The Carbon Spine provides rirm support for clean power transmission, and makes the most of the firm flex for aggressive skiing on any terrain.
The boot has a free/lock mechanism which releases the spine when activated, providing 35° of cuff movement for easier hiking and touring when striking out from the lifts; sure, it's not a full-on touring boot but it will do the job for shorter forays into the backcountry.
Oversized clips and a large powerstrap, plus the custom fitted liner, provide comfort and reassuring foothold, and we like the 'Live Fit' panels at the front of the boot which allow some movement in the shell to take pressure off the forefoot.