Salomon

X-ALP Explore Alpine Touring Ski Boot - 2020

Developed in conjunction with Arc'teryx's revolutionary Procline, the Salomon X-Alp Explore Ski Boot is breaking trail in the backcountry world. The most forgiving boot in the X-Alp series, these ultralight kicks aren't just for the uber-extreme skimo racers—they make a serious argument for aggressive recreationalists looking to push their limits in the alpine.

It's hard to compete with the X-Alp's 3D cuff rotation—75 degrees fore and aft and 35 degrees laterally give you the natural and efficient feel of a hiking boot while you're powering through arduous approaches or maneuvering tricky kick turns. The waterproof gaiter keeps snow out of your boots while you're breaking trail after a storm, and the Contragrip rubber soles give you traction and security while you're traversing icy, wind-blasted ridges.

These boots shine on techy climbs and ominous traverses, but that's not to say they don't retain Salomon-worthy downhill performance when it's time to rip skins. With a carbon-reinforced Grilamid shell, the X-Alp offers solid power transmission on the descent, so you can confidently rip the hell out of that massive line you put your blood, sweat, and tears into.