Weapon of Choice: Kevin Backstrom

Weapon of Choice: Kevin Backstrom Deeluxe Pro Model Boot Aeris

Big jumps and butters, the boot that does what it was designed to do

WORDS Stella Pentti

DEELUXE Boots has always emphasized its team riders, making sure their wishes are heard and adjusting the products accordingly throughout the years. After all, “DEELUXE is driven by a tight-knit crew of dedicated riders,” including Swedish style wizard Kevin Backstrom, who left the comp scene to pursue a path that better suited his vision of snowboarding.

Last year, Kevin was asked to help put together his first signature boot with DEELUXE, the Aeris: an all-mountain ripper that gives you enough support when you want to go big whilst still having a soft enough flex to let you jib around in. Kevin, who was single-handedly responsible for the colourway and the DEELUXE logo adaptation for the boot, took us through what it is that makes his DEELUXE pro model so special.

Hey Kevin, how are you? Any highlights to look forward to this season?

Hey, I’m doing well, thanks. Unfortunately, my season hasn’t kicked off yet, but I’m looking forward to strapping in on snow soon! I would say any day on snow is a highlight as long as it’s not icy and whiteout!

Let’s hope you get to strap in soon. When did you first get on board with the DEELUXE team, and what made you decide to join the team in the first place?

If I’m not wrong, I started riding in DEELUXE boots in 2019. I remember trying them out when I was in Japan. I love it when you feel comfortable in a boot right away, and that’s what I felt in the DEELUXE. Then, I got the opportunity to start riding for the brand, and I’m really thankful for that.

What makes the DEELUXE team special?

I love how diverse the DEELUXE team is! They have an amazing lineup, from mountain goat Xavier to street queen Henna.

Based on your experience, why do you think the Deeluxe boots stand out from the rest of the market?

I think DEELUXE stands out from the rest of the boot brands with their comfortability and support. They’ve got a wide range of models with different stiffness and great designs.

You released your first signature boot with DEELUXE, Aeris, last season and are now releasing the second edition for 24/25. Can you take us through your involvement in designing your signature boot? 

I’m so hyped to have the opportunity to have a signature boot with DEELUXE. The crew at DEELUXE does an amazing job of putting together all my favorite parts into, in my opinion, the perfect boot. I have an Illustrator file that I work on and send over with different colors and designs, and then they make the magic to make it into a product.

You were single-handedly responsible for the colorway and the DEELUXE logo adaptation for the boot. Where did you get your inspiration for this?

When designing the boot, I look at what can fit nicely to the Beyond Medals gear I’m gonna ride with and also something that can look good with any color. I look around a lot on Pinterest and Instagram to find inspiration…

How does the second edition differ from the first one?

The new edition of the Aeris is an updated and more complete version. I feel like it’s the perfect boot and has all the things you need: great support, comfort, and now a snow shield over the lower part of the boot that will keep your feet dry while hiking in pow or riding slushy park.

What kind of rider will enjoy riding the Aeris boots and why? 

It’s an all-terrain boot, so it fits anyone who wants to strap in on the mountain. I use it for backcountry, park, and resort cruising. It has enough support to hit big jumps but is playful if you want to cruise around and butter. 

Thank you Kevin! We look forward to trying out the Aeris ourselves.