I have an old pair of Aliens (purchased 2015) -- neon yellow version with plastic riveted on in the bending areas of the cuff to reduce snow/water entry. I've loved the boot's weight and range of motion. And they ski just fine for my old-school style of skiing (lots of turns, not particularly fast). What I haven't liked is how wet the boots get inside. Obviously some of the moisture is sweat but most of it is melted snow that wets out the liner to the point that my socks are often wringing wet. This is tolerable for day trips but far from desirable for multi-day trips.
So my main question about the Aliens 1.1 is whether the gaiter effectively blocks outside moisture from penetrating the boots and wetting out your feet. I want a very light boot that simply has me managing my sweat.
SCARPA Alien 1.1 Boot
A fixture at the head of any skimo race, the original Alien 1.0 established a higher performance-to-weight benchmark. It’s difficult to imagine improving on a winner like this, but no one is arguing the reformulation doesn’t do just that. We’re calling it the Alien 1.1 (SCARPA still calls it “1.0”, but hey, that’s confusing. Maybe the Alien 1.0 v2?).
Keeping the full-carbon cuff, single throw ski/walk mechanism, and BOA instep closure that gave the 1.0 its racing and adventure successes, SCARPA smartly didn’t change what wasn’t broken. Instead, they’ve taken the minor areas of weakness and turned them into strengths, which is sure to continue this boot’s legacy performance. The lower is now made of Carbon Grilamid LFT material (from the Alien RS) which brings levels of stiffness and support at a low mass. The BOA closure system remains over the instep but is now internal, providing a closer fitting and more secure closure over the foot. A pain point of the original 1.0 was the difficult-to-enter sock-style liner; SCARPA has replaced it with a Crossfit Intuition BT liner featuring a full-length tongue that provides additional support and comfort. Some folks will be most excited by the integrated gaiter which increases the weather resistance and decreases instances of soaked feet. The SCARPA Alien 1.1 is an even better ski boot than the original, at a better price to boot (yay, puns).
- Carbon Grilamid LFT shell increases stiffness and responsiveness.
- Integrated gaiter keeps your feet dry and warm, a novelty!
- Vibram UFO sole provides lasting traction on ridges and boot packs.
- Internal BOA system provides better foot hold for precise edging.
- Proven Alien ski/walk lever is still the quickest way to transition.
Update 2021/22: An updated color scheme and slightly thicker liner for comfort and performance will accompany the model.
| Specifications | |
|
Weight |
792g [27] 822g [28] |
| Weight (pair) | 1584g [27] 1644g [28] |
|
|
Rope plus BOA, single throw latch |
|
Boot Sole |
262mm [24] 271mm [25] 279mm [26] 287mm [27] 296mm [28] 305mm [29] 313mm [30] |
|
Binding |
Tech only |
|
Cuff |
75° |
|
Forward |
9°, 13° |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Carbon-reinforced Grilamid lower, carbon cuff |
|
|
Intuition Cross Fit BT |
|
|
Vibram UFO |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Skimo racing, training |
| Notes | Integrated gaiter means less wet-feet |
| Bottom Line | Next level Alien! |
| Compare to other Race Boots | |
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Questions & Reviews
8/14/2022
8/15/2022
Hi Andy,
The Alien 1.1 isn't perfect for staying dry in deeper snow as it is a tongueless gaitered race boot, but the taller gaiter is fully sealed to the scafo and will do much better than your OG Alien 1.0 at keeping out snow and moisture.
The Alien 1.1 isn't perfect for staying dry in deeper snow as it is a tongueless gaitered race boot, but the taller gaiter is fully sealed to the scafo and will do much better than your OG Alien 1.0 at keeping out snow and moisture.
Answer this question:
4/14/2022
How does the fit of the Scarpa Alien 1.1 compare to the F1 LT? If I know for certain that my foot fits very well in the F1 LT, will my foot also fit well in the Alien 1.1? And is the sizing of the boots the same?
4/14/2022
Hello Mike. I have an Alien RS, the same lower as the F1 LT according to SCARPA, and the Alien 1.1 both in the same size. The 1.1 is going to have a similar lower that is a bit smaller but also comes with a smaller liner and is definitely snugger. I would think if the F1 LT fits you well without any problems the 1.1 may fit you in the same size.
Answer this question:
3/25/2022
Hello! I have the Alien 1.1 from 2020 in size 30. It turned out that the boot was a bit small for my feet, lacking both length and width in the front. I had the boot shell blocked two years ago, but i still think it is at bit to small. Any experiance on how much theese boots can be stretched? I am no longer a youth, and have started to prefer comfort over race fit. I think my best bet would be a size 31 boot...
Any other suggestions for big, but lightweight boot? It seems that most boots in this category only come up to size 30.
