I got these boots in 2024, and used about 10 times on one day tours, each < 5000' vertical.
Pros:
- The boots are light (I also removed top optional strap)
- Excellent range of motion on the uphill
- Good fit: I did not develop any hot spots skinning, skiing or frontpointing in crampons ~2000' vertical.
- Skiing seem to be ok
- Boa system works well
- I did not feel cold in single digits (F)
Cons:
- Boots may have safety issue, and Scarpa does not know the cause. My left boot unlocked repeatedly into walk mode in several tours. Scarpa sent me locking mechanism and 4 screws (with different head size that original screws) without explanation or instructions. Upon questioning, it came out that they wanted me to replace top 2 screws on *both* boots, and locking mechanism was sent "just in case". After replacing all the parts, the problem was *mostly* fixed: I experienced only one unlocking so far.
- Boot sizing. My foot size is 26.5, but Scarpa has only full sizes for this boot, that might be the reason for ok skiing above. My old TLT6 ski better.
- I feel that these boots do not have enough forward lean, even with all the adjustments and padding that came in the box.
- Switching from walk to ski is not a one move switch: besides flipping lever you need to unbuckle top strap for full range of motion.
- Velcro strap has size marks to help remember your favorite position, but you cannot see these marks when you are wearing the boots :), so I usually have to stop on the downhill to re-adjust the strap to find a good position (once a day).
- Boots have metal ring on the side for clipping leash, but it's hard to see it when you are in boots, so clipping and unclipping leash is an annoying experience.
- While regular crampons fit well, you cannot switch boot from walk to ski or from ski to walk when crampons are on, without unlocking crampon heel, which is not a good option when you are on front points and want to lock it to help your calves. But probably most boots with rear lever locks have such issue.
- The soles seems to be very thin and not durable (as compared to my mountaineering boots with black Vibram soles). After walking a short distance on rocks there are several cuts and rips.
SCARPA F1 LT Boot
Sometimes, when two things are combined, they produce something far greater than the original constituents. History is marked by such fusions: fire and meat, iron and carbon into steel, ski poles and ice axes, J-Lo and Shakira. Now, two of the best options for backcountry boots have joined forces to form the all-new, all-powerful F1 LT. By combining lightweight race features from the immensely popular Alien RS with the time-tested durable and reliable F1, SCARPA has created a boot that will change the game for years to come. While some boots may walk the line between race boot and touring boot, the F1 LT is the line. Built for long and fast tours as well as deep, technical descents, this is the boot for skiers who want to chase the most ambitious of objectives while spitting at the notion that skiability and weight are trade-offs.
The lower of the F1 LT was inspired by the Alien RS: made with a Carbon Grilamid LFT shell that is built with the same 3D Lambda Torsion Frame used by the RS to provide more direct power from your foot to the ski, the lower is secured by a simple Boa dial that cinches the waterproof gaiter across the top of your foot providing a quick, dry, and secure fit. Strategic cutouts on the exterior eliminate excess weight and material wherever possible while maintaining enough structural rigidity to drive high-fat skis with ease and confidence. The cuff (also made of the same Carbon Grilamid LFT) trades out the cord-closure of the RS for an F1 buckle strap to increase power and reliability and an additional removable powerstrap (+30g) for even more control on the descent. The spring-loaded ski-walk mechanism is easy to flip and provides an incredible amount of low-friction articulation that will make sure these boots are the last thing to hold you back when speeding uphill. The F1 LT is the boot that will make freeride skiers want to race and make racers want to freeride. Plus, a sexy orange-black paint job will give your ski partners something to look at as you fly past them in your new SCARPA F1 LT's.
- The prodigal child of two of SCARPA's most popular boots, the F1 LT sets the bar for other hybrid race/touring boots.
- Ankles rejoice! 72° degrees of motion is a 10° improvement over the F1 and is more akin to that of race boots.
- Carbon Grilamid LFT construction ensures the highest possible power-to-weight ratio.
- 3D Lambda Torsion Frame increases direct power transmission from foot to ski.
- Boa-secured waterproof gaiter will keep your feet cozy and dry.
- Dynafit Quick Insert tech fittings make stepping in a breeze.
- A surprisingly powerful race boot, or an impressively light touring daily driver, this boot can and will do it all.
