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] 318mm [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 | |
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Questions & Reviews
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:
4/1/2022
Have you heard any feedback about F1 LT's rubbing inner ankle bones? For once, my feet feel pretty good, but after doing two longish skimo races (Shedhorn and Tellurando) I have experienced rubbing and bruising on protruding inner ankle bones. I took a break of two weeks without wearing these boots and today, after 2 miles of skinning, my ankles were crying. I tried loosening and tightening with no change. I did not heat-fit the liners after purchase. Maybe that would help? I skied in FI's for years and didnt experience this. Wondering if anyone else has mentioned it?
4/1/2022
Hi Michelle, ankle rubbing can occur in any boot, depending on how your feet and ankles are shaped! A heat mold would be a great place to start, as punching the shells does technically void Scarpa's warranty. If a liner thermomold is not effective, best to visit a local bootfitter if possible to see what other work might be done to make the boots usable.
4/11/2022
I get this in my Alien 1.0 michelle. Thanks for mentioning your issues with this boot.
Answer this question:
I bought these at the beginning of this season with hopes for a uphill oriented boot that skis well. These ski above their weight class for sure, I have used them on bulletproof to blower days (about 20 days total) and have not had any issues and of course they walk extremely well. My foot is super narrow so the last really works for me. I think the regular F1 is more versatile can drive a winder range of skis with more confidence with just a little weight sacrifice
I havent had much boot work done, and I would give these 7/10 comfort wise so for.
All and all its great boot for weight, but I wish they were a little more versatile.
I havent had much boot work done, and I would give these 7/10 comfort wise so for.
All and all its great boot for weight, but I wish they were a little more versatile.
Comment on this review:
3/14/2022
The published last width is 100mm. Is that the same on all sizes? I noticed the the Fischer Traverse CS last increases for each size...up to 104mm for 28.5, which is good for my hobbit foot.
3/14/2022
Hi Rando Richard,
For the most part, ski boots have a proportional shell. So, as you mentioned with the Travers, the F1 LT gets proportionally wider as compared with the reference size. However, I would still consider the F1 LT to have a pretty low volume fit. If your feet are on the wider end of the spectrum, this boot would not be my first choice for you. If you would like some additional help picking out a set of boots, I would recommend filling out a boot fitter!
For the most part, ski boots have a proportional shell. So, as you mentioned with the Travers, the F1 LT gets proportionally wider as compared with the reference size. However, I would still consider the F1 LT to have a pretty low volume fit. If your feet are on the wider end of the spectrum, this boot would not be my first choice for you. If you would like some additional help picking out a set of boots, I would recommend filling out a boot fitter!
Answer this question:
2/26/2022
Hi Skimo!
Considering using these as a training and race boot (for longer grande-course style races) as well as light-weight touring. Is there a particular after-market liner that you would recommend for a lighter race setup while keeping the stock intuition liner for regular touring?
Cheers
Considering using these as a training and race boot (for longer grande-course style races) as well as light-weight touring. Is there a particular after-market liner that you would recommend for a lighter race setup while keeping the stock intuition liner for regular touring?
Cheers
2/26/2022
Hi Ori! With race boots, manufacturers frequently size down their shells to compensate for a thinner stock liner. If you have already selected a boot with the typical touring "1.5 finger shell fit," then a race-style liner may loosen your fit in such a way that outweighs the performance benefits of shaving some grams. That being said, the Alien RS liner, aka the Scarpa Cross Fit Tour, is slightly less beefy and would do well in this boot!
Answer this question:
2/23/2022
Hi - I have a new set up with Scarpa F1 LTs and a 90mm ski. I am thinking of trying to find some wider skis for powder days. I know I should not go too wide/heavy as the skis will overpower the boots, right? Could you confirm though it these boots would be compatible with Shift bindings (if I found a decent ski with these bindings instead of tech)?
2/23/2022
Hi Geoff,
The Scarpa F1 LT is not compatible with a shift binding. Officially, Scarpa states that driving a ski wider than 85mm underfoot with the F1 LT will void the warranty.
However, the F1 LT is impressively powerful for its weight, and plenty of folks have driven skis in excess of 85mm using that boot. If you plan to drive wide powder skis with your F1 LTs, less demanding conditions like soft powder will probably be fine. If you find yourself charging on hardpack and variable snow with a 100+mm ski, you will feel under-powered. For further questions on your deep snow quiver slot, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
The Scarpa F1 LT is not compatible with a shift binding. Officially, Scarpa states that driving a ski wider than 85mm underfoot with the F1 LT will void the warranty.
However, the F1 LT is impressively powerful for its weight, and plenty of folks have driven skis in excess of 85mm using that boot. If you plan to drive wide powder skis with your F1 LTs, less demanding conditions like soft powder will probably be fine. If you find yourself charging on hardpack and variable snow with a 100+mm ski, you will feel under-powered. For further questions on your deep snow quiver slot, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
Answer this question:
2/20/2022
How would one remove the quick clip on the back of the cuff to remove the power strap?
