Ski Boot Technician Mark gives his first impression of the new season's narrow fitting ski boots

Since graduating university I have lived and worked in Canada, New Zealand and the UK working as a boot fitter, ski technician and brand ambassador for Salomon & Smith Optics. It’s safe to say skiing is my life!
Profeet Ski Boot Technician – Mark Owen

RX 130 L.V.

Still a 97 last, this bad boy has a more square shape to the toe box….MMMMMM comfy. Thanks to some clever science – dual density plastics plus multiple injection points – it’s easier to get into and stiffer through the rear of the boot. The liner grips better through the heel and achilles, and you’ll be pleased to know it’s still a “Lange” fit.

Technica Mach 1 120 L.V.

If you loved the fit of the old Inferno WC Race boots you’ll love this little gem. There are a couple of tweaks from the standard Mach 1 to give you more comfort – squarer toe box and a pre-punched navicular and there is stiffer material on the outer of the liner which locks your foot in place. Don’t be fooled though, she rips!

Atomic Hawx Ultra XTD 130

Right for all you big bad, weight saving, granola eating shredders out there listen up! Fresh out of Altenmarkt Austria, a 98mm last, 130 flex, pin ready back country bandit! Same shape as the Hawx Ultra Alpine boot with the walk mode from the Backland. She’s light at 1460g in 26.5 and one of the best boots skied on test.

Nordica Strider 120

Another new boy in the freeride/tour bracket and not strictly slim at 100mm last – but this fits on the snug side of 100. Pin inserts, a walk mode that’s upside down – up is down and down is up, very Italian. it also offers 46 degrees of motion and a Michelin Tread on the soles! There’s a 130 and 110 flex also available but we feel the 120 is the sweet spot in the Strider range.

Salomon XMAX RACE 130

A 96mm last? Well not really… The 96mm last is really only a liner change but one that vastly improves fit and foothold. With a full Custom Shell, a 45mm WC Claw powerstrap this boot packs a punch. Don’t be put off by the 130 flex as if you want it softer, take a bolt out of the spine but otherwise jump in and shred. The harder you go, the better it gets.

Head Raptor Speed RS

The benchmark in de-tuned World Cup “plug” race boots for the masses. A BOOSTER power strap for better power transmission, Spine Tech buckles for an increased wrap fit and one of the best made stock liners on the mountain. It fits close and is the only “plug” boot here. Not bad looking either with a matte black paint job.

That’s all for now. Be rad and stay safe out there guys and girls.

For more info, please contact the Profeet Ski Lab on 020 7736 0046.



OUR SERVICE IS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Profeet’s services are by appointment only, please call or book online in advance

Call 020 7736 0046