- Forward lean can be adjusted by moving the ski/walk lever mounting position, with choices of 9°, 11°, or 13°.
- Removable rigid spoiler on the back of the liner is attached with Velcro so you can further tweak the forward lean (+/- 2°).
- Included power strap (+30 grams) pops on and off in a snap.
| Specifications | |
|
Weight |
995g [27] 1060g [28] |
| Weight (pair) | 1990g [27] 2120g [28] |
|
|
Velcro strap + BOA |
|
Boot Sole |
270mm [24] 278mm [25] 286mm [26] 294mm [27] 302mm [28] 310mm [29] 319mm [30] 327mm [31] |
|
Binding |
Tech only |
|
Cuff |
72° |
|
Forward |
9°, 11°, 13° (+/- 2°) |
| Specs Verified | Yes |
| Design | |
|
|
Carbon Grilamid LFT |
|
|
Intuition Cross Fit Tour LT |
|
|
Vibram UFO RS |
| Skimo Co Says | |
| Usage | Light and fast touring with confident downhill performance |
| Notes | Removable Velcro spoiler on the liner tweaks the Forward lean |
| Bottom Line | A light-as-possible touring boot that boasts the skiability of heavier boots |
| Compare to other Touring Boots | |
Related Products
Questions & Reviews
Comment on this review:
These boots do it all in style. Aside from being my go-to boot for spring skiing or big mid-winter missions, these boots were also my primary pair of ice boots for a season. Believe it or not, they climb ice really well! I would not hesitate to take them on a line that requires ice climbing.
For the skiing, they’re a lightweight boot. You can expect to drive them the way you would a race boot, but when skied intentionally and on a pair of skis that likes to be centered, they do great. I use them on a pair of stiff 95s and they do great. Highly recommend for a lightweight boot that won’t let you down no matter what conditions you find out there.
For the skiing, they’re a lightweight boot. You can expect to drive them the way you would a race boot, but when skied intentionally and on a pair of skis that likes to be centered, they do great. I use them on a pair of stiff 95s and they do great. Highly recommend for a lightweight boot that won’t let you down no matter what conditions you find out there.
Comment on this review:
5/19/2024
Hello, I have a pair of Scarpa F1 LT s and I like them except for lack of forward lean in the ski mode. I notice the boot liners already have shims (spoiler) attached via velcro. Also, I have adjusted the ski/walk lever into a more forward lean positive position. Can you recommend any other methods in alter the forward lean? Thanks
5/20/2024
Hi Bill, right now, that is it. More options then most boots have.
Your bindings may have a lot of Ramp angle. Reducing that can help.
Your bindings may have a lot of Ramp angle. Reducing that can help.
1/4/2025
Boots come with heel pads that you can stick inside the boot, and it may further increase forward lean. I di not try it yet, not sure how much it will help.
Next step would be to do some custom mods like moving locking arm further down, but it has risks obviously.
I have the same feeling: boots lack forward lean. I "fix" it by relaxing the velcro strap.
Next step would be to do some custom mods like moving locking arm further down, but it has risks obviously.
I have the same feeling: boots lack forward lean. I "fix" it by relaxing the velcro strap.
Answer this question:
1/23/2024
Hi,
I’ve got these boots and ski the Salomon MTN 88’s. Now I’m looking at getting more into Skimo racing/training and getting me a 65 mm waist race ski. Can’t afford another pair of boots right now (Scarpa Alien) What do you think of pairing the F1 LT’s with a race ski..?
I’ve got these boots and ski the Salomon MTN 88’s. Now I’m looking at getting more into Skimo racing/training and getting me a 65 mm waist race ski. Can’t afford another pair of boots right now (Scarpa Alien) What do you think of pairing the F1 LT’s with a race ski..?
1/23/2024
Hi Henrik, lots of folks use that class of boot with race skis as an interim step. Some of the race skis can even ski better paired like that.
Answer this question:
10/30/2023
I've been skiing these for the last three seasons (maybe 50 days in total) and they have been a great match for big days in the hills on 80-104mm skis.
However they now have cracks in various parts of the shell.
What boot should I buy that have the same attributes as the F1 Lt but are slightly more durable. I would be willing to add 150g more per boot to gain an extra 50 days of durability out of the boot. I would like to keep the single large velcro cuff strap, range of motion and either boa on the fore foot or single buckle for quick transitions.
