This year at our boot test we instituted two different test parameters for overall fit—one for the “dry” fit or initial try-on and then another for the “dynamic” or on-snow fit. We did this because sometimes a boot that fits great in the shop may not fit so well once it’s clamped into bindings and pushed around. The best boots fit great, both ways. The Dalbello Veloce Space 110’s initial fit scores were high, but they actually improved in the on-snow test. This fit anecdote starts to tell the story about the Veloce Space 110—it’s understated in both flex and in price, but once testers got this boot on snow they realized it carries a pretty big stick, even if it walks softly (and yes, it has a walk mode too). One tester called it the sleeper ripper bargain of the test.
We had to ask Dalbello what the Space naming scheme is all about—we figured it could have to do with having space where you need it, which the Veloce Space 110 has, in the toebox and forefoot zones especially. On the flip side, testers said it was snug where it needed to be too, in the heel and ankle pockets, where it was performance snug for direct control of the ski but not pinchy for the average volume foot. Testers loved the well-shaped and nicely cushioned transition from the instep up into the shin and they said the flex feel was both even against the leg and comfy but also firmer in flex than the 110 labeling—most said it skied at a performance level on par with most 120-flex boots.
Many of our testers start testing a boot assuming it’s a perfect 10.0, and then subtract demerits as they find those dealbreakers, be they in fit, flex feel, stance or performance. Testers didn’t apply too many deductions to the Veloce Space 110. They gave its entry a super-easy double thumbs up, They loved the ease of the lower shell’s BOA-spooled closure and the straightforward wrap of the cuff via two standard buckles. They said its stance was neutral and comfortable and they liked the simple cuff release for a short boot-pack attack or an apres ski chillax.
Two veteran testers almost mirrored each other in their wrap-ups. One said “I gave this boot a perfect score--Dalbello has absolutely nailed it. This 110 does feel like a strong 120 though.” And the other echoed, “Super convenient, easy entry, with a lower shell BOA and simple buckles on top--adds up to a winner for me! Skis very strong for a 110-flex.”
Kudos