The basis for my experience is actually the predecessor model, the V, with which I have ascended 1.2 million vertical for skiing, plus some lift-served “victory laps” skiing after dawn patrol.
However, my impression is that the VI is really more of a V.ii since the only difference seems to be extending the height and coverage (in the rear) of the integrated zippered gaiter.
Which is about the only conceivable improvement I could think of for the V!
I have a lengthy tome on the Stratos V that can be accessed via the Tiny Url of StratosV.
Relatively briefly though:
- Fit is slender overall. I have a C width foot, size 26 as measured by an alpine downhill boot technician, but with one foot a smidgen longer, meaning that a size 26 often requires some punching or other modifications. In the V, the size 27 fits me absolutely perfectly. I suspect that anyone with a foot that is actually 27cm long and a D width would have trouble fitting into a size 27 V/VI!
- Shell feels low to the ground and provides excellent feel for tricky bootpacks.
- Skinning performance is obviously great, and skiing performance is (perhaps not so obviously) also great.
- Durability is good as long as you have the attention (especially regarding the various fasteners) and skill (especially for improvising, and also digging deep down into your spare parts bins) to nip all sorts of little problems in the bud (i.e., before they become big problems). So at 1.2 million vertical, my pair is still perfect, especially the rivets/pivots for the upper cuff, which are still as tight as new.
La Sportiva Stratos VI Boot
Dedicated ski-mountaineering racers need a boot as serious as their ambitions, allowing them to perform at the absolute highest levels without restriction. With its masterful construction, exceptional performance, and meticulous attention to detail, the Stratos VI is such a boot.
Improving and building upon prior generations of Stratos boots, the Stratos VI uses a traditional single lever and cord attachment system for the ski/walk mechanism, making for quick and efficient transitions. While the Stratos VI will happily pair with just about any race binding, the S4 Toe Inserts were designed in collaboration with Ski Trab, facilitating faster entry into the Titan toe piece, and helping save valuable time on the race course. For icy booters and ridgelines, the Vibram rubber outsole and toe/heel construction comply with ISMF regulations, providing ample traction and allowing for the use of fully automatic crampons if necessary. The carbon construction is designed with weight savings in mind and when combined with an 80° range of motion, the Stratos VI will allow you to ascend toward the stratosphere with haste. For rough race course descents, the dampening insert acts to reduce vibrations transmitted to the shell while the customizable Ultralon foam liner helps provide a secure heel hold, allowing you to pin it to the finish line with confidence.
The Stratos VI was built to its own standard of perfection, learning from prior generations, and is sure to set a new standard for the next generation of race boots.
- S4 inserts were designed in collaboration with Ski Trab, helping save time when going all-Italian.
- Reinforced carbon fiber cuff and shell have been optimized for weight savings.
- 80° range of motion allows for efficient travel uphill.
- Two forward lean positions, 10°, and 19°, allow you to choose your ideal setting.
- Ergal Aluminum walk lever with recycled cord makes the system durable, minimalistic, and a little more earth friendly!
- Bushings with the Anti Wear System make the cuff rotation almost frictionless.
- Vibram Litebase outsole provides excellent traction and is ISMF compliant.
- Waterproof and abrasion-resistant Schoeller Stretch Gaiter keeps snow on the race course and out of your boots.
- Full crampon compatibility with the ISMF-compliant toe and heel construction.
- Narrowed and tapered shape to further cut out materials and weight.
| Specifications | |
|
Weight |
539g [26.5] |
| Weight (pair) | 1078g [26.5] |
|
|
1 Ergal Aluminum Stratos Lever & Recycled Lace |
|
Boot Sole |
273mm [26.5] |
|
Binding |
Tech only |
|
Cuff |
80° |
|
Forward |
10°, -19° |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Carbon fiber & Rnew bio-based cuff, carbon fiber & pebax lower |
|
|
Ultralon Bikini Liner |
|
|
Vibram® Litebase Rubber |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Rando racing, speed touring |
| Notes | Cuts weight and sticks to mastercrafted essentials |
| Bottom Line | Sets a new standard for race boots |
| Compare to other Race Boots | |
