The Best Alpine Ski Boots of 2021
The right combination of power, finesse, and comfort
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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
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
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
Sponsor Content
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.
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
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
