We allowed each brand an extra model in a category of their choice this year provided the bonus entry was a softer, less-expensive model. We showed no mercy, however, and threw these softer boots in with the rugged, general population in whichever category they landed. We figured they'd probably get crushed by the competition and we'd cycle them into a sidebar or small feature somewhere (which we've done).
The Adapt Edge 110 was Head's soft entry, and it was the only such boot to make the medal cut for a print review in these pages. It was also the winner for best entry and exit in this category; it is probably the easiest-on overlap shell boot in our entire test.
Its numbers do lie a little bit. It fits more like a 104mm last, with massive amounts of room throughout the lower boot and an open for business boot top that will let big calves waltz through the door all day long. Very high volume feet are required to pack its storage space full but that's not to say it isn't a good option for more average width feet that can't tolerate much squeeze without going numb.
Its 110 flex index may be a little overstated. Our testers say it's a softie, but one that doesn’t collapse under stress when flexed. It maintains a progressive feel with an eventual stopping point but it's definitely not for skiers who crush it hard initiating their turns. Skiers who move mainly laterally or have a lighter touch on the tongue will love how it performs.
Our testers were stunned by how well the Adapt Edge held its own when punching with the big boys in this competitive group . It is stable at speed and has sufficient power transmission to the edge. We skied it all over the mountain and found it uncharacteristically good given its stiffness and price.
Kudos
Caveats