For most skiers and snowboarders, choosing a new pair of boots is no easy task. There are hundreds of different models to choose from, and each model comes in several different sizes.
Along with being a tough chore, choosing the wrong pair of boots can cause a number of problems, including muscle strains, excessive fatigue, heel or toe blisters, and cold feet.
As a result, many people have a tough time finding a pair of good snow ski boots for an affordable price.
In today’s article, we’ll cover the features to look for in a good touring boot along with our recommendations for the best alpine touring ski boots on the market.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Dynafit TLT8 Expedition CR Boot | Best Overall |  |
1. Dynafit TLT8 Expedition CR Boot
Pros:
- Climbing ability
- Excellent Traction
- Comfortable, warm, and waterproof
- Excellent for all-day walking and longer ski tours
- Made from quality materials
Cons:
- Expensive
- Volume is a bit small
- Not the heel for everyone
This boot has stood the test of time for a reason. It is ideal for crossing large glaciers, carrying heavy loads, and getting you to basecamp. It does take a bit of breaking in, but once it is, it is one of the most comfortable boots out there.
This boot has a super aggressive grip, because the Intuition Liner lets you look down at your skis while wearing the boot!
Its shell is made with polyethersulfide and polyurethane. This material is responsive, durable, and easily repairable. It also keeps your feet warm and dry.
2. SCARPA Maestrale RS Ski Boot
Pros:
- Advanced energy replacement
- Many colors
- Long lifespan
- Durable
- Breathable
The SCARPA Maestrale RS is the most technical boot in SCARPA’s Alpine Touring line of ski boots. It comes with many features that make this boot one of the best in the world.
It comes with a Lower shell incorporating leading boot technologies. The Maestrale boot uses a removable instep pad and an integrated gaiter that makes it easy to open into a step-in shape.
Furthermore, its external carbon fiber heel counter makes it incredibly lightweight and allows for easier movements when hiking. It also ensures the boot is stiff, which is great when skiing.
3. Arc'teryx Procline AR Boot
Pros:
- Good price
- Mountaineering boot suitable for rugged trails
Cons:
- Not for beginners
- Tends to fit smaller
Weighing in at 3 pounds, the Procline AR Alpine Touring Ski Boot is the lightest mountaineering boot in the world. It’s a perfect choice for hard, rocky terrain with complex snow conditions.
This climbing boot is designed for balance and stability. Its flexible sole provides an even weight distribution while keeping your feet warm, dry, and comfortable on icy surfaces.
The Arc'Teryx Procline Alpine Boot features a classic cut-and-sew nubuk leather upper, which offers an ideal blend of lightness and durability. It also has an ErgoFit customization, which allows you to customize this boot for your personal fit.
Conclusion
As the needs of Alpine skiers have changed and more independent skiers want to do technical terrain, specialized ski boots have arrived on the market. Today's touring varieties give skiers the ability to ski safely both up- and down-slope, and even walk uphill with ski boots on. These boots take a lot of design considerations to achieve.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Dynafit TLT8 Expedition CR Boot | Best Overall | |