other categories: plug | all mountain | moving up | cruising | out for fun
Consumer Race/Expert
These aren’t brick-like World Cup plug boots, but they still produce more horsepower than most skiers could ever hope to saddle. If you’re at the top of the skills pyramid, cherish speed and power, and hope to move up a few places in the town race league standings this winter, theses are your boots of choice. They are generally loaded with no-frills top-line technology including micro/macro adjust buckles, heat-moldable liners and strong power straps. Most of their attributes translate nicely from the racecourse to the rest of the mountain.
Atomic Tri-Tech T11 Race $689
Tri-Tech and Bi-tech liners both improved over last year with fleece in toe box and other tweaks. Company has also trimmed line down to two model collections—Tri-Tech and Bi-Tech. All Tri-Tech models use a three-piece lower integrated lower shell construction of shell/free-floating stabilizer/toe & heel lug interfaces and the toe and heel are cantable.
Bi-Techs have same last shape as Tri-Tech but with uni-body construction of two differing plastic consistencies. Liner is roomier over instep with more volume at ankles and there are no cantable soles.
Review
Atomic’s Tri-Tech platform is a clever concept that links the toe and heel lugs with the body of the lower shell with a floating stabilizer that free-flexes longitudinally inside the toe housing. All you really need to know about that is that it minimizes the flat spot under foot when the ski is flexed and permits it to work more naturally. The T 11 Race uses a carbon fiber version for quick response on prepared snow. A plastic heel volume reduction cup is an in-the-box option for skiers with low profile heels. It can also easily be ground to accommodate heel spurs. The liner in the Race 11 is features a layer of form-fit foam around the heel and ankle provides better foot mating capabilities. Different height heel and toe lugs and one degree shims for canting are welcome options. It comes in two color ways, both of which are sure to get you noticed: fire engine red/white and apple green/lime.
On The Hill
Fun, fun, fun! Very lively with a bouncy yet controlled feeling. Edge engagement is ninja quick and it slithers through tight moguls. Retained strength even in warm temps and through baked snow. Interchangeable sole canting moderately effective but cumbersome. Excellent ankle and heel retention. Liner will accommodate C-D width; more than that will require shell grind. Buckles lack dual hinge and are difficult to open but are top quality. Fit and finish still need attention; soles not always flat from factory.
Beware
Low cuff height may not provide enough control for tall skiers.
Dalbello Avanti V Tech $625
Key Features
Ergo Entry system hinging lower shell panels for easier entry/exit.
Powerlink System cuff closure for better heel hold and power.
Three-position forward Lean with allen key adjuster on spine.
Flex Adjuster. Hard/soft on spine.
PowerAmp spoiler which is Velcro mounted on front of cuff.
Quadralock Cuff which has four bolts to secure and is easily removed for interior shell work.
Screw Rivet buckles.Review
Similar boot last year was called V12 Pro Custom. It continues to be a good bargain for skiers looking for non-race course technical performance. (Dalbellos typically sell at healthy discounts.) This V-Tech has a bag of novel adjustments like the front-mounted PowerAmp Velcro spoiler that adjusts with ease to change flex and cuff volume. Like real race machines, the buckles are screw-riveted for quick change. The cuff is secured with four bolts to facilitate interior shell work and dramatic change in flex. Fit and function are enhanced by a split cuff wrap that improves taper to the lower leg, spine-mounted, three-position forward lean and two-spot flex adjusters.
On The Hill
Not a bamboo banger like other in category but enough intensity for all-mountain efforts. And a price you can’t beat. If you spend time messing around with family on blue trails you’ll appreciate the V Tech. It is pleasantly comfortable—especially the silky smooth liner that can be custom heat molded—and aggressive enough to turn it up a notch. It’s consistent from edge to edge with a secure but not overbearing feeling.
Beware
Lacks race stoutness.
Dolomite Rage Pro (Flex index 130) $775
Key Features
Torsion rods in sole.
