La Sportiva Raceborg II Boot
While you should never compare yourself to others, you can definitely compare the Raceborg II against its predecessor. Losing the cable-actuated ski/walk mechanism and instead using a more traditional design, the Raceborg II is quick to transition and gains reliability relative to its forebear. The 75° range of motion and light carbon fiber cuff make for an excellent climbing platform while the rigidity of the carbon fiber cuff keeps the boot stable for the downhill. Because La Sportiva doesn’t believe in “analysis paralysis,” the Raceborg II has four forward lean options at 14°, 16°, 18°, and 19°, letting you fiddle to find the “ideal” setting till your heart’s content. On top of this, the Grilamid lower shell can be punched and stretched, offering customization to those with difficult feet. Finally, the Spider Ratchet Lacing system, while not for those suffering from arachnophobia, allows the instep strap to evenly distribute pressure over the top of the lower shell, helping secure the foot for demanding descents. Terminating the competition, the Raceborg II allows you to attack the uphill with reckless abandon while still offering confidence-inspiring downhill performance. You can almost hear the boot saying, "Come with me if you want to win."
- Two-piece Ultralon liner offers customization and comfort.
- Ergal aluminum ski walk lever and lace attachment across the cuff are quick and reliable.
- Spider Rachet lacing system provides even tension across the instep, making for a comfortably snug fit.
- 75° of motion (35° back / 40° front) will make the skin track fly by.
- Four forward lean positions of 14°, 16°, 18°, and 19° allows for individualized customization.
- La Sportiva Racegrip sole is ISMF compliant and provides reliable traction in icy spots.
- Stretch gaiter is abrasion and water-resistant, keeping the snow out of your boots.
- Toe and heel molding is compatible with most automatic crampons.
- S4 EVO Inserts help with quick step-in to Ski Trab bindings.
| Specifications | |
|
Weight |
734g [27.0] 758g [28.0] |
| Weight (pair) | 1468g [27.0] 1516g [28.0] |
|
|
2 |
|
Boot Sole |
277mm [25.5/26] 287mm [26.5/27] 297mm [27.5/28] 307mm [28.5/29] |
|
Binding |
Tech only |
|
Cuff |
75° |
|
Forward |
14°, 16°, 18°, 19° |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Grilamid shell, Carbon Fiber & Grilamid cuff |
|
|
Two piece Ultralon |
|
|
Racegrip |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Rando racing, speed touring |
| Notes | Grilamid lower is receptive to boot work if need be |
| Bottom Line | Excellent update to an excellent boot |
| Compare to other Race Boots | |
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Questions & Reviews
While I have not skied in them, I can give you some impressions from trying them on side by side. The Raceborg is slightly wider around the forefoot than the Alien, and a little tighter around the ankle. It's possible that it would give you a bit better heel hold. I do think that the lower closure of the Raceborg holds the foot in the heel pocket a little better. In terms of instep volume, they are very comparable.
In terms of the ski mode, the Alien is stiffer and the full tongue feels a bit more supportive. The Raceborg feels a bit more progressive, it bows out a little more around the ankle when you flex into it.
I ordered Racetrons II so I'll give them probably a try once they arrive and if initial fit will be OK. I also hope that due to foam that goes around the upper it will be more comfortable there as all border points between back foam / tongue were problematic for me.
I'll do some update here after initial usage
Also, can you include a pic of the liner? Not sure I can picture what the 2 piece liner looks like?
Thanks!
As you know, the Alien 3.0 are Very Stiff, and the definition of a Non Progressive boot. With a regular Grilamid lower shell, you will have a softer and more progressive flex. In short, will be easier to ski.
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