Any other suggestions for big, but lightweight boot? It seems that most boots in this category only come up to size 30.
3/25/2022
Hi Erik, with SCARPA sizing, the 30 is also the same shell as a 29.5 (if it existed). The Backland Ultimate is a half size bigger and the shell can be heat molded to fit bigger feet.
Finally, for the first time in skimo history, there may be size 31.0 race boots next season: the Dynafit DNA and Mezzalama are planned to be offered in that size. Note those would also be available in size 30.5 with the same shell, and they are narrow and seem to run a bit small.
Finally, for the first time in skimo history, there may be size 31.0 race boots next season: the Dynafit DNA and Mezzalama are planned to be offered in that size. Note those would also be available in size 30.5 with the same shell, and they are narrow and seem to run a bit small.
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3/21/2022
I'm a happy user of the old yellow 1.0 Alien (over 6 years and around 200'000 m at 90kg!). Does this newer version have the same sole lenght, so swapping on fix-drilled race bindings isn't an issue?
Martin
Martin
3/21/2022
Hi Martin. These do have the same BSL as the old model. I'm sure you'll love the new boot and hopefully no need to redrill.
3/21/2022
Hi Martin, some folks who have made that switch noticed a difference in BSL (enough to want to add an adjustment plate), despite them being listed as the same. They come from different molds and there can be some discrepancies.
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3/20/2022
How will this compare to the LS Raceborg in terms of how big a ski it can drive?
3/21/2022
Hey David, both are race boots and only designed to drive race skis. With that in mind, the 1.1 would be the better suited of the two to drive slightly bigger skis.
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3/12/2022
I am also curious about how to use of the 2 sets of "stick-on" pads that come with the boots. I would like to put some extra padding around my calf but am unsure if I should use just one or both sets of padding. Interested to hear what other people have been doing.
3/14/2022
Garrett, The two sets are different thicknesses, so you would use whichever achieves what you need for fit. They cover a lot of the cuff, you can trim and mix and match as needed.
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3/9/2022
Maybe a dumb question, but I can't find any info in the owner's manual or on Scarpa's website or here about use of the 2 sets of "stick-on" pads that come with the boots. I assume they are for the liner as a sort of ankle wrap if needed. Thanks in advance for any guidance.
3/10/2022
Hi Dave,
The foam pads that included in the box are intended to help with filling out areas that are too high volume for your foot. For example, adding foam behind your calf in the cuff to ensure a more snug fit in the cuff area. Another option could be using that pad in the ankle/heel area to increase heel hold. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
The foam pads that included in the box are intended to help with filling out areas that are too high volume for your foot. For example, adding foam behind your calf in the cuff to ensure a more snug fit in the cuff area. Another option could be using that pad in the ankle/heel area to increase heel hold. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
Answer this question:
3/6/2022
Hi, I already have the pdg2 size 26 and I’m looking for another boots. My feet are 107cm large and 25,8 long. What is the best size for me and to you think this boots are large enough! Thanks
3/7/2022
Hi Marc-Andre,
The PDG2 has a pretty high volume fit for a race boot. Also, based on your foot measurements, it looks like you have a foot on the wider end of the spectrum. The Alien 1.1 has a narrow last width, and would not be the best pairing for your feet. If you are on the lookout for a new set of skimo race boots, I would check out our Boot Fitter tool!
The PDG2 has a pretty high volume fit for a race boot. Also, based on your foot measurements, it looks like you have a foot on the wider end of the spectrum. The Alien 1.1 has a narrow last width, and would not be the best pairing for your feet. If you are on the lookout for a new set of skimo race boots, I would check out our Boot Fitter tool!
Answer this question:
2/23/2022
Hey,
Are they some important changes between the 1.1 "yellow" version (the last photo on this page) and the blue/orange one ? I'm a bit confused about their released date (is 2021/22 the blue/orange version ?)
I'm looking to upgrade from loved but old alien 1.0
Thanks !
Are they some important changes between the 1.1 "yellow" version (the last photo on this page) and the blue/orange one ? I'm a bit confused about their released date (is 2021/22 the blue/orange version ?)
I'm looking to upgrade from loved but old alien 1.0
Thanks !
2/23/2022
Hey Thomas, the blue and orange version is the current model. The only differences between the two versions will be the color and a slightly different gator material reinforcing the BOA.
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2/19/2022
I have size 29 in these and right foot is perfect, but left could use just a touch bigger liner. Is it possible to get a 29.5 liner? Do they make that and how do the shells break on these boots? I think the 30.0 would be too big.
