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 | |
Related Products
Questions & Reviews
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.
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:
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.
4/14/2023
Michelle, I have an injured left ankle so my outside ankle bone always rubs with any ski boot. I finally cut a quarter-sized hole in the liner. Prior to that, with my older LS Sideral boots, I kept trying to add closed cell pads around my ankle to "protect" it, but it just got too bulky and still semi-painful.
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:
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