The most important component of your ski setup is your ski boots. Choosing and purchasing one is a long and expensive process. That is why it is important to get the right one the first time.
5 Best-Selling Best Ski Boots for Intermediate Skiers
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The main goal in ski boot fitting is finding the right size and shape which you will be comfortable when wearing without sacrificing too much performance. Intermediate to advance skiers have different ski boot requirements when compared to beginners.
This is where the flex index comes into play. One’s flex index is dependent on the skier’s abilities thus, different ski boots have different flex ratings. For this article, let us look into what is perfect for intermediate skiers.
Reviews of 5 Top Rated Ski Boots For Intermediate Skiers
1. Atomic HAWKX Prime 120
Atomic HAWX Prime 120 29.5/Dark Grey-Anthracite
- best fits a medium forefoot and medium shaft of the leg
- prolite construction
- energy backbone
- power shift
- memory fit
If you want the top of the line boots that will be with you while you progress to the advanced levels, then the Atomix HAWKX Prime 120 is for you. The shell material of this boot is made out of polyurethane with a flex rating of 120.
When it comes to sizing, the last width for this model is 100mm. It has a four-buckle design which is made out of 6000-series aluminum.
This boot is sturdy and will provide your feet with the necessary protection that it needs while out on the slopes.
2. Lange RX 120
Lange RX 120 Ski Men's 25.5 MP
The Lange RX 120 is another top of the line ski boot. It is made with a Dual Core shell construction complete with a Dual 3D liner. This ensures that your foot is comfortably wrapped, thus increasing its control precision.
The flex rating of this ski noot is 120 with a maximum width size of 100 mm. The Lange feature a strong heel lock as well as a sturdy foothold without compromising much of the skier’s comfort.
The Dual Core technology works in a way that it actively expands and compresses every time a skier flexes and drives into their boots. It harnesses energy from the skier’s drive and transports it directly to the ski.
Through this, the skier feels like he is very connected to his skis while gliding around the slopes.
3. Rossignol Evo 70
Rossignol EVO 70 Mens Black/Red Sz 8.5 26.5
- shell polyolefine
- replaceable iso 5355 alpine soles
- last: 104 mm forgiving fit for wider feet. the new internal last features a wider forefoot, toe box, and ankle area while retaining a strong heel pocket for generous all-day comfort and support.
- 3 micro-adjust aluminum buckles
- custom t4 liner
The Rossignol Evo is made with the new intermediate skiers in mind. This is not as sturdy as the intermediate to advanced boots. The price difference is noticeable, as well.
This ski boot has a relaxed fit that features a maximum width of 104mm. This provides the skier utmost comfort without sacrificing flex and performance.
It has an Engineered Sensor Matrix technology for its shell, which greatly reduces the weight of the boot. It also feels like it is planted to the skis allowing direct power transfer from the body.
The Rossignol is water-resistant and comes with a flex rating of 70.
4. Nordica M Sportsmachine 90
Nordica Sportmachine 90 Ski Anthracite/Black/White 28.5
- last width: 101
- skill level: intermediate/advanced
- flex: medium
This is a midrange set that is meant for intermediate to advanced skiers. It also has a wide design that best fits the forefoot that is medium-wide as well as medium-sized calf volume.
The boot is lined with 3D Cork Fit Primaloft, which keeps the foot dry. It also provides all-day warmth and comfort. It also has 35mm straps, which provide the skier with the right control and stability.
The shell liner, as well as the hardware, is also customizable due to the Tri-Fit Technology.
5. TECNICA 100 All-Mountain Ski Boots
Tecnica Mens Mach Sport Boots, Graphite, 27.5
- best use - the tecnica mach sport 100 hv are a great set of boots for intermediate and advanced skiers, high-volume fit with 103mm wide last is ideal for people who need a little more room in their boots
- c.a.s. shell - custom adaptive shape shell has an anatomical shape that matches the shape of the foot which allows for a better out-of-the-box initial fit of the ski boots
- self-warming liner - celliant liner contain 13 thermo-reactive minerals that take the body heat produced during workouts and reflect it back as infrared energy, this results in improved warmth, performance, thermal regulation and faster recovery
- easy entry & exit – innovative lift lock system holds the buckles up and out of the boots and prevent them from catching; double quick instep utilizes large, soft plastic over the instep that allows the shell to open more easily for quick entry&exit
- comfort-oriented - full-contact power straps lock in the fit around the calves; asymmetric power transmission shells match a stiffer interior with a more flexible exterior for faster edge-to-edge transitions; extra-thick, soft padding for comfort
If you are looking for a ski boot with a self-warming liner, then the TECNICA 100 is for you. It is a great set for intermediate and advanced skiers. It features a high volume fit with a maximum width of 103mm. This is perfect for people who need an additional room in their boots.
It also comes with a Custom Adaptive Shape shell technology which offers amazing boot fit. It has an anatomical shape that adapts to the shape of the foot.
This boot is also lined with a Celliant liner. This contains temperature reactive minerals that take the human body heat and reflect it as infrared energy. In effect, this will result in improved warmth and better performance. Better thermal regulation in our gears will lead to fast recovery resulting in better overall endurance.
Buying Guide
1. Skier Type
This is relevant because the more advance you become, the more stiffness is required on your boot.
2. Boot Flex Rating
The flex rating of the boot provides the stiffness level of the boot itself. Normally beginner to intermediate skiers should wear a flex rating of around 60-80. Intermediate skiers normally do 85-100. At the same time, advanced players like their stiffness to be around 110-120.
3. Size and Boot Fit
Size and boot fit matter because having the wrong fit will most often than not result in an injury. Whatever you do on the slopes, it does not translate as much to your skis.
You can go to any ski shop. They will normally cater to boot fitting.
4. Instep Height
The height of the instep matters because it allows the skier more flex space, affecting the skis’ overall maneuverability.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best boots rely on the flex rating. A skier can have any boot as long as it matches their skill level.
Again, stiffness depends on what kind of terrain you ride on as well as your skill level. Beginners to intermediate have lower flex ratings compared to advanced skiers who ride technical slopes, thus the need for stiffer boots.
First off, know the purpose of your skiing. This is always the basis for your equipment. Check the instep height, flex rating, and overall boot fit.
A higher price tag does not always translate to better quality. Always choose the best ones that fit your purpose.
Stiffer ski boots are normally made out of denser and harder materials, from its plastic casing down to its liners. The sturdier build always translates to a higher price tag.
Conclusion
Purchasing intermediate ski boots is quite tricky. This is because you would need to think if you got what it takes to improve in the sport. It’s always best to look forward and purchase boots that you can still enjoy while riding more technical trails.
Jomar Teves
A blogger by day, a tech enthusiast by night, and a downhill mountain biker at the weekends. After four years in business school and working for multinational clients, Jomar believes he can improve the world through his writings. Jomar has six years experience as a writer and is a graduate of the BSBA Entrepreneurial Marketing program. His work has been published on Clutch Points, Blokt and iTech.