Viking Gold 5.1 Sapphire

This upgrade of the Gold 5.0 shoe only received a visual update.
The shoe retains the same strong features as the 5.0. That means a great fit and carbon that, besides its bold design, offers improved fit and easy entry.
The shoe is made entirely from cow leather and features a streamlined fixed lace cover made from Lycra. The raised ankle cup is made from a mix of carbon, Kevlar, and thermoplastic. This allows optimal molding for a perfect fit around the foot.

The innovative Sapphire frame is the result of close cooperation with top-level sports, movement science, and the application of advanced technologies.

Thanks to the specific properties of the tube, the specially designed wide bracket, high-quality materials, and perfected welding method, the Sapphire delivers a sensational new Viking experience.
The skate provides maximum pressure without losing steering capability, and despite its sprint height, it is perceived as very stable.

With the Sapphire, Viking introduces a new sensation for the advanced skater.
The combination of high-grade materials and innovative production techniques gives the Sapphire surprising characteristics.
The revolutionary closed (oval) tube shape increases horizontal stiffness by as much as 50%, maintaining consistent properties from front to back.

During its specialized production, a double laser weld method is used to completely seal the steel and tube. This maximally prevents corrosion and offers improved bend retention. A bent blade retains its shape even better thanks to the high tensile strength of the steel.

The Sapphire features a specially developed extra-wide forefoot plate, ensuring great stability (better chassis-to-shoe connection) and direct ice contact. Compared to Viking's Nagano frames, the Sapphire has an extended blade.

The design, materials, and finish give the Sapphire excellent pressure in the corners, improving cornering performance. The Sapphire steers exceptionally well and is rounded for safety, making it suitable for marathon and Mass Start races (ISU regulation compliant).

Viking introduces an innovative and completely new system with the Sapphire, allowing easy frame-to-boot positioning and simple (dis)assembly. A special key is provided to adjust and secure the position nut between boot and bracket.

The rotating mechanism of the frame features high-quality bearings, eliminating play and wear.
The special tension springs with pull rings are easy to replace and available in three strengths.

The Sapphire is available in Standard and Plus versions.
The Plus version has a longer tube/blade, suitable for skaters whose foot size (bracket size) is relatively small compared to their body height.