The Gist
Our team calls the new XT3 110 W LV the best freeride boot they've ever tested from Lange for it's larger-than-life downhill power (well, it's more robust than the stated 110, they said) combined with newly minted touring range of motion and lighter weight than in the past. It's a roomy forefoot fit for an LV, they said, with a tall fit over the top of the foot but they liked that for some extra warmth and circulation while touring. The classic Lange V-Shaped last remains intact as the rearfoot fit grips the ankles and heel in a more typical low-volume fashion. Testers like the strong flex feel of the 110 but mention that the initial fit is firm against the shin. The XT3's cuff release mechanism works better than previous models and it finally enables real touring range of motion, both forward and back, which testers applauded.
The Fit
Classic low-volume Lange fit for the ankles and heel, as well as up through the cuff, combined with a more relaxed fit in the toebox, forefoot and over the midfoot--testers said this was a great fit map for comfortable ascending and in-control skiing down. Entry and exit wasn't aided by the Dual 3D liner, which has some tacky-feeling fabric that tended to glom onto the sock and crumple-down or even pull out of the shell on exit. Testers hoped that after liner molding it would stay better seated in place. Testers say the shin fit is firm and the flex is solid, feeling stronger than the 110 listing.
Performance
This is where this latest spawn of XT lineage continues to outshine other freeriders--it skis well! Testers say the Dual Core Light polyurethane shell remains damp and stable and the Lyfran polypropylene cuff felt snappy and energetic. Downhill performance did not disappoint, but testers weren't surprised about that--they were fairly surprised that the touring mechanism worked as well as it did (no hang-ups) and they loved that the boot toured more like a BC boot than ever before. Best up-down performance yet for Lange.
Cool Features
In addition to its full-thermo Ultralon liner with double pull loops (good), easy to actuate Active Power V-Lock cuff release, rockered GripWalk soles and Dynafit-certified tech fittings, the XT3 110 W LV also sports grippy mid-arch cladding for secure scrambling and boot-packing.
Kudos