RONinPC's Full Review: Nordica Speedmachine Ski Boots Men's
I've skied Nordica boots for six years now, switching from Lange 120's to the Dobermann Pro 130, and then recently to the Dobermann Aggressor 150.
So why am I reviewing the Speed Machine? Because every ski boot starts with a basic concept of "how we ski". In my opinion, Nordica has among the best initial stances you'll find. Initial Stance means the combination of ramp angle (the height of the heel in relation to the height of the toe), bootboard shape (is the ramp flat, or does it curve), forward lean (the angle of the cuff as it relates to ramp angle), and direction of flex.
The Speed Machine is precise, quick, well-suited to adjustment (not a lot of extra things that interfere with punches); it is stiff enough for most advanced skiers.
If you were the type of skier who skis a boot right out of the box, this one would be pretty darn close to what you would need- assuming you have a Nordica last (shape of your foot).
What you need to know, however, is that my perspective on this boot means very little, we don't buy boots, we buy boot fitters. A good boot fitter will first identify which boot most closely aligns with the shape of your foot, and will go from there. Next, a footbed will help place your foot in a more neutral position- so that you can best utilize your ankle inside the boot. Areas of blockage are punched to allow for better movement. Then, slight ramp angle adjustments can be made to affect your point of effort (and balance). Your boot cuff can be aligned to center your heel laterally, and finally, your boot sole can be ground to adjust "canting" or how your feet orient to the earth.
My boots are punched, lifted, ground, and ramped to within .5 degrees- they are nothing like the boot I started with. In fact, the 150 tongue is still too firm, the 130 was better for my preferred terrain.
For most skiers, the Speed Machine is a great starting point. Buy it (if it fits), and then have it perfected by your local boot fitter.
Nordica Speedmachine 10 Ski Boots - Men's -- Power and precision meet outstanding fit in the Nordica SpeedmachineŽ 10 ski boots, delivering high-end ...More at REI
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