The Gist
The new 2018 K2 Pinnacle 130 LV returns with a revised, lighter weight liner, new slimmed-down buckles and a fresh look. Testers say this is still a strong skiing boot with lots of All-Mountain mobility options for good skiers.
The Fit
Testers noticed that this year's lighter Intuition liner opened up the fit a little bit over previous versions, placing the fit on the fence between narrow and medium territory, they said. Good anatomical contours, right out of the box, they agreed, but those who performed custom liner molding tests did prefer that fit over stock. The upper portion fits along medium-width standards and is fairly padded—which testers liked against the shin and they said there was room in the cuff for thicker calves (it's not a stove-pipe).
Performance
Reliable and strong with a predictable turnover from one set of edges to the other, the Pinnacle 130 LV holds its own (and an edge). Testers say this is still one of the best hybrids for transmitting lateral power to the ski. The crew was in agreement that the upper cuff sits a touch upright but that it didn't hamper a move to the front of the ski. Some testers feel a little fore-aft free play in the cuff, but beyond that minor amount of movement things were solid front and back. The boot is regular alpine weight—which skis well but may not make it the longest skinner, however the easy-to-operate cuff release is still one of the best, offering long and fairly unhindered travel.
Cool Features
The Pinnacle 130's (and Pro and 110's) are tech binding compatible and rockered Vibram soles are also available separately. Gone this year is the releasable hook-style buckle power strap (and testers didn't mind), replaced with a straightforward four-buckle closure and 40 mm Velcro power strap.
Kudos
Caveats