quality on display here is irrefutable, and will please even the most demanding rider.”

Roundup

Boot ‘reviews’ remain an odd beast; getting the right footwear is a highly subjective undertaking, so there’s only so much we can do to steer your decision. However, unless your particular foot shape really doesn’t get on with the Rome Libertine, it’s a near-certainty that this will tick all your boxes. It’s supremely comfortable from day one, leaves the door open for all kinds of riding, and is definitely built to last. When the nuclear strike finally happens, it’ll just be cockroaches and these guys.

Pros:

• Inspired use of third-party tech has made this essentially indestructible.
• The three lacing systems don’t just let you select your preferred style; they also make the Libertine an option for a range of budgets

Cons:

• That industry-leading tech doesn’t come cheap, especially if you opt for the double Boa version

“The Libertine boot family is our premium offering for riders who want a rugged and supportive boot for full-send seasons. This burly goat of a boot is built atop a Vibram Ice Trek 2.0 outsole to keep you sure footed when setting the boot pack or traversing a slick bit of terrain.

The idea behind our ‘boot family’ structure is to offer riders unique lacing configurations on dedicatedly different boot flexes. With the Libertine BOA you get the convivence and locked-in hold of BOA for the most supportive boot in our line. The Libertine Lace is the OG lace option for riders who want the fool proof simplicity and zonal adjustability lacing offers. The Libertine Hybrid BOA is a bit of the best of both worlds with the hybrid heel lock BOA as the backbone of the boot and the laces keeping it oh so comfy.”

Buy the Rome Libertine: £340 at Blue Tomato UK 

Buy the Rome Libertine: €380 at Blue Tomato EU