Pivoting rear spoiler.
Hard/soft flex adjuster.
50 degrees of lateral clearance. Can lay it over big time in race course.
Dual cuff alignment.
Twin tongue liner and twin power straps to aid lower leg shape adaptation.
Firm race liner.
Vibration dampening heel and toe lugs.Review
When you’re the new kid on the block you’ve got to work harder to get noticed. Now in its second season, Dolomite’s flagship embraces new technology including a novel Twin Tongue Liner that wraps the calf from both front and back. Its twin power strap runs through the height-adjustable Active Pivot rear spoiler so that it moves with the leg when the boot it flexed forward rather than gapping. That provides better power transmission and comfort. A pair of twin composite torsion rods run from toe to heel to reduce unwanted torque. If there’s one familiar aspect it’s the company’s characteristic substantial girth in the forefoot.
On The Hill
Our guys felt the Twin Tongue definitely doubled their pleasure. It provides superior leg support both fore/aft and laterally and that makes for command on demand turns. It is comfortable at speed and likes to be on edge with full leg extension. “It will make you get your skis out from under you,” said one male tester. Our female testers were less enthusiastic. They experienced the Pro’s power and support but felt the cuff rose too high on the leg robbing it of subtlety for all but the tallest of women.
FischerF 9000 Race Ti $625
Refines second-year “duck-foot” stance Soma Tech concept, reducing weight with cut-away buckles and fewer sole screws. Shell unchanged but blocky look cosmetically softer with more sedate colors and open-look buckles. New models added to broaden line including two with innerboots specifically lasted for women.
Key Features
Abducted toe-out stance.
New buckles
Flex adjuster
Forward lean adjuster
Flexible “hinge” on liner
Lift up entry system on spine
Flo liner
Head RS 100 SuperHeat 3 (Flex index 101/91) $735
Still has kind of goofy long name but this new model is a true stab at building world class boot. Uses 104mm FF width last.
Key Features
New wire bail buckles. They look minimalist fast.
Dual injection shell.
Flex adjustment the old fashioned way. Remove screws from the spine.
Instep Ad-apt buckle
Dual Cant
Adjustable rear spoiler
Adjustable/removal front spoiler
Liner with numerous reinforcements, asymmetrical ankle frame, heel stay insertion pockets, stretch neoprene toe.Review
Head has loaded its new flagship model with just about every trick in its arsenal including the wondrous Full Custom Frame, an open-toe, bobsled shaped plastic insert that makes the shell width adjustable shell—an industry first. The shell is also dual injected for separation of flex and fit. Outside, retro-look bail buckles micro/macro adjust and the instep buckle adapts for instep height. A pair of spine-mounted bolts screw in or out to adjust cuff flex. Inside, the new heat-moldable SuperHeat3 liner has reinforced ankle and heel frames (with insert stay options) for crisp power transfer. A soft toe box tip accommodates a variety of toe lies.
On The Hill
A perfect blend of power, precision and playfulness for high performance skiers. It rolls quickly and energetically on and off edge and easily releases from turns. The flex is progressive without ever bottoming out. The fit is snug, firm and balanced. The Full Custom Frame provides extensive fit range and is easily modified. The one goes to the Head of the class—in an all-boys school. Our women were generally positive but experienced hot spots at the ankle and shin, commenting that the cuff rose too high for them.
Beware
Liner reinforcements are plenty and may require customization.
Lange WC 130 CAC $850
Key Features
Cantable soles.
CAC liner comfort and performance
Tongue padding has been thinned from previous models.
Power Plate.
Aero racing buckles said to provide dynamic resistance to movement for greater security
and resistance to popping open.