I will keep the F1 Lts in service for bigger missions where my skis stay on the ground.
Generally skiing fast, taking small airs, and pushing these lightweight boots to their limits.
Thanks
Rob
However they now have cracks in various parts of the shell.
What boot should I buy that have the same attributes as the F1 Lt but are slightly more durable. I would be willing to add 150g more per boot to gain an extra 50 days of durability out of the boot. I would like to keep the single large velcro cuff strap, range of motion and either boa on the fore foot or single buckle for quick transitions.
I will keep the F1 Lts in service for bigger missions where my skis stay on the ground.
Generally skiing fast, taking small airs, and pushing these lightweight boots to their limits.
Thanks
Rob
10/30/2023
Robert,
Cracks ? These are generally quite durable, but pushing hard with a 104 ski might be much.
Fit, we are all about fit and these are fairly narrow. Finding another boot with the right fit, more durable and only a bit heavier, will be a limited choice.
We can best help if you fill this out in detail - boot fitter.
Cracks ? These are generally quite durable, but pushing hard with a 104 ski might be much.
Fit, we are all about fit and these are fairly narrow. Finding another boot with the right fit, more durable and only a bit heavier, will be a limited choice.
We can best help if you fill this out in detail - boot fitter.
Answer this question:
7/13/2023
Hi guys,
Do you have any recommendations for warmer liners that fit in the F1 LT?
Cheers!
Do you have any recommendations for warmer liners that fit in the F1 LT?
Cheers!
7/14/2023
Tom, As an ultralight boot with a thin liner and low volume shell, there is not much you can do to to add a thicker liner. Unless you have a very narrow foot and lots of extra room. I find the foam of the Intuition liners to be pretty good for a thin liner.
If you really need added warmth, an over boot like the Snux should help more then a different liner.
Then you can use only when needed.
If you really need added warmth, an over boot like the Snux should help more then a different liner.
Then you can use only when needed.
Answer this question:
After 2 seasons of exclusively using this boot (approximately 150 days) on a 96mm powder ski and 86mm corn ski I'm extremely impressed. The durability is insane, they basically ski like they did right out of the box. I developed an ankle bunion and they were super easy to punch out. I've climbed a bunch of ice and rock in them and I can't image ever going back to a heavier boot. The mobility and light weight are amazing for boot packing also. Stoked for more turns in these!
Comment on this review:
5/2/2023
D Kirkwood
(used product regularly)
In the first week, the stitching in the main strap came undone. Skimoco was awesome and responsive, but it was easier to have it sewn locally. Otherwise durability has been fine. I have never been able to get the fit right: I have a low instep, skinny heels, and a long narrow foot, and I couldn't ever get the lower shell to feel secure. Fine on perfect groomers. Added all manner of insoles and padding, but the boa has always felt a few clicks too loose when maxed. My ankles/shins felt like they were moving around in a way I didn't like. The next size down was too short, but I should have shopped around more.
9/21/2023
I sewed the strap on my own, not really a big deal. I run insoles from Birkenstock of all places in the boot, trimmed to fit. I love this boot and am nearing replacement, just was hoping for new colors. That’s all.
Comment on this review:
2/16/2023
A boot size question. My foot size 6.5, for instance I wear fischer traverse cs mono 24.5. So switch to scarpa f1 lt, which size is my guideline? According to their website, looks like 25, I am a little confused.
Thanks
Zesheng
Thanks
Zesheng
2/16/2023
Hi Zesheng, Scarpa breaks their shell sizes a bit differently from other brands. Whereas a Fischer boot shares a shell size between 24/24.5 and 25/25.5, Scarpa boots share a shell size between 24.5/25 and 25.5/26, etc.
Feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co and we can get into more detail about fit!
Feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co and we can get into more detail about fit!
Answer this question:
Roughly 150 days in these boots, they ski extremely well IMO, quite stiff but once you're used to it they're great. Extremely comfortable as well, I use them for shoveling the driveway, ice climbing, and even driving to the trailhead if I'm running late. Durability is where problems arose for me, over the past month in them the finger strap ripped off/velcro failed, boa system snapped and the ski/walk mechanism literally sheared off while side-stepping. Luckily all these things happened in chill areas but if any had happened mid-line it could've been catastrophic. The liners are also pretty blown out, some extra play has developed in the cuff pivot, and the shell is cracking inside near the boa connect points. Amazing boot overall but depending on how Scarpa deals with my warranty claim will be make or break.
