Published October 26, 2020 12:00AM
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The Best Alpine Ski Boots of 2021
The right combination of power, finesse, and comfort
(Photo: Courtesy the Companies)
Tecnica Mach1 MV 120 ($780)
Best All-Mountain Ripper
This season’s update pairs the Mach1’s legendary power with newfound precision. A fiberglass spine down the back provides a progressive flex that smooths bumps and landings, while a lightweight polyurethane shell enhances redirection. The anatomical 100-millimeter last yields material savings that shave 12 percent off the boot’s weight. Testers praised the boot’s sensitivity when zipping through short turns. 4.4 lbs
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Nordica HF 110 ($700)
Best Intermediate Cruiser
Rear-entry boots are easy to take on and off, but they also tend to be squishy and imprecise. The HF avoids that downside. The cuff opens to a gaping 40 degrees, and you can release it using a ski pole for contortion-free on and off. The 102-millimeter last and moderate interior volume feel comfy, not sloppy, and the moldable cork liner lends a responsive feel. Testers reported solid edge control at moderate speeds. 3.9 lbs
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Atomic Hawx Ultra 130S ($850)
Best Lightweight Superblaster
Enhanced this year with a fully heat-moldable liner that allows for unlimited bakes, this ultralight boot comes in a 98-millimeter last option, great for narrow-footed experts. But it’s also stiff enough for Clydesdales. A variable-thickness shell—beefier up the spine and across the forefoot, thinner everywhere else—makes it responsive but powerful enough to pilot big boards through all but the churliest conditions. 3.7 lbs
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Smartwool PhD® Pro Ski Race Socks ($30.95)
Smartwool teamed up with the master of precision and speed, Mikaela Shiffrin, to build the ultimate ski race sock. With streamlined cushioning designed to perfectly fit race boots, a new elasticized arch for a better ‘ski feel,’ and Shred Shield™ durability technology for more warmth and reduced wear from toes, the PhD® Pro Ski Race socks will help remove distractions and discomforts as you rip down the slope.
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Salomon Shift Pro 130 ($975)
Best Quiver Killer
With its supple, seamless liner, 100-millimeter last, and 40 degrees of cuff mobility, the Shift Pro kept testers comfortable during powder pursuits beyond the rope line. A carbon-infused insert in the thin polyamide shell shaves weight, yet it also lends stiffness for full-throttle maneuvers. It’s a no-brainer for resort riders who log short tours. 3.7 lbs
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Dalbello DS Asolo 130 GW ($900)
Best Precision Carver
Former racers praised this boot’s compressive fit and dominating power. The 98-millimeter last and low-volume interior grip the Achilles and forefoot for surgically precise carving. It’s the heaviest boot we tested, but it commands even the stiffest all-mountain and carving skis. If high-angle arcs are your signature move, you’d be hard-pressed to find something better. 4.5 lbs
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