Double hinge lower buckles
Don’t be confused. There are differing cosmetics on left and right bootsReview
Lange says this is as close to a “real” race boot as you can come without going to a plug model. That’s not surprising since it uses a monoblock shell construction (lower rises high into the cuff region). It is available in both foot hugging Low Fit and slightly more voluminous (but still form fitting) Medium Fit shells. Know what you’re getting; they look identical. The liner remains one of the thinnest on the market but it employs a new type of thermo-moldable multi-layer nylon material (Custom Air Concept) that takes a more defined set that EVA foams. A non-removable spoiler is integrated into the liner rear to increase forward lean. The boot is available with replaceable heel and toe lugs with 1.5 degree cant angles for pinpoint stance adjustment. The liner is heat-moldable but marginally padded which means it takes a “Lange foot” to fit well. The buckles are top notch with dual-hinging lowers for easier opening with gloves. This may also be the best looking of all the boots in this class. That’s not surprising since it is a Pininfarina design, the Italian firm that also crafted looks for brands like Ferrari and Porsche. Custom Air Concept (CAC) liners use multi-layer nylon insert throughout entire liner (except tongue). Under heat, nylon hairs lose their structural integrity and conform to foot. Set is said to be superior to prior generation foam technologies but our testers didn’t notice significant difference.
On The Hill
This is a beefy flexing boot for highly skilled and larger, heavier skiers. The stiffness promotes a taller stance that demands a hard driving style and precision skills. Cruising is pretty much out of the question. If you’re not ready to mind the helm 24/7 you can easily run into a Titanic style disaster. It wraps the foot with enchilada-like closeness and moves side to side with the strength of a lion. It is very tight—especially in the toe box—and while it does break in to the foot after skiing, it is by no means plush. If you’re looking for comfort or a drop of forgiveness, drop down to the Comp 120 or FR 120.
Beware
Full-bolted, true race machine. There is no cuff cant so if you need adjustment boot tech must re-rivet cuff. In a bit of marketing mayhem, left and right boots have different cosmetics. Don’t think you’ve got two different models.
Nordica Dobermann Pro 130 (Flex index 130) $835
Key Features
Pro liner is more conventional than plug model 150
Neoprene toe box.
Thin liner. Use rear strap to pull up while sliding in to prevent wrinkling of heel pocket.
Review
A real deal World Cup-style boot with C-clamp close 98 mm forefoot width. Cuff and lower are cemented together with two screw studs that spin out to soften (a relative term) flex. All buckles and ladders are screwed on for quick change when needed. The two lowers are hinged for easier opening. 130 designation indicates flex relative to other Nordica models. Quick-set spoiler Velcros to back of liner speedily and securely. Cuff alignment is negligible.
On The Hill
If you wear flip-flops all summer long you’ll probably not fit into this tubular affair descended from the legendary Nordica Grand Prix. It skis as tenacious as its canine namesake implies, latching onto the ski as if your foot was screwed directly to it. Said one tester, “Michael Andretti himself couldn’t outsteer me in this boot.” Ultra-light weight gives it snappy, floating feeling. Neoprene toe box gives plenty of wiggle room.
Beware
Use rear strap to pull up while sliding in to prevent wrinkling of heel pocket.
Rossignol Elite Pro 1 Ltd. (Flex index 120/110) $819
Top model in new race/freeride line. Venerable Rossi Inverted Overlap has been discontinued.
Key Features
Activator is pair of Salomon rear-entry reminiscent elastomer wedges between upper and lower that is said to provide rebound energy.
Active Hard Sole is an injected elastomer boot board that oozes through sole to integrate with exterior of boot to provide added energy and rebound while reducing distortion and increasing warmth. Make zeppa (boot board) non-removable.
Soft structure over instep borrows technology from Soft line.
Custom Air Fit (new custom fit liner technology shared with sister-company Lange) throughout including tongue.
Double cuff adjuster.
Two-position rear spoiler.
Double lever lower buckles.
Flex adjuster
Four easy-close high leverage buckles.
