Hybrid boots - resort performance?

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Originally Posted by jummo

If all you ever ski in is a hybrid boot, you will think they ski just fine.
If you own a proper alpine boot as well, you will know that it isn't true.
Not at all complicated.

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It depends.

On race skis, I can absolutely appreciate the difference between my TI 130s and my Hawx XTDs, and it's not just the dramatic difference in stiffness--the TI transmits energy much more quickly and powerfully in all directions. It also keeps me more honest--if I don't have my weight in the right place both laterally and fore/aft, I don't get the response I want from the skis.

On all-mountain skis with Shifts, the performance loss isn't as dramatic (IMO), although I'll admit I haven't tried a proper A/B test recently.

The downside of that better energy transfer is that my knees and back hurt a lot more quickly in the race boots because the energy transfer back up from the snow is better, too. A teenager shouldn't have the same knee/back concerns, but depending on training level and future goals, the relative forgiveness of a downhill-oriented hybrid boot may be appreciated.

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Originally Posted by gregL

They are both GripWalk now. At his weight, I think the hybrid solution should work fine, wait until he has a job to go the dedicated alpine and touring boot route.

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Would a 120 flex hybrid be appropriate for his weight? He charges but last year was on 90 flex.

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Originally Posted by slcdawg

Would a 120 flex hybrid be appropriate for his weight? He charges but last year was on 90 flex.

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I would guess 110 would be better at his weight, but there isn't a "right" answer . . . if he gets taller, heavier or skis like a movie star, go stiffer.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by jummo

If all you ever ski in is a hybrid boot, you will think they ski just fine.
If you own a proper alpine boot as well, you will know that it isn't true.
Not at all complicated.

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I have XT3-130 and old RS plugs. Plugs ski like plugs, the XT3 skis like an XT3-130. Both are fantastic. There is no one boot quiver.

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Originally Posted by halliday

I have XT3-130 and old RS plugs. Plugs ski like plugs, the XT3 skis like an XT3-130. Both are fantastic. There is no one boot quiver.

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That's all there should be for a 15 year old unless they are buying their own boots with their own money. Won't argue for an adult.