Crispi Diablo Free Ride AT Ski Boot - 2005 BCS

alpine support with walk mode and a vibramesque sole- it doesn't get any better than this...
I have used this boot approx 100 days/ yr in the AK bc the last 2 years. I use it for snowmachine access skiing on a pair of EP pros. Can't beat it for support and stiffness, and I wouldn't be able to ride my sled to all the sicky lines without the walk mode feature and the vibramesque sole.

I bought these boots to drive the new BD Zealot ski (110mm underfoot). They are great in the walk mode and very comfortable on the uphill. They perform nearly as well as an alpine boot on the downhill, even pushing a ski as big as the Zealot.

I have a narrow heel and a wide forefoot, and this boot fit great.

I used to ski the Scarpa Denali, and although that is also a great boot, I've got to say that the Diablo is the better of the two.

I've tried a couple of the other 'freeride' oriented AT boots out there and Crispi has hit the nail on the head with this one and blown the others out of the water. Well, you have to qualify that statement of course: every boot is only right for the foot that it fits.

Performance: I've taken these on two short day tours, both involving 2-3 hours of climbing followed by a long big-mountain style descent. The Diablos have an exceptionally comfortable walk mode. Tons of flex and they just feel great. They are lightweight for a 'freeride' boot and while not as light as some, they are much lighter than any alpine boot. Lock these things forward into the most-aggressive forward lean position, snap down the ski mode, and you've got a serious boot that contends with alpine boots for stability and confidence while skiing. I felt confident making turns as big as I do at Snowbird's Upper Cirque on these things (i.e., 40m radius turns).

Fit: Medium. The forefoot/toebox is pretty wide, but you can reduce the volume with the buckle over your arch. The heel pocket is nice and tight though. I have a narrow foot, so most AT boots are too wide for me, but this one has worked better than any I've tried (Garmont, Scarpa). The liner has a plush inner lining, and is super comfortable. It molds easily once heated. It does seem to pack out rather easily however.

My ancient Nordica TR 7's had given up the ghost but I just couldn't get comfortable in either Scarpa or Garmont boots, enter Crispi. After using the tele boot version last year with perfect comfort and control I took the risk and ordered these on line. They arrived as promised and skied perfectly, first day yo-yo skiing with no pain great control and a big smile. I'm 230 lbs and 6ft 1 skiing K2 world piste with Naxo bindings. They are great try some.