Last season was our first carrying Dalbello and we were psyched by the fit and performance. Dalbello is known for making very comfortable boots, especially the three-piece-shell Krypton freeride boots. They had not historically been known for making the stiff precise boots that technical skiers often prefer. That changed last season with the Scorpion line of Race boots. Of course, the Scorpion was not for everyone, as its aggressive flex and fit were too much for most. This season the new Mantis ladies boots, and Viper men's boots offer power and precision in a user-friendlier package.

The Scorpion race boots fit great and ski like a bat out of hell. They are stripped down 4 buckle overlap race boots with a couple features that really set them apart from the pack. First, they have factory shell punches to get a super snug fit that is still accommodating in key fit areas. Second, they shift the sole a couple millimeters over the inside edge, for a very positive response and super quick transitions. The Scorpion flex numbers seem pretty conservative, so expect a stiff flex regardless of the number.

The Scorpion SR 130 is way more boot than most of us need. It's a stiff race boot with a slightly relaxed 98mm plug fit. It has swappable zeppa boards for easy ramp adjustment, and a solid lug sole for easy lift and grind. The SR 110 is the boot most experts will want to check out. It shares the same design as the 130, but the 110 flex is much better for all mountain skiing. The Scorpion SR 90 J is a race boot for teenagers, and a great choice for lighter adults especially ladies.

The new Viper 12 ID is a perfect all mountain boot for expert skiers. It features a medium 100mm last, 120 flex and a 100% custom moldable ID liner. Viper 10 is softer at 100 flex, and has the heat moldable True Fit liner. Both boots have a snugger fit in the heel and upper cuff than other 100 last boots.

The ladies Mantis 12 ID has a 99mm last, 95 flex, and ID liner. The Mantis 10 is softer (85 flex) and comes with a True Fit liner. Either one is a solid boot for good to great skiers.

Dalbello is best known for the smooth flexing Krypton boots. These boots use a three-piece shell with an external tongue, three buckles, and very nice heat moldable liners. They also have very effective flex adjustments, and lots of fit/stance adjustments. We stock the Rampage ID and the women's Storm ID. Both boots use a 98mm last, for a snug fit, and feature the 100% custom moldable ID liner.

The Axion and Raya lines offer wider fits (103mm last) in a three-piece shell design, but Axion has a fourth buckle. The ladies Raya 10 gets a ski/walk lever, and a softer 85 flex. The Axion 12 has a flex adjuster that keeps it in the 110-120 ranges. Even with adjustable flexes, three-piece tongue boots have a smoother flex that can feel a bit soft a first. Don't worry; you will get used to it in no time, as this buttery flex translates to great balance and absorption from the ankle.

The Boss is also a three-piece shell, three buckle boot, but uses a wider (103mm) last. This relaxed fit coupled with shock absorbing inserts and a wide range of flex adjustment makes it a very park friendly ride.

ID liners are made by Intuition for Dalbello, and offer 100% custom fit in a light and warm package that is easy and quick to mold.