What more can we say about this year-in, year-out podium performer? Let’s start by thanking Head for not messing with a good thing. Lower profile buckles and a cool matte finish are just about enough newness for us. You don't fix what ain't broke, and the only thing that ever seems to get broken by the Raptor is the egos of less accomplished skiers who don’t have the skills to tap the juice on this perennial powerhouse.
It's tight everywhere, but with enough anatomical shape to avoid hot spots or bone-crushing shell pressure. In fact, it’s surprisingly comfortable considering you're buckling up a weapon of mass construction. The stance angles are spot-on (with rear spoiler removed, testers said). The liner is firm but form fitting and well matched to the shape of the shell's interior. But these are minor details in the story arc. It's great that the Raptor 140 RS fits so well, but even if it didn't, you'd forget about any discomfort once you set them to snow.
Testers describe the Raptor as having “limitless” power transmission to the ski edge. Anything an aggressive front side skier demand the ski do, this boot delivers the orders—stat! Poorly tuned edges feel instantly sharp under the absolute authority of the boot's lateral power. Engage the shin and the ski shovel bends immediately. This boot provides a precision link between expert skiers and their high-performance rides. Our testers were happiest keeping those combinations on smooth surfaces as dampening and forgiveness are not the Raptor's forte.
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