Choosing the right ski boots is crucial for performance, comfort, and overall enjoyment on the slopes. Salomon offers a range of men's ski boots designed to cater to different skill levels and preferences. This article provides a detailed review of two popular models: the Salomon S/Pro Alpha 130 EL and the Salomon S/Pro Supra Dual Boa 120.
Salomon S/Pro Alpha 130 EL Review
The Salomon S/Pro Alpha 130 EL has consistently impressed testers with its exceptional combination of a snug fit and uncompromising downhill performance. This boot offers a silky, well-padded feel against the sock, ensuring comfort from the moment you slide it on until the end of the day.
Testers noted that the fit is "TIGHT" yet "COMFY," a seemingly contradictory but accurate description. The boot manages to hold the foot securely while simultaneously providing a caressing feel. There were no mentions of hot spots, and testers praised how well the Alpha contoured over the top of the foot, transitioning smoothly through the instep and up the leg shaft against the shin.
This midfoot to shin transition is considered one of the best ever felt in a narrow, 130-flex boot. Despite its comfort, the S/Pro Alpha 130 doesn't compromise on power. It received a perfect 5.00 score for power on edge and a 4.89 for quickness.
Testers noted a slight inside-edge lateral stance, which translates to excellent trenching power but can create a slightly hooky feel in soft snow. However, this can be easily adjusted using the elliptical, metal-to-metal cuff adjustment mechanism.
Read also: Is the Salomon Villain right for you?
SALOMON'S NEW SKI BOOT | What's Inside the S Pro Alpha
Key features appreciated by bootfitters include the moldable Talyn liner tongue and fully dismantleable buckle and cuff attachment hardware. The placement of the instep buckle closer to the actual instep, with additional adjustment, is also a plus. The 50mm cam buckle power strap effectively secures the boot.
Salomon S/Pro Supra Dual Boa 120 Review
The Salomon S/Pro Supra Dual Boa 120 aims to blend a modern, Boa-focused design with a flex suitable for advanced skiers. However, it leans more towards high-intermediate skiers who want advanced technology without the demanding stiffness of a performance boot.
The Supra’s plush liner, relatively soft shell, and medium-volume last make it feel approachable right out of the box. The two-Boa system offers excellent adjustability, though it may not provide the same response as a hard-charging boot.
Despite its 120 flex rating, the S/Pro Supra Dual Boa 120 felt underbuilt for high-speed carving. It's smooth and easygoing but not particularly confidence-inspiring when pushed hard. The flex ramps up too quickly, and instead of offering progressive resistance, it tends to give way. However, this forgiving quality can be attractive to intermediate skiers who are still perfecting their turns and appreciate the fine-tuning fit offered by the two Boa dials.
In ungroomed snow, the Supra’s plushness is a strength, muting harsh snow and making uneven terrain feel less punishing. There’s no jarring feedback throughout the boot, making it suitable for long off-piste runs, especially for those still learning to navigate challenging snow conditions.
Read also: Choosing the Right Salomon Snowboard
Comfort is a priority with the Supra, thanks to its middle-of-the-road 100-millimeter last and plush liner. The polyurethane shell feels less rigid and molds more easily than high-end overlap designs, which enhances comfort but reduces stability and power transfer. The dual Boa dials provide fine-grained control over pressure at both the cuff and forefoot, allowing for adjustments based on snow conditions and activity levels.
SALOMON'S NEW SKI BOOT | What's Inside the S Pro Alpha
Build quality on the Supra is solid, with durable Boa dials and a high-quality shell material. The GripWalk soles are replaceable, adding to the boot's longevity. The Supra is partly made from recycled materials.
Fit and Customization
The Supra’s 100-millimeter last should fit average feet well, but those with wider feet may require liner swaps or bootfitting. The shell and liner are both heat-moldable, allowing bootfitters to alleviate any discomfort. However, it only comes in a 100mm last, and not a low- or high-volume version like the Tecnica Mach1 series.
Pros and Cons of the Salomon S/Pro Supra Dual Boa 120
- Pros:
- Plush liner is comfortable for all-day wear.
- 100-millimeter last strikes a good balance between space and performance.
- High-quality construction.
- Excellent adjustability with dual Boa dials.
- Cons:
- Skis softer than its stated 120 flex.
- Significant investment for a boot that may be outgrown.
- Dual Boa collection only available in a single width.
Alternatives to Consider
- K2 Cortex 130 Zonal Boa: A more powerful boot built for aggressive skiers who want precision and feedback.
- Lange Shadow 120 MV: An even more comfortable option with an uber-plush liner, ideal for those prioritizing comfort.
Key Features Comparison
Here's a table summarizing the key features and benefits of each boot:
| Feature | Salomon S/Pro Alpha 130 EL | Salomon S/Pro Supra Dual Boa 120 |
|---|---|---|
| Flex | 130 | 120 |
| Fit | Narrow | Medium Volume |
| Performance | High-performance, excellent power transfer | Comfort-focused, suitable for intermediate skiers |
| Adjustability | Cuff adjustment mechanism | Dual Boa system |
| Comfort | Silky, well-padded liner | Plush liner, forgiving feel |
| Build Quality | Durable, dismantleable hardware | Solid, replaceable GripWalk soles |
Read also: Ace Snowboard Performance