Alpina returned to the boot test with a feature-laden utility vehicle in the Elite Stealth, flagship model of the 5 boot line-up descending from 130 down to 80 flex. Veteran testers found this to be the best fitting and skiing of any Alpina boot they'd tested–ever.
This 102mm fits a little more snug than expected in the lower boot, with testers noting a shorter-than-norm length fit and a medium-tight fit in the toebox and forefoot. The 130 offers the densest liner construction of the line, and fits on the more snug end of the Elite Stealth range's spectrum. Softer models will offer a more relaxed fit.
Testers liked the easy to actuate hike mode lever (ski pole tip works!) and slotted the hike modality as convenience feature for line-standing and parking lot strolling as the range is somewhat limited and the boot slightly heavier than most hike mode models. This is a luxury cruising unit and as such is proud to offer an integrated heater system--all pre-wired in a thin mylar wrap around the liner's toebox—all you gotta do is cough up the extra 100-bucks for the battery pack and you're cookin'!
Testers liked the predictable-reliable roll edge to edge of the Elite Stealth (if a little edgier than most)—good for sneaking up on unsuspecting pow stashes or just grooving the groomed. Quickness scores were subdued and a few testers cited fore-aft stance and a lack of rearward support—but majority opinion called it an able all-mountain cruiser (with a heater!).
Kudos
Caveats