What To Look For
Though they started as a mountain boot company in 1960, by the 1970s, Tecnica had jumped into the ski boot market and made the first bi-injected plastic ski boot. Tecnica makes six "series" boots for adults plus a junior series. In each series are models designed for racing, high performance, performance and sport performance. Many are also available in low-volume or high-volume feet. The Dragon is Tecnica's ultimate performance line for hard-charging experts and racers. The Phoenix is another high-performance line that has a more comfort-oriented fit. The Mega is an easy-on boot with a comfort fit for all-day skiing. The Diablo is a race-performance boot, while the Attiva is designed for women, and incorporates lower calves, narrower heels and better warmth. The Agent is an all-around line. Tecnica also makes a Race Pro boot for juniors.
Common Pitfalls
While Tecnica makes boots for high-volume and wider-volume feet, it specializes in low-volume, race-oriented fits. Make sure when trying on a Tecnica boot that you have one that matches your foot profile or you might dismiss a great boot because you have the wrong size.
Where To Buy
Tecnica online has a dealer locator. Tecnica boots are available in most good ski shops, and by shopping locally, you can try on a variety of boots to get the best match and fit.
Cost
Tecnica ski boots range in price from $300 for recreational models to $800 for race performance models such as the Dragon as of September 2009.
Insider Tips
Once you have the proper length and width ski boot, you can further customize the fit at a specialty ski shop by adding a custom liner or custom footbeds. If there are any hot spots where your foot rubs against the shell, the ski techs can often shape the boot by punching out the shell.
