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There is tons of info out there comparing the TLT6 to the TLT5, but I have not found much in the way of a direct comparison to the Maestrale RS. Anyone have time on both and can compare how they ski. I am sure the TLT6 is better climber, but I want to know about how they are on the down.
Cheers!
I have both. Skied the 6 last Spring and a few times so far this Fall in perfect spring conditions.
Short version? It isn't always about the skiing. The TLT6 is a hiking boot you can ski in. The RS is a ski boot you can hike in. The weight difference in my 29s-6s and a 28-RS is only 4 oz per boot. I fit the 6 like a climbing boot and the RS like a ski boot. They ski pretty much the same if fit the same. 6 is a full on ski boot when required. But it is a 2 buckle ski boot. The RS is a 4 buckle ski boot. Durability is an issue when makein gthe comparison as well. I've not had issues with either boot. But I'd bet the RS will last a lot longer given the same amount of use/care.
The boot I really want to compare to these two is the La Sportiva Spectra.
^^^ Thanks for your insights. It seems like the differences (and likenesses for that matter) are not black and white.
At least from my personal perspective more clear than you might think off hand. If you are going to be doing a lot of skinning, boot pack or using boot crampons TLT6 is my answer. The shorter sole (toe) length, rocker and additional ROM in the cuff is why. Also the tinker toy approach to the boot from a full on ski boot to a decent walking/climbing boot without tongue and power strap. Lots of options on the TLT boots. Side hill, resort and back country where there is no chance of needing a boot crampon the RS is the boot I choose. The 4 buckles, more long term durability of a traditional ski boot, fit and clumsier walk mode the reason.
If you can afford the TLT6 P and if they fit your foot, I would recommend them over the RS. But those can be pretty big "ifs" depending upon one's wallet and foot
Edit: this is assuming you plan primarily on touring and little/no resort use.
Assuming both boots fit you well. I'd make the decison based on use, not on your wallet. They are both good boots. Just different design perspectives for different uses. TLT Series is a ski mountaineering boot in the true Euro sense IMO. And while the RS is a decent ski touring and may be a better ski boot no one made the effort to really make it a ski mountaineering friendly boot from a climber's point of view. Scarpa built the Alien 1 for that, after seeing what the DyNA technology (where the TLT came from) could do.
Tried the spectra....... not for me. The buckles just about made me loose my mind. PITA. It is light in would call it a mid volume fit with a pretty low instep.
Haven't gotten to try the TLT6 yet. If it fits like the tlt 5 and skis better than it is a toss up between the RS and that boot.
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