The Gist
Is the 2018 Tecnica Zero G Guide Pro a true backcountry boot or a lightweight On-Off Area boot? Testers say that it could be both. Certainly it's a legit BC tourer, all Dynafit certified low-tech'd with a lightweight Grilamid plastic lower boot, a similarly weight-conscious Triax 3.0 (polypropylene) cuff and a 215 gram Palau liner, but testers say it rips almost as hard on the descent as beefier brother Cochise Pro 130. Could be pretty sweet for the guy who wants to buy all the backcountry kit but actually not stray too far from the lift—or it could serve the cardiovascular crusher who actually knows how to ski when he gets to the top. Either way we call this one a winner!
The Fit
Testers gave the lower boot evenly narrow-mediumish scores, which is just about what you should expect from a 99 mm last. They loved the glove-like initial fit, wrapping all the right curves of the foot, instep and lower leg shaft. They said the Palau liner was soft enough for a comfy initial fit but still firm enough for containment, not spongy like many full-thermo liners. They did mention some shearing of the liner within the shell, which should be improved after thermo-molding the liner to better seat into the shell's interior.
Performance
Testers had zero complaints about the Zero G's on-snow acumen. They ripped pow, crushed crud, even arced groomers. Skinny skis, fat skis alike, all smiles. Uphill performance was similarly aces, with good range of motion scores and unanimous praise for the simple metal-on-metal cuff release mechanism.
Cool Features
As with the Cochise Pro 130 and Cochise 120, the Zero G line-up features the Custom Adaptive Shape (C.A.S.) shell, which is dimpled in common trouble zones to make heat stretching easier, more defined and better lasting. The Zero G range comes with Dynafit-certified tech fittings and rockered ISO 9523 soles (A.T. or tech bindings required), though a set of alpine soles is available as an accessory purchase. Lightweight Lift Lock buckles are sweet for locking them open for entry and exit or while touring—no accidental re-latching.
Kudos
Caveats