The Gist
The 2019 Salomon QST Access 80 W wowed testers with its supremely comfortable feel on the foot—a perfect score for Anatomical Fit & Initial Feel—and said that it was Caprice Classic cruise-worthy, back when the seats were extra cushy and the ride was extra smooth. A perfect fit for the wider foot with a softer touch on the throttle, testers said, and it comes with an easy-to-use cuff release for cross-lot walks and apres shots.
The Fit
Testers applaud the classic Salomon initial fit—one that caresses the foot and leg from the first moment and provides plenty of room where needed for a no-tingle, warm boot experience. Great for a wide forefoot and calf, they said, but the QST Access 80 W manages to hang onto the heel pretty well too. Easy on, easy off, easy buckles—it's the big easy, all around.
Performance
Speaking of easy, testers say the 80 flex is on the mark—and easy—so ideally suited to less aggressive, less skilled, less heavy types. Testers found it surprisingly apt in lateral moves from turn to turn, hailing its quickness and ready turn initiation. They also agreed that the cuff had a tendency to fail to the rear, meaning that it was a bit too easy to get into the backseat. So, lighter and well-balanced skiers are perfectly suited.
Cool Features
The steel and wool microfiber liner construction is used here for optimum warmth and the large hike mode switch makes it easy to flip into strolling stance with gloves on. The Contagrip soles are high-traction affairs for secure stair ascending.
Kudos
Caveats