The Gist
The next evolution of the Pinnacle, K2 revises its perennial winner in the On-Off Area category. New this year is a lightweight Pebax plastic construction and a real 4th buckle at cuff top. These changes are successfully integrated into a boot that was already a top edge power scorer. The Pinnacle Pro will appeal to hard-charging area skiers who actually plan to do some skinning.
Fit
It’s a medium that sits on the snug side of the group, testers said. It’s especially compressive at the instep, ankles and navicular bone. The toebox offers quite a bit of breathing width.
Peak pressure points relaxed for most testers after full molding of the Precision Fit Tour Light Intuition liner. The upper cuff wrapped the lower leg well and was nicely padded along the shin. Some testers noticed a bit of spongy "free play" at the beginning of the flex range.
Performance
The entire Pinnacle family skis well and the Pinnacle Pro is no exception. It’s surprisingly strong on edge given its lightweight Pebax construction, testers said. They hammered the Pinnacle Pro everywhere they go at Solitude and couldn't ever push it to edge grip failure. It was a deep trencher through crud and crust. A few of our bigger, heavier testers thought that the flex felt softer than 130 and that it maxed out under heavy load.
Cool Features
Testers continue to validate the Synchro Interlock hike mechanism design. It’s easy is to use and has a huge range of motion. It’s smooth both forward and backward making for efficient skinning and hiking. Rockered Vibram soles are a newly-available option this year. The toe and heel lugs have integrated tech fittings making the boot compatible with both alpine and tech bindings. That’s the mark of a true On-Off Area performer.
Kudos
Caveats