The Scott Freeguide Tour was a new model for our test team, who put the slightly stiffer Freeguide Carbon through the ringer at last year's test. The Tour offers a 120-flex rating and a non-Boa closure liner as the defining features that set it apart from the Carbon--that and a few less bucks on the price tag. The other thing that testers said one gains with the Freeguide Tour is a slightly softer liner construction which put this model at the top of the heap for creature comforts as well as ease of entry and exit. Testers said that for a warmth, comfort and convenience driven backcountry skier there may not be a better option than this one.
The unique "hybrid cabrio" design employs a hinged plastic tongue which allows for unimpeded entry to the boot and then also enhances the forward range of motion when the cuff is released for touring. Testers said the release mechanism is clean and functional and the resulting amount of travel in hike mode is large and smooth--the Freeguide Tour was one of testers' favorites for its comfortable fit and ergonomic strolling stride.
Testers weren't as impressed with the Dual Flex Action Tongue when descending through critical bits of terrain or at demanding speeds. Testers said there was a too-soft feel to the flex with a tendency to collapse if hammered hard. They loved the rearward support of the boot's spine while skiing and also said laterally the boot was stable and strong for controlling the ski on edge. So, their comments trended toward suggesting lighter weight skiers and those with less reliant-on-tongue skiing styles would most favor the Freeguide Tour. Yes, there is that stiffer option available in the Freeguide Carbon if more flexion beef is desired.
Kudos
Caveats