Originally Posted by
kootenayskier
So many different approaches to skiing, interpretations of a day of touring, and foot shapes. I’m an aging (53) lifelong, full time skier, using technique and gear to ameliorate my slowly and steadily declining physical prowess, and trying to hold my own with younger skiers.
For huge days, covering lots of ground, skiing classic lines but not charging, and for my low volume low instep anatomy, nothing comes close to the ~1300gm Salomon S-Lab X/Alp (and presumably the related Arcteryx Procline, which with the added tongue might be my perfect boot). They’re only a bit lighter than my Hoji Frees, but the all day comfort (with LV protour liners)and walk ability has to be experienced to be believed. I’m choked that they’ve been discontinued. I can’t imagine skiing anything less supportive.
On shorter days, and when I’m just lapping more technical lines, looking for more of the fore aft support and rebound of a hill boot, the ~ 1500gm Hoji Frees (I have the 110s) do the job. Their ROM is fine, they’re way warmer, presumably are going to be much more durable (my Salomons are shot after ~ 100 days), and the fit is a bit spacious (which I’m taking up with MV Luxury liner). Probably just fine as a do it all touring boot for many.