Salomon Course Spaceframe (Flex index 120) $775
Key Features
Asymmetrical Softening
High upper cuff with Softex stiffeners
Extra beefy powerstrap
Adjustable 3D instep buckle
New cuff adjuster device
Custom fit liner
Bi-material cuff with lateral insertReview
Salomon’s new Spaceframe concept—a honeycomb web of holes pierced through the lateral side of the lower shell—may be the biggest ado about nothing since the Seinfeld show. The asymmetrical softening permits the lower to bow outward ever so slightly to increase uphill edge contact and therefore control. In addition to the hole punching, the top-end Course gets a graceful make-over with a raised upper cuff and more tapered thermo-moldable liner with stiffening plate on the medial side for better power transmission. It retains the clever 3D instep adaptation buckle (a former Bootie Award winner), twin cuff adjusters and super-beefy power strap.
On The Hill
The Spaceframe significantly softens the upper edge engagement which many believe lead to most bobbles at top level racing. By sweetening the boot’s ability to “bounce” and absorb shock it is wicked easy to steer the uphill ski without losing any of its snow bite. It has substantial support in the rear so you can pound from turn to turn with confidence. Exceptionally versatile, it will do anything, anywhere, anytime. . Wide cuff adjustment range will accommodate both bowleg and knock-knee skiers. 3D buckle adjusts nicely for high/low insteps. Again, our women felt the cuff rose too high on the leg for all but tall women to handle
Beware
Not your typical Salomon cushy “shop feel.” The tolerance are low and the fit is tight. It requires tight-fit tolerance or a relationship with a good boot fitter.
Tecnica Diablo Magnesium Ultrafit $779
The spiffed out racer with all Tecnica gizmos.
Key Features
Twin support cuffs to better distribute lateral pressure.
Magnesium buckles. Proprietary technology. Ultra light while improving closure leverage. Pivoting ladder folds up and off shell to improve entry/exit.
Rapid Access for easy entry/exit.
First buckle positioned higher on shell for better wrap and higher clearance when laid over.
New self-locking plate design on Dual Pivot cuff.
Two-position flex adjuster.
Three-position spoiler. (Wedge in box to increase FL).
Neoprene toe box.
Self-molding foam around ankle area.
Heel frame on liner said to provide more defined pocket.
Lycra on interior spine of liner for easy slide in and out.
Velcro strap threads through cuff stays for more secure hold.
Vibration dampening with grip sole for sure-footedness in slippery conditions.Review
Tecnica’s now-retired Icon (Big I) was certainly a good boot-building platform, but somehow it never achieved the icon (small i) status among good skiers of the TNT that preceded it. The new Diablo series should restore Tecnica’s sheen at the high end. The company smartly studied how skiing was changing and how it could better integrate the changes required to execute modern, four-edge ski technique into its new boot. Not surprisingly, the story at Tecnica is technical. So in our best “tech talk,” here are the most significant changes in the top Race Pro: Twin upper cuff flanges better distribute pressure laterally. The last positions the foot to better pressure downhill and uphill edges at the same time. Ramp angle is lowered, forward lean increased and sole clearance maximized to accommodate extreme lateral angles. The Pro also has all the regular Tecnica goodies like Rapid Access and Dual Pivot (former Bootie Award winners) plus too many extras to detail. Available with Hot Form custom liner for $85 premium.
On The Hill
Gliding on a single ski is an instruction trick for determining how well a skier is balanced and one our testers routinely execute on the flats. This boot noticeably enhances your ability to do just that by letting you work both edges. That skill translates to better control all they way up the terrain pyramid. The new Diablo shell design also wraps the lower leg and ankle securely providing strong rear support for crisp and energetic action at the end of turns. And unlike previous Tecnicas which were shaft-steering focused, the new design blends in better use of foot steering for spontaneous edge response. Lycra on interior spine of liner facilitates easy slide in and out. Expect to spend time setting this one up. It has lots of adjustments to make but they are all worth taking the time to set. Magnesium buckles are noticeably ultra-light.
Beware
Runs big! Downsizing a must for most.
