The manual and the internet suggest that there are four forward lean positions available. The two positions on the base of the lever are obvious to me, but I can't figure out the other way to adjust the forward lean. Credit to the picture is to the wildsnow review of these boots and the caption says "Two distinct positions are available for the bolt to slot through, but flit the pivot piece around and you can access two more." The What is the pivot piece? Is that the piece the bolt is slotting through? If so how do you flit it around? The translated manual says "Two other positions could be obtain by rotating the base." Also not sure what the "base" is or how you'd rotate it around.
My ultimate question is how do you maximize the forward lean on these boots?
Pierre Gignoux Black Boot
While escargot, crème brulee, croissants, and creamy camembert are wonderful, no list of French delicacies would be complete without mentioning the Pierre Gignoux Black. Handcrafted deep in the French Alps, each and every boot is meticulously built, ensuring quality and performance. With its athletic weight, the Black will have you wondering if it's time to replace the batteries in your scale. Rest assured, though, the batteries in your scale are just fine, the Black boot is really just that light! Compared to the race-specific Dynafit DNA by Pierre Gignoux, the Black features a full Palau liner and a medium gaiter to keep your feet warm and dry, which is quite welcome during a big day of powder harvesting. The nearly frictionless range of motion encourages speedy ascents while the 2-in-1 locking system encourages equally quick transitions while providing a secure platform for descending. The Internal Lacing System and velcro instep strap offer a precise fit, which is probably why Kilian Jornet uses these as his weapon of choice when executing flawless hop-turns down the steepest faces in Europe. As the most versatile boot in the Pierre Gignoux range, the Black is equally comfortable on the race course as it is doing 15K days. With its exquisite construction and well-rounded nature, you'll be happy to have brought home the Black Boot by Pierre Gignoux.
- Carbon shell was meticulously built in the French Alps, ensuring quality and performance.
- Medium gaiter keeps out unwanted snow, allowing your feet to remain dry and comfortable.
- Black Sole is durable and provides confident traction on icy ridgelines.
- Palau liner is comfortable and customizable, providing an individualized fit.
- Internal Lacing System and an Instep strap provide a precise fit for confident skiing.
- 2-in-1 locking system allows for quick transitions and provides a secure platform for the descending.
- 26, 26.5, 27, and 27.5 are single sizes with unique boot sole lengths.
| Specifications | |
|
Weight |
681g [27.5] |
| Weight (pair) | 1362g [27.5] |
|
|
One upper with a single throw |
|
Boot Sole |
248mm [23.0] 259mm [24.0] 269mm [25.0] 279mm [26.0] 284mm [26.5] 289mm [27.0] 294mm [27.5] 299mm [28.0] 309mm [29.0] 320mm [30.0] |
|
Binding |
Tech only |
|
Cuff |
108° |
|
Forward |
12, 18 |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Carbon fiber |
|
|
Palau |
|
|
Black Sole |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Big days on light skis |
| Notes | Race boot with a full liner |
| Bottom Line | Speed |
| Compare to other Race Boots | |
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Questions & Reviews
3/17/2025
3/17/2025
Hi Todd,
I believe that the "pivot point" here is the piece that the bolt slots through, which the lever pivots around. It has two holes for two different positions. If you take this piece off and flip it, you will have two new, unique positions, including one that offers significantly more forward lean.
I believe that the "pivot point" here is the piece that the bolt slots through, which the lever pivots around. It has two holes for two different positions. If you take this piece off and flip it, you will have two new, unique positions, including one that offers significantly more forward lean.
3/17/2025
Thanks for clarifying! I could not figure out how to take off the "pivot point" by looking at the back of the boot. Turns out I'm dumb and didn't look at the inside of the cuff until you confirmed that's the piece to move!
For anyone as thick as I am, the "pivot point" is held onto the cuff by two bolts (t20 star bit). Photo attached. For anyone else looking at these boots, there are four forward lean angles. The manual suggests the angles are 19, 17, 15, 13 degrees.
For anyone as thick as I am, the "pivot point" is held onto the cuff by two bolts (t20 star bit). Photo attached. For anyone else looking at these boots, there are four forward lean angles. The manual suggests the angles are 19, 17, 15, 13 degrees.
