Buying ski boots isn’t as easy as buying a normal pair of shoes. The colour and price doesn’t make them any better than the next pair, so rather than buying with your eyes take some time to talk to a specialist boot fitter and don’t be afraid to try a few pairs before deciding what works for you. Heat moulding technology is constantly evolving so explore how ski boots can be tailored to meet your needs, be it narrow or wide feet to large calves or slender legs.
Best for: Conquering the whole mountain
Tecnica Cochise 120
Technica claim these boots will make you ‘conquer mountains like a master ninja’ so a great choice if you are a first to last lift devotee and out to clock up some mountain miles without your feet suffering. These lightweight bad boys have Tecnica’s legendary progressive flex with reduced friction at the pivot points along with a snug fit around the ankle and mid foot.
If you are looking to mix your mountain experience up and head into the backcountry then the Cochise 120 is the go to boot for you. The Dynafit tech inserts are moulded into the soles so no need to swap out if you go alpine for the day and the Self Adjusting Mobility Cuff offers a 42º range of motion so hiking to that secret spot is a mere walk in the park!
Best for: Those seeking comfort over speed
Atomic Hawx Magna 80
Hawx has been Atomic’s bestselling boots year in, year out and the Magna 80’s are an ideal addition to the line. Tailored to a wider foot and with a soft flex these forgiving boots are best suited to the beginner to intermediate skier looking to link flawless turns or the all-mountain fan seeking comfort over speed. Although geared to those newer to skiing the Hawks have the same features as the more advanced models in the range, including memory fit that memorises the foot shape after heating the liner and the moulding to the foot. The Thinsulate liner ensures feet remain warm during the coldest conditions. These are comfortable boots and come with a range of adjustment features that allow different foot and leg sizes to get the best fit possible.
Best for: Aspiring intermediate skiers
Dalbello Panterra MX80
The Panterra MX 80 is geared towards intermediate and aspiring intermediate skiers. The 3 piece design is the secret behind the success of these boots. Firstly the ski/walk feature allows you to stroll comfortably to the lifts in the morning and with a quick flick of a switch on the back of the boot you will be locked and ready to hit the slopes. The Contour 4 Drive & Control Technology gives you a more secure fit that provides more control and performance while the smooth forward flex of the shell gives a more responsive feel. In addition to this trio of features the 103mm spacious toe box is surrounded by a Supercomfort liner that will insulate and cushion the foot to give you comfort as well as commanding your skis.
Best for: All day skiing comfort
Salomon X Pro 100
The X Pro range from Salomon is their all-mountain, recreational to advanced skier option that continues to prove popular amongst skiers with a slightly larger foot volume. The combination of TwinFrame and Oversized Pivots provide the energy transmission and response to match this impressive fit, making the boot ideal for fast, controlled skiing. The 100 flex allows a smooth feel and no fighting the pain of a stiff flex while you blast through powder or cruise the corduroy.
The stand out feature has to be the My Custom Fit 3D Performance Liner which in 20mins can be moulded to your feet to instantly resolve pressure points for unmatched foothold along with the 360° Custom Shell and Cuff that can be adapted to a variety of foot widths to ensure maximum comfort.
Best for: Performance and comfort in one
Head Advant Edge 105
Feel the ‘advant edge’ of these boots from the first time you ski in them. The easy entry shell allows you to slip your foot into the Perfect Fit HD Pro Liner which balances comfort with power transfer to give you control over your skis. The 105 flex means there is a quicker response than the normal 100 but not too stiff that it will cause pain. The Hi-Top Shell Construction is essentially a lower shell that extends higher up your shin which increases the area of direct contact between the tongue of the liner and the lower shell of the boot. This translates to mean a performance driven boot that delivers comfort to allow an all-day mountain session. Simples!