Thank you
Thank you
2/19/2022
Hey Kevin,
If the boots are brand new, I would suggest heat molding the liner with a full toe cap to give the toes on your left foot a little space. Scarpa uses intuition liners designed to be heat molded even in their race boots, so if your toes are just a bit snug, a heat mold might just do the trick for you. In these boots there are no half sizes, so you would have to jump up to the 30.0 if you need more than a few millimeters of space.
If the boots are brand new, I would suggest heat molding the liner with a full toe cap to give the toes on your left foot a little space. Scarpa uses intuition liners designed to be heat molded even in their race boots, so if your toes are just a bit snug, a heat mold might just do the trick for you. In these boots there are no half sizes, so you would have to jump up to the 30.0 if you need more than a few millimeters of space.
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2/8/2022
IS IT POSSIBLE TO USE A TRADITIONAL LINER (THE INTUITION FOR EXAMPLE) ON THE SCARPA 1.1?
2/8/2022
Thanks for reaching out, Pau. For this boot, you'd be better off with a Palau Ultralight Race Liner, which is a bit more traditional than the bikini style liner that comes with the boot.
2/8/2022
Hi Pau, the cuff flaps aren't long enough to encompass an Intuition liner which is really thick in the cuff. The cord will kinda get caught with the flaps going the wrong way.
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1/17/2022
Hi. I wear a size 26.5 in the Alien RS, what size should I get in the Alien 1.1?
1/17/2022
Hi Robert, to our knowledge, the RS was only available in whole sizes. You would be the same size 1.1 that you are in the RS, noting it's a touch narrower and lower volume so has the potential to not fit if you're tight in the RS.
Answer this question:
I have used the first 1.1 version and now the new color scheme which actually made significant changes to the boot itself.
I had issues with the cord clips on the first version. Specifically how they would catch on the carbon cuff and get bent out of shape. The new version seems to fix that. The clip is much stronger appearing and I have been unable to get it to catch when rubbing the boots together.
The gaiter also seems to be more durable. I had issues with wear on the gaiter and mild tearing of the velcro, but the new version improves the velcro where I don't expect it to tear. One problem with the gaiter however is that it is less stretchy and so makes boot entry and exit a bit more contorted.
Overall a big improvement and worth the upgrade
I had issues with the cord clips on the first version. Specifically how they would catch on the carbon cuff and get bent out of shape. The new version seems to fix that. The clip is much stronger appearing and I have been unable to get it to catch when rubbing the boots together.
The gaiter also seems to be more durable. I had issues with wear on the gaiter and mild tearing of the velcro, but the new version improves the velcro where I don't expect it to tear. One problem with the gaiter however is that it is less stretchy and so makes boot entry and exit a bit more contorted.
Overall a big improvement and worth the upgrade
2/23/2022
Hi TZed,
Thanks for your feedback. May I ask specifically what versions are you referring to ? Is the first 1.1 the one with the yellow boa and the new color scheme the one with the orange boa and blue/orange on the sides ?
Would you recommend the latest one ?
Thanks !
Thanks for your feedback. May I ask specifically what versions are you referring to ? Is the first 1.1 the one with the yellow boa and the new color scheme the one with the orange boa and blue/orange on the sides ?
Would you recommend the latest one ?
Thanks !
2/23/2022
I am referring to the first 1.1 as the version described on skintrack here (yellow and black) http://www.skintrack.com/gear-tech/new-scarpa-alien-1-0-alien-rs/
And the new color scheme as this years model(orange and blue)
I do recommend the blue and orange version. They have been going strong for me
And the new color scheme as this years model(orange and blue)
I do recommend the blue and orange version. They have been going strong for me
Comment on this review:
For their intended use, they're an amazing piece of technology
I pushed them, skiing 90mm skis in the summer in couloirs. For this purpose I was much happier in a bigger boot, at least an Alien RS. I felt the lack of material in the front of the 1.1
The total lack of ankle resistance on the up is amazing, but the lower poked me in my Achilles if I took too large a stride
Overall though, for what they are, it's amazing what they can do. A little taste of the future, I think
I pushed them, skiing 90mm skis in the summer in couloirs. For this purpose I was much happier in a bigger boot, at least an Alien RS. I felt the lack of material in the front of the 1.1
The total lack of ankle resistance on the up is amazing, but the lower poked me in my Achilles if I took too large a stride
Overall though, for what they are, it's amazing what they can do. A little taste of the future, I think
Comment on this review:
11/18/2021
Hey crew! I've had a pair of these for two years and I LOVE them, but I have a pair of liners that are absolutely toast. Do you know anything about the replacement liners for the 1.1s? I can't find them on Scarpa or on your site. Do they exist in the US?