2/21/2022
Thanks for reaching out, Jon. Grabbing the two sides of the black strap, simply pull the quick clip upward and out (gently).
Answer this question:
1/31/2022
If I'm in a 29.5 Dalbello Krypton and Technica Zero G Tour Pro and want to size up for a new lightweight touring boot. If I went with the Scarpa F1 LT, would I likely want to go for the 30 or 31? I believe for the Dalbello and Technica, the 29/29.5 are same shell size. For the Scapra, are 29.5/30 the same shell or 30/30.5? Thanks!
1/31/2022
Hey Jeff, yes that is correct about the shell sizes. It's honestly tricky to say without knowing how the Krypton is fitting you currently. Give us a shout at our Online Boot Fitter so we could give you a more accurate recommendation!
Answer this question:
1/24/2022
Anyone else annoyed by the top power strap falling up the cuff against your shin during uphill use?
Maybe I just need to wrench those suckers down or take a knife to ‘em?
Maybe I just need to wrench those suckers down or take a knife to ‘em?
1/24/2022
Tim- We have seen that happen on some people's legs. You could always remove the power strap altogether using the quick clip on the back of the cuff.
3/28/2022
That used to happen on my Aliens - I tied some really thin cord around the lower fastening (which in this case would be the large power strap closure) and had a loop through which the upper power strap passed. That stopped it riding up (which was super annoying on climbs and sawed into my shin).
Answer this question:
1/15/2022
I’m curious about how these perform with different skis… I’m thinking of mounting a pair of Volkl 90 eights (womens) and skiing them with the f1 lt. 98 underfoot and 1550 g/ski. What are the limits in terms of skis these boots can drive?
1/15/2022
Hi Eliza,
Officially, Scarpa states that driving a ski wider than 85mm will void the warranty on the F1 LT. However, plenty of folks have driven wider skis with great success.
It sounds like you are looking to pair these boots with a pretty beefy ski. I would think you could probably get away with it in softer snow. However, If you are skiing fast on hardpack or variable snow, you will probably want more boot than the F1 LT can provide. For further questions, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
Officially, Scarpa states that driving a ski wider than 85mm will void the warranty on the F1 LT. However, plenty of folks have driven wider skis with great success.
It sounds like you are looking to pair these boots with a pretty beefy ski. I would think you could probably get away with it in softer snow. However, If you are skiing fast on hardpack or variable snow, you will probably want more boot than the F1 LT can provide. For further questions, feel free to reach out to help@skimo.co!
Answer this question:
1/8/2022
Morning guys!
Very exciting boot but still wondering how far can we push it.
What are your thoughts of these boots on "heavy" bc skis as Corvus Freebird?
I absolutely want to try it out but I don't really know what to expect in a downhill performance...
Very exciting boot but still wondering how far can we push it.
What are your thoughts of these boots on "heavy" bc skis as Corvus Freebird?
I absolutely want to try it out but I don't really know what to expect in a downhill performance...
1/8/2022
Hi Marcos, while the F1 LT can keep the reins on some of the lighter 100+ waisted skis, I think the boot may be overwhelmed by a heavier ski such as the Corvus Freebird.
Answer this question:
12/6/2021
Matteo
(used product a few times)
Great boot so far, much better then the RS in the downhill. However During the uphill the walk mechanism emits strange sounds (seems that it’s going to block for downhill). Does anybody had the same experience?
1/10/2022
Hi Matteo, one of my boots has a clicking sound as if some of the plastic is rubbing/catching between the cuff and the boot. I don't think it's the walk mechanism, but it is pretty annoying. Skimoco staff said it wasn't a problem they'd heard of before.
Comment on this review:
About 100 days in, from October couloirs to July glaciers...
Is this a great boot? Yeah, it is. But to me it fell in a weird place. Not light enough to justify its lack of power, not powerful enough to justify the weight.
For a weight savings, you can get the extremely similar Alien RS. For performance, you can pick any of the 1200g boots.
Enjoyed my time in them, well designed and comfortable and capable, but at the end of the day they're still a skimo boot, don't expect to be blasting breakable crust in them.
Is this a great boot? Yeah, it is. But to me it fell in a weird place. Not light enough to justify its lack of power, not powerful enough to justify the weight.
For a weight savings, you can get the extremely similar Alien RS. For performance, you can pick any of the 1200g boots.
Enjoyed my time in them, well designed and comfortable and capable, but at the end of the day they're still a skimo boot, don't expect to be blasting breakable crust in them.
11/29/2021
Hi Jordan, thanks for the feedback! FYI the F1 LT replaced the Alien RS in SCARPA's lineup, so that particular one is no longer an option.
Comment on this review:
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