Answer this question:
Foot length measures 27.5 cm, I use size 28 for these. Length is fine, I would consider a 28.5 if it was an option for some extra width. For beef resort racing boots and beef touring boots I use Fischer boots in size 26.5. Sized these more like I would a trail runner; take the insole out, make sure your foot fits on the insole, if your foot fits on the insole, and the insole fits in the boot/shoe, your foot fits in the boot/shoe. I get a touch of pressure on the sides of my feet, but the liner makes up for it and if the pressure bothers me I loosen the laces.
These boots are legit. They ski really well, although I've only used these with the Trab Gara WC flex 70 ski, not anything wider under foot. Stiff enough to actually ski. Most of the time I keep the top strap somewhat loose and let the cord and liner foam provide some "progressive flex" while skiing. In walk mode, flexible enough to drive your car so you can save some time on some before-work skinning.
I've had these one season, using 4+ times a week mostly resort skinning, but also backcountry and multi-days. The only durability issue I've had is that, because I have cankles, the zipper separated from the gaiter on one boot. This was an easy at-home fix though using some aquaseal, masking tape over the zipper, and a couple popsicle sticks to apply even pressure provided by some clamps and binder clips. With how light this boot is, the small production volume nature, and really how well they ski and skin, I still give them 5 stars.
These are maybe the warmest ski boots I've ever had. In part because they don't cut off the circulation to my foot, but also because of the carbon construction. Thats great, but that also means that for extended uphill use in somewhat warm temps your foot will be soaked.
No problem with "heel hold" on these. I think in part due to my ski style. The only thing I notice is that if I don't tighten the strap over the top of my foot enough, my foot moves more within the boot while skinning and I'm more likely to get abrasions on my heel. Pre-taping my heel, and quickly retightening if necessary solves this issue, so not a big deal.
Only thing I wish was that there was some accessory that could protect the lower while kicking toes into scree in the spring. If that was the case I would only consider PG boots for BC skiing, I'm that impressed. Skis great, easy enough to put on after spending the night at ~0F, warm, comfortable, walks like a shoe.
These boots are legit. They ski really well, although I've only used these with the Trab Gara WC flex 70 ski, not anything wider under foot. Stiff enough to actually ski. Most of the time I keep the top strap somewhat loose and let the cord and liner foam provide some "progressive flex" while skiing. In walk mode, flexible enough to drive your car so you can save some time on some before-work skinning.
I've had these one season, using 4+ times a week mostly resort skinning, but also backcountry and multi-days. The only durability issue I've had is that, because I have cankles, the zipper separated from the gaiter on one boot. This was an easy at-home fix though using some aquaseal, masking tape over the zipper, and a couple popsicle sticks to apply even pressure provided by some clamps and binder clips. With how light this boot is, the small production volume nature, and really how well they ski and skin, I still give them 5 stars.
These are maybe the warmest ski boots I've ever had. In part because they don't cut off the circulation to my foot, but also because of the carbon construction. Thats great, but that also means that for extended uphill use in somewhat warm temps your foot will be soaked.
No problem with "heel hold" on these. I think in part due to my ski style. The only thing I notice is that if I don't tighten the strap over the top of my foot enough, my foot moves more within the boot while skinning and I'm more likely to get abrasions on my heel. Pre-taping my heel, and quickly retightening if necessary solves this issue, so not a big deal.
Only thing I wish was that there was some accessory that could protect the lower while kicking toes into scree in the spring. If that was the case I would only consider PG boots for BC skiing, I'm that impressed. Skis great, easy enough to put on after spending the night at ~0F, warm, comfortable, walks like a shoe.
4/28/2024
Compact liners easy to keep in your bag overnight, after slipping them back in the shells the boots are real quick to put back on.
8/27/2024
Hi Scott - Do you know the width of your foot? My foot is 273x107 and I’m trying to decide between 27.5 and 28.
8/30/2024
I think it's 105/110 mm. I ended up sizing up 1/2 size over what the PG boot fitting tool on their site gave me
Comment on this review:
3/11/2024
Martin
(downright abused product)
Vive la chaussure noire! I took a chance and ordered these sight unseen direct from PG, because no-one in the US had them in stock in size 30. That was a bit risky, since return shipping would have been EUR 100 in each direction, but I needn't have worried. Right out of the box they were a near-perfect fit to my awkward feet (wide in front, low arches, narrow heels, bony ankles). My only change was to replace the stock insoles with a more supportive pair. Everything that Skimo.co says about comfort, light weight, range of motion, quick transitions and downhill control is true.
