The new Alltrack 130 HV BOA marks an interesting new approach for Rossignol's crossover alpine-freeride line. It incorporates the easy entry technology pioneered in the uber-easy-on Vizion boots to allow for a combined ease of entry with a cuff-releasing hike feature--this, with the overriding goal of maintaining alpine-level, 130-tier performance standards. Our testers said mission accomplished on all fronts.
First, testers want to talk about the high-volume fit found in the Alltrack 130 HV BOA--they say its plush and warm and comfortably wrapped around all contours. They loved the 102mm-style room for the toes, forefoot, instep and calf (enough for big, solid guys) but they appreciated a little more control in the fit for the ankles and heel. Testers spent a lot of time discussing the wooly, nappy liner material that felt good against the sock and struck a nice balance between smooth and grippy--just enough glide for a supremely easy entry (enhanced by the rearward-opening cuff technology) but enough friction on the foot and leg to keep things locked-in during aggressive skiing.
There was some skepticism about the easy-entry walk mode of the Access category Vizion boots mission-creeping its way into the strong-descending All-Mountain Traditional test category, but it didn't take long for the Alltrack 130 HV BOA to dispel those concerns. Testers loved how strong it felt while keeping a ski on edge through tricky snow at speed but they said it was light on the foot and pretty agile for a wide ride as well. They appreciated the stability offered by the polyurethane shell but felt it paired well with the lighter and snappy feeling polyolefin cuff. Testers felt the 130 flex was up to snuff for bigger skiers who might find themselves in the HV model but they felt the tongue cushioning and ergonomic flex feel offered plenty of room for lighter weight skiers to get on board.
The BOA seemed to suit the nature of this boot--easy to use in all respects, they said, from entry, to closure, to skiing and possibly hiking or apres-partying. The BOA reel was a convenient way to close up shop around the meaty hoof, testers said, and they noted that it had no negative bearing on the way the boot went on or came off. They thought a little pink on the knob worked with the grey and yellow look, too.
Kudos
Caveats