Comment on this review:
I was looking for a boot that would be just as comfortable training for skimo races, actually racing, and doing huge vert days across different pairs of skis, from my 65mm race skis to my 85mm "powder skis."
After a few hundred miles in these boots, I've made the following observations that I hope will be helpful to others looking for something similar:
- I've tried on other scarpa alien boots and they felt too narrow to my flat, medium width, low volume feet. The F1 LT by comparison has been a pretty perfect match after spending two weeks making my toenails suffer while breaking the liners in (I prefer to do this instead of heat molding for a more accurate fit). I've been able to do high-tempo 22km+ sessions with lots of climbing without a single fit-related issue.
- These boots are an awesome pairing with race skis. Their incredible weight-to-stiffness ratio means you pay little penalty for the extra control and precision gained when driving your skis & I've noticed they've allowed me to feel extra confidence at speed.
- I removed all the extras, ie., the top cuff and forward lean velcro adjustment piece. However, even in this config, you still have to do two steps during transition instead of one if you had true race boots. This can be pretty annoying sometimes, especially when you're exposed on a ridgeline somewhere and just wanted to get into ski mode ASAP. I think it's the main factor to consider if you're trying to decide between these and something more simple and speed-oriented like the Alien or a Dynafit model like the Mezzalama.
But at the same time, you do get a really fine adjustment with the cuff that helps you account for differences every time you buckle in - perhaps slightly thicker socks, less swelling in colder temps, etc. In truth, this two-step transition doesn't take much effort once you're fairly dialed in with the settings you usually prefer.
- Compared to something like the dynafit PDG 2, I can definitely feel the added ROM friction in these boots compared to true race boots. So, keep in mind that for the added skiability these boots give you, there's some tradeoff in their fluency for high-tempo skinning. They won't hold you back in training, but if you're getting to a high level and are on similar fitness with others, they might be a limitation if the rest of the field is wearing buttery smooth / friction-free boots with nearly non-existent liners.
All in all, these boots are everything I was hoping for and are excellent for racking up volume and going on big adventures. For how light they are, they feel incredibly sturdy and likely to last for a very long time, making them an excellent value IMO.
After a few hundred miles in these boots, I've made the following observations that I hope will be helpful to others looking for something similar:
- I've tried on other scarpa alien boots and they felt too narrow to my flat, medium width, low volume feet. The F1 LT by comparison has been a pretty perfect match after spending two weeks making my toenails suffer while breaking the liners in (I prefer to do this instead of heat molding for a more accurate fit). I've been able to do high-tempo 22km+ sessions with lots of climbing without a single fit-related issue.
- These boots are an awesome pairing with race skis. Their incredible weight-to-stiffness ratio means you pay little penalty for the extra control and precision gained when driving your skis & I've noticed they've allowed me to feel extra confidence at speed.
- I removed all the extras, ie., the top cuff and forward lean velcro adjustment piece. However, even in this config, you still have to do two steps during transition instead of one if you had true race boots. This can be pretty annoying sometimes, especially when you're exposed on a ridgeline somewhere and just wanted to get into ski mode ASAP. I think it's the main factor to consider if you're trying to decide between these and something more simple and speed-oriented like the Alien or a Dynafit model like the Mezzalama.
But at the same time, you do get a really fine adjustment with the cuff that helps you account for differences every time you buckle in - perhaps slightly thicker socks, less swelling in colder temps, etc. In truth, this two-step transition doesn't take much effort once you're fairly dialed in with the settings you usually prefer.
- Compared to something like the dynafit PDG 2, I can definitely feel the added ROM friction in these boots compared to true race boots. So, keep in mind that for the added skiability these boots give you, there's some tradeoff in their fluency for high-tempo skinning. They won't hold you back in training, but if you're getting to a high level and are on similar fitness with others, they might be a limitation if the rest of the field is wearing buttery smooth / friction-free boots with nearly non-existent liners.
All in all, these boots are everything I was hoping for and are excellent for racking up volume and going on big adventures. For how light they are, they feel incredibly sturdy and likely to last for a very long time, making them an excellent value IMO.