A few minor points:
- The soles don't have a mid-point marking.
- The BSL is a bit misleading. My PGs fit into exactly the same bindings as my old Dynafit TLT6s, even though the PG's BSL is 7mm shorter. That's because the PG's front pin inserts are much closer to the boot's front edge.
- If you want to attach a leash you'll have to get creative.
A few minor points:
- The soles don't have a mid-point marking.
- The BSL is a bit misleading. My PGs fit into exactly the same bindings as my old Dynafit TLT6s, even though the PG's BSL is 7mm shorter. That's because the PG's front pin inserts are much closer to the boot's front edge.
- If you want to attach a leash you'll have to get creative.
10/23/2024
Hi Martin! Looking to purchase these boots soon, likely in a 30. What are your foot dimensions? My feet are ~ 290mm x 12mm; just want to make sure I'm not sizing up too much with a 30.
10/23/2024
@Tate K: Do you mean 120 mm wide? You may be out of luck. I used PG's online size guide at https://pierregignoux.fr/en/size-guide/, which in my case (290 x 110 mm) suggested size 30, but for widths greater than 115 mm it says (en français) "sorry, we don't have a boot for your size".
10/23/2024
Ah, got it, thank you! I tried on a friend's 290 and the width didn't feel too limiting up front. Are you using the Black liners or the race liners (with cuff padding)? I'd be curious how differently those liners affect total volume (not that there's much room to play around with!)
10/23/2024
@Tate K: Sorry, I can't comment on the race liner. I'm using the regular Black liner, which worked fine for me once I replaced the insoles, even without being heat-molded.
Comment on this review:
12/19/2023
In case it's helpful to anyone, I thought I'd share my experience with PG boot sizing for a wider foot. My foot measures around 103/104mm forefoot width, so I've had trouble finding a pair of race boots that are comfortable without being sloppy.
While I'm normally a 27, I recently bought the PG Race 400 Pro in a size 27.5 - which is the same last as this PG Black boot, just minus the taller cuff. The way I arrived at this size choice was by emailing PG directly, who recommended the half size up for additional comfort after receiving my measurements.
At the same time, just to be sure, I also ordered the Black in a size 27. The Black fit, albeit at the much tighter end of a race fit. The Race Pro in 27.5, on the other hand, fits me like a glove and is the happiest my feet have ever been in ski boots.
In short, what everyone says about PG boots - namely that they are designed with a wider, more anatomical last in mind, is spot on. And yeah, they do have a lower volume (vertically) forefoot area, but this just adds to the amount of control they offer, unlike Scarpa and Atomic boots which, for me, have too much volume even with the boa cranked all the way down.
While I'm normally a 27, I recently bought the PG Race 400 Pro in a size 27.5 - which is the same last as this PG Black boot, just minus the taller cuff. The way I arrived at this size choice was by emailing PG directly, who recommended the half size up for additional comfort after receiving my measurements.
At the same time, just to be sure, I also ordered the Black in a size 27. The Black fit, albeit at the much tighter end of a race fit. The Race Pro in 27.5, on the other hand, fits me like a glove and is the happiest my feet have ever been in ski boots.
In short, what everyone says about PG boots - namely that they are designed with a wider, more anatomical last in mind, is spot on. And yeah, they do have a lower volume (vertically) forefoot area, but this just adds to the amount of control they offer, unlike Scarpa and Atomic boots which, for me, have too much volume even with the boa cranked all the way down.
3/12/2024
I have a pair of black and am thinking about the race pro, would you say sizing is consistent or does the race pro run a bit smaller? My blacks are a 27 and fit well (to slightly too loose on some days). Thanks.
3/21/2024
yeah sizing is consistent! i wouldn't change course if the blacks are working for you in 27. funny enough, i did just downsize my race pro from 27.5 to 27, because of some 'slightly loose' fit at times.
8/27/2024
Hi Alfredo - Do you know the length of your foot? My foot is 273x107 and I’m trying to decide between 27.5 and 28.
