Spit-Fire – 2013-01-07
Good for Sloppy, Trampled Classic Tracks
Giving these 3 stars, not because of fit, warmth, quality or durability, but because I found their best use is under specific classic ski conditions. "Combi" boots are a compromise. Experienced skate skiers will find the sole too flexible and experienced classic skiers on good groomed tracks will find the upper and ankle too stiff, with entry/exit about the same as skate boots (noticeably more effort than classic boots due to height and stiffness). Like other mid-upper level Rossi boots, these also conform to one's feet with some initial use.Originally got these to try skate skiing knowing I could also use them for classic with the flexible sole, thinking I wouldn't have to change boots to switch between skis skiing techniques. Got true skate boots a short time later and found the stiffer sole easier for skate skiing. Did discover the higher and stiffer ankle on these to be useful under some conditions I encounter frequently enough to justify keeping them. There are no groomed trails where I live necessitating some travel to get to them. We do get enough snow during the Winter for skiing in some local parks, but must break my own trail.
BikerHikerKayakerSkier – 2012-02-25
sizes run small, even for European sizes
These are decent boots, but it took several attempts to get the right size as it seems they run quite small. I have other European size 46 footwear and it is just fine, normally a men's size 12 or so, but in these I had to have a 49! (which after 2 returns to REI, I actually had to get from somewhere else as REI didn't stock them that high)
dbinbend – 2011-12-29
good product for a fair price
I've had these boots for a couple of weeks and have been both skate and classic skiing in a variety of early season snow. They work as well as two previous pairs of combi boots I've had, and I'm very happy with them overall. They provide both comfort and control, and at a reasonable price. The only complaint I have is the quick lace system, which is good in theory but the laces tend to slip over time, so one has to stop and tighten them while on the trail. Just remember to push (forcefully) the button in the direction that you want to move the slider.