Comment on this review:
1/29/2023
What is the ramp angle of the 21/22 version, and when did Scarpa add a new zeppa to increase the ramp angle?
1/30/2023
RC, The Ramp angle is 3.5 degrees for sizes 26-28, for this seasons model and the 21/22. I don't believe it was changed for the F1 LT.
Answer this question:
1/15/2023
Hi! I was hoping for sizing help on these boots. I have a pair of Lange RX 130 in size 29.5, and typically wear street shoes size 12/12.5. Thanks so much for your guidance!!
1/16/2023
Nils,
We typically judge sizing based on an actual foot measurement. Hence, for any fit-related questions, reach out to us at help@skimo.co or fill out a Boot Fitter and we can get you some advice!
We typically judge sizing based on an actual foot measurement. Hence, for any fit-related questions, reach out to us at help@skimo.co or fill out a Boot Fitter and we can get you some advice!
Answer this question:
This boot is sick, if your foot fits in it. I know, I know, that's how ski boots work, but let me explain:
Of course it walks well, no surprise there. Great ROM, easy stride, light weight, climbs great! I know some folks feel like the upper power strap/cam lever mechanism doesn't have enough throw for smooth walking without additionally loosening it. I didn't find this to be the case at all. I set it to a comfortable pressure for the down, and then opened it, and had plenty of ROM. That said, I have less ankle ROM than others.
I found transitions were fast and smooth, once I figured out the correct pressure from the calf strap. I ended up removing the upper velcro strap, it didn't do anything for me.
I skied much bigger skis than Scarpa recommends for this boot, including a 10K+ day in variable snow on a 184 cm, 112 mm wide ski. No, I wouldn't ski big skis and jump off stuff regularly in this boot, but with some finesse it drives bigger skis just fine.
Ultimately, my high volume, super tall foot meant that I just couldn't stay comfortable in this boot for bigger days, but my foot is a big outlier, and doesn't fit well in most boots, so if you're closer to the center of the bell curve, you'll probably be well served!
Of course it walks well, no surprise there. Great ROM, easy stride, light weight, climbs great! I know some folks feel like the upper power strap/cam lever mechanism doesn't have enough throw for smooth walking without additionally loosening it. I didn't find this to be the case at all. I set it to a comfortable pressure for the down, and then opened it, and had plenty of ROM. That said, I have less ankle ROM than others.
I found transitions were fast and smooth, once I figured out the correct pressure from the calf strap. I ended up removing the upper velcro strap, it didn't do anything for me.
I skied much bigger skis than Scarpa recommends for this boot, including a 10K+ day in variable snow on a 184 cm, 112 mm wide ski. No, I wouldn't ski big skis and jump off stuff regularly in this boot, but with some finesse it drives bigger skis just fine.
Ultimately, my high volume, super tall foot meant that I just couldn't stay comfortable in this boot for bigger days, but my foot is a big outlier, and doesn't fit well in most boots, so if you're closer to the center of the bell curve, you'll probably be well served!
Comment on this review:
Used this boot pretty much the entire 2021-22 season - from midwinter conditions to spring volcanoes.
While it probably wasn't its intended usage, I don't think this boot struggled to drive a 1550g ski (98mm 172cm length on size 25.0). Wearing them felt super light, so I really noticed the energy expenditure saved on long and sloggy bootpacks.
Some cons are that it's a little cramped in the toe box (for me), and that the boa enclosure wraps over the forefoot (I would rather like it to clamp the ankle). A commenter asked a question about the boot rubbing the inner ankle bone and that was definitely the case for my left one, but it became less of an issue with more usage. The transitions are quick, but I do notice myself having to readjust the top strap (not the power buckle).
All in all, I could probably have found a better fitting boot, but I've been happy with how they have skied and performed. I'd be curious to finally drive it on lighter skis like the Blizzard Zero G's next season and see how durability continues to hold up.
While it probably wasn't its intended usage, I don't think this boot struggled to drive a 1550g ski (98mm 172cm length on size 25.0). Wearing them felt super light, so I really noticed the energy expenditure saved on long and sloggy bootpacks.
Some cons are that it's a little cramped in the toe box (for me), and that the boa enclosure wraps over the forefoot (I would rather like it to clamp the ankle). A commenter asked a question about the boot rubbing the inner ankle bone and that was definitely the case for my left one, but it became less of an issue with more usage. The transitions are quick, but I do notice myself having to readjust the top strap (not the power buckle).
