The Maestrale RS returned to excel at this year's boot test by displaying both power and convenience in a well-balanced backcountry boot. Testers liked the combination of the Mirage Pro hike mode's simplicity of design and bombproof connection between upper and lower with its no-brainer ease of use. They also liked that the stiffer cuff connection was paired with a revised, burlier powerstrap for a more solid-feeling flex and better matched fit along the shin.
While the test team mainly approved of the Maestrale's precise transmission of energy to the ski for performance downhill operations and its huge and un-restricted touring range of motion, they noted smaller touches that also pumped up convenience scores—like the oversized buckles for gloves-on adjustments and the powerstrap's cutaway grab-loop that made for easy readjustment on the fly.
As with many of the Backcountry category entries, testers said the Maestrale RS fits a bit more snug through the forefoot than the 101mm rating would suggest, and snug through the instep as well, favoring medium- to lower-volume foot types. One thing to note is that Scarpa's sizing scheme breaks shells on the half-size. For example the 26.5 and 27.0 share the same shell and boot sole length. We're always fans of supporting your brick-and-mortar bootfitting specialist, but trying on the Maestrale to ensure you're getting the right size is a smart move.
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