Reply to this comment:
12/6/2023
I have a pair of 27.5 Dynafit MEZZALAMA boots. Thinking about getting a lighter race boot
Two questions:
1.) How would the width / length of these boots in size 27.5 compare with the Mezzalama boots?
2.) How would these boots do on steep downhills (i.e. Pof4 race) vs. Mezzalama boots?
Thanks,
Matt
Two questions:
1.) How would the width / length of these boots in size 27.5 compare with the Mezzalama boots?
2.) How would these boots do on steep downhills (i.e. Pof4 race) vs. Mezzalama boots?
Thanks,
Matt
12/7/2023
Matt,
Shoot us an email at help@skimo.co and we can go more in-depth!
In general, they fit fairly similar to the Mezzalama. Maybe a bit wider and a bit lower above the toes and midfoot. They'll be a bit stiffer, at least with regard to rearward flex. Lateral flex will be similar to the Mezzalama. Overall I'd be plenty comfortable steep skiing with the PG Blacks.
Shoot us an email at help@skimo.co and we can go more in-depth!
In general, they fit fairly similar to the Mezzalama. Maybe a bit wider and a bit lower above the toes and midfoot. They'll be a bit stiffer, at least with regard to rearward flex. Lateral flex will be similar to the Mezzalama. Overall I'd be plenty comfortable steep skiing with the PG Blacks.
Answer this question:
12/5/2023
Hi,
What would be the biggest ski width to use with these boots?
Thanks,
Radu
What would be the biggest ski width to use with these boots?
Thanks,
Radu
12/5/2023
Hi Radu, I probably wouldn't suggest much over a lightweight 85mm in width on these! But this really does depend on the conditions, and who you ask.
Answer this question:
10/1/2023
Will you be getting any of these in a 30? And any idea when you will have the 29s in the store? Thanks.
10/2/2023
Dane, PG does make a size 30. Skimo does not have any ordered.
Answer this question:
9/12/2023
Is size 29 the largest one that will be available? My size is 29.5 in most shoes and boots. I'm kinda toying with the, no doubt stupid, idea of ordering carbon fibre boots online based only on the fact that s/lab trail runners from the time of Kilian's cooperation with Salomon fit my feet pretty well (that's where any theoretical similarity between the two of us also ends).
9/13/2023
Hi Karl,
The first part is easy. PG makes true half sizes in sizes 26 and 27. Like all other boots, the 29 and 29.5 are one shell size.
In general, shoe and ski boot fits do not correlate. And there were many S/Lab models with different fits. If you are serious, fill out our Boot fitter, and we can help determine if they may work for you.
The first part is easy. PG makes true half sizes in sizes 26 and 27. Like all other boots, the 29 and 29.5 are one shell size.
In general, shoe and ski boot fits do not correlate. And there were many S/Lab models with different fits. If you are serious, fill out our Boot fitter, and we can help determine if they may work for you.
9/13/2023
Jeff,
Frankly, I'm not sure if I'm serious. It really feels like a bad idea to buy this kind of a boot without trying it on first. I'm certainly looking for a pair of race boots, although probably more in the workhorse rather than the thoroughbred category if you know what I mean. These are also a bit over what my intended budget was but then the price seems to be kind of acceptable for a pair of PG's. And I was talking S/lab Sense 8 and Pulsar (the latter being marginally too tight in the forefoot) if that makes any difference. Likely not much. Well, they aren't available yet and I have plenty of time snooping around. I most likely will give Atomics one more chance this winter just because their fit (with added insoles) was close to perfect. Thanks for your answer regarding PG's sizing!
Frankly, I'm not sure if I'm serious. It really feels like a bad idea to buy this kind of a boot without trying it on first. I'm certainly looking for a pair of race boots, although probably more in the workhorse rather than the thoroughbred category if you know what I mean. These are also a bit over what my intended budget was but then the price seems to be kind of acceptable for a pair of PG's. And I was talking S/lab Sense 8 and Pulsar (the latter being marginally too tight in the forefoot) if that makes any difference. Likely not much. Well, they aren't available yet and I have plenty of time snooping around. I most likely will give Atomics one more chance this winter just because their fit (with added insoles) was close to perfect. Thanks for your answer regarding PG's sizing!
Answer this question:
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