11/18/2021
Hi Joe,
We do have replacement liners for your beloved boots! Depending on your size, we may or may not currently have them in stock. Take a look at our Scarpa Liners listing. The liners that you are looking for are the Alien 1.1 liners. If your size is not in stock, reach out to help@skimo.co, and we can chat options!
We do have replacement liners for your beloved boots! Depending on your size, we may or may not currently have them in stock. Take a look at our Scarpa Liners listing. The liners that you are looking for are the Alien 1.1 liners. If your size is not in stock, reach out to help@skimo.co, and we can chat options!
11/18/2021
Aha! Excellent, thank you so much!
Answer this question:
3/18/2021
Hi,
I wonder what is the difference between 1.1 and cheaper, standard Alien.
Weight difference is obvious, but in terms of stiffness, ski performance and durability - do they differ noticeably?
I wonder what is the difference between 1.1 and cheaper, standard Alien.
Weight difference is obvious, but in terms of stiffness, ski performance and durability - do they differ noticeably?
3/18/2021
Hi Kroman,
The Alien 1.1 and the standard Alien have the same lower shell in both material and shape. However, the boots do have significant differences:
- The Alien has a full liner, while the Alien 1.1 has a bikini liner with a full tongue which increases the rearward ease-of-motion. This difference in liners creates a nuanced difference in fit, and means that the standard Alien will be slightly warmer.
- The Alien 1.1 has a carbon cuff. This saves weight, and makes this boot the stiffer of the two. However, carbon makes the flex less progressive. On the other side of things, the standard Alien will be softer, but it will have a more progressive flex.
If you have any further question, I would recommend filling out a Boot Fitter!
The Alien 1.1 and the standard Alien have the same lower shell in both material and shape. However, the boots do have significant differences:
- The Alien has a full liner, while the Alien 1.1 has a bikini liner with a full tongue which increases the rearward ease-of-motion. This difference in liners creates a nuanced difference in fit, and means that the standard Alien will be slightly warmer.
- The Alien 1.1 has a carbon cuff. This saves weight, and makes this boot the stiffer of the two. However, carbon makes the flex less progressive. On the other side of things, the standard Alien will be softer, but it will have a more progressive flex.
If you have any further question, I would recommend filling out a Boot Fitter!
Answer this question:
10/13/2020
Hi guys! I understand these boots comes without a footbed. Are they intended to be used without footbeds, or do you recommend to get some custom ones?
10/13/2020
Hey Stones, basically it all depends on how well the boots fit your feet. If you have them sized a bit tighter as some racers do, there might not be all that much room in the boot to include a footbed which could possibly be why Scarpa didn't add one. So in essence yes, you can include a custom footbed in the boot and depending on the fit it would not detract from the boots overall functionality.
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2/13/2020
How does the Alien 1.1 compare for regular lightweight ski touring and technical ski mountaineering (non-racing) compared to the Alien RS? I have a pair of Alien 3.0s for racing that I really like, but I'm hesitant to do big days in the mountains with them. I'm looking for a boot that's still really light and can drive a 90-waist ski (Dynafit Carbonio). Is the Alien 1.1 too 'race-oriented' or will it excel for this use?
2/14/2020
Al,
In considering your skis at 90mm underfoot I would suggest the Alien RS as the more appropriate boot. It will also give you a little more protection from the elements on those long days playing in the mountains. I hope this helps!
Patrick // Skimo Co
In considering your skis at 90mm underfoot I would suggest the Alien RS as the more appropriate boot. It will also give you a little more protection from the elements on those long days playing in the mountains. I hope this helps!
Patrick // Skimo Co
3/31/2020
I haven’t skied the alien RS but I also race in the alien 3.0 and use the alien 1.1 as my touring boot (mainly with a 89mm underfoot ski) and find it to be a great lightweight touring boot with adequate warmth, coverage, durability and ski performance.
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2/25/2019
Hello from Switzerland :)
I've had the Alien 1.0, but due to the carbon "triangle" ond both sides in the lower shell, I couldn't punch my area of pressure. Does anybody know whether there are similar "sheets of carbon" in the lower shell or ist the whole shell out of this matt black "carbon/grillamid mix"?
Cheers Manuel
I've had the Alien 1.0, but due to the carbon "triangle" ond both sides in the lower shell, I couldn't punch my area of pressure. Does anybody know whether there are similar "sheets of carbon" in the lower shell or ist the whole shell out of this matt black "carbon/grillamid mix"?
Cheers Manuel
2/25/2019
Hi Manual, there are no sheets of carbon, but SCARPA does not recommend punching this material.
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2/20/2019
Hi do you have some problems with boa rope? i break boa rope second time in one month on right boot and i am not only one i known with this problem.
2/20/2019
Hi Juraj, we have not seen issues with the BOA on this model. If you have a low instep and are really cranking it down, that could be a problem.
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