All in all, I could probably have found a better fitting boot, but I've been happy with how they have skied and performed. I'd be curious to finally drive it on lighter skis like the Blizzard Zero G's next season and see how durability continues to hold up.
Comment on this review:
7/26/2022
Hi,
I own the original Scarpa Alien 27.0, that fit perfect. I also have the Scarpa RS 27.0 that are almost too tight.
What size would you suggest ? Trying the 28? Aid the fit wider then the RS?
I own the original Scarpa Alien 27.0, that fit perfect. I also have the Scarpa RS 27.0 that are almost too tight.
What size would you suggest ? Trying the 28? Aid the fit wider then the RS?
7/27/2022
Thanks for reaching out, Benoit. The F1 LT is perhaps a touch wider than the Alien RS (depending on who you ask) but will fit quite similarly. We wouldn't recommend sacrificing length to gain width, so if it's the right length but not the right width then a different boot may be the ticket. If you're interested in trying a different brand of boot, please reach out using our online bootfinder!
Answer this question:
7/11/2022
Looking at scarpa f1lt but I wear 27.5 mondo should I go up or down in size thanks
7/11/2022
Hey Tim, it depends. For a more accurate response, please fill out our bootfitter!
Answer this question:
Like many of the other reviews, I’m very happy with these boots. They easily drive a 100 mm ski (one of my initial concerns). Perhaps my only issue is that I am exactly a 27.5. So the 27 was too tight and I had to return. I was worried I would swim in the 28. But after trying a few thicker footbeds to take up some of the volume the 28 has been hotspot free with no slop. Great boot.
Comment on this review:
These didn't quite live up to the hype for me. If they fit your feet and ankles I can imagine they perform very well, and I have friends who swear by these boots so don't let my opinion alone make your decision.
I have very low volume feet, ankles and legs, with moderate width forefoot and skinny ankle. I found the forefoot too tight and too short, constricting my toes. I initially couldn't get the boa tight enough over my forefoot but I solved that by adding a thicker foot bed. The ankles were too roomy, which wasn't a big deal on the uphill because I was able to secure my foot with the boa, but they moved around a bit on the downhill which made skiing a little harder. Like any boot without a tongue, the flex is not very progressive and can be a bit unforgiving in bad snow.
In the end I got rid of my F1 LTs and just use the Skorpius now which fit my feet better, and have a much more progressive flex. They do walk a little worse and are a little heavier.
I have very low volume feet, ankles and legs, with moderate width forefoot and skinny ankle. I found the forefoot too tight and too short, constricting my toes. I initially couldn't get the boa tight enough over my forefoot but I solved that by adding a thicker foot bed. The ankles were too roomy, which wasn't a big deal on the uphill because I was able to secure my foot with the boa, but they moved around a bit on the downhill which made skiing a little harder. Like any boot without a tongue, the flex is not very progressive and can be a bit unforgiving in bad snow.
In the end I got rid of my F1 LTs and just use the Skorpius now which fit my feet better, and have a much more progressive flex. They do walk a little worse and are a little heavier.
Comment on this review:
4/6/2022
How does the fit of these compare to a Scarpa Alien? I have a set of Aliens from 2016 which are a 290 mondo (using a custom insole), and they're a little snug around the toes - when running in them my toes tend to bump up against the front of the boot. Having said that, the heel is a little loose and I get a bit of vertical play in it. I have them on the tightest buckle setting.
Thinking of ordering some F1 LTs for this year's PdG and just wondering whether to size up to a 300 or stick with 290. My foot is c.270 long.
Thinking of ordering some F1 LTs for this year's PdG and just wondering whether to size up to a 300 or stick with 290. My foot is c.270 long.
4/6/2022
Hi Oliver, the fits are pretty similar but there are some important differences. The F1 LT will have a higher instep than the 2016 Alien, which may make it more challenging to lock your heel down. The F1 LT also has a slightly wider toebox than the Alien.
If you'd like more detailed help dialing in your boot size, please feel free to fill out our online boot fitter.
If you'd like more detailed help dialing in your boot size, please feel free to fill out our online boot fitter.
Answer this question:
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