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2025

Best Free boots 2025

Skialper's Awards

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    Made for descent

    Though the protagonists and main awards in this class may change, the common goal of the freeride category, namely downhill performance, remains the same. The extra weight over touring boots means a preference for shorter ascents, while the ankle flex is generally limited by the friction created by the rigidity of the plastics. This is the price to pay in order to have adequate front and rear support.

    Boot of the year

    Lange XT3 Free 140 Pro Model LV GW

    This boot’s restyling coupled with its many upgrades convinced us, especially regarding its downhill performance. Precision, responsiveness, and power transfer while skiing are comparable to an alpine boot without a ski walk mechanism. A daily driver freeride tool with a rigid-yet-progressive flex for handling the off-balance moves and physical forces created by skiers who exploit the elastic properties modern materials offer.

    Pro's choice

    Scarpa 4-Quattro Pro

    It extends outside this class as it maintains unrivalled touring mobility and character compared to the average in the category, whilst also assuring decent rigidity for piloting wide skis. With its selective and precise fit, it wins the award in this case dedicated to professionals working in the rather than big mountain pro riders.

    People's choice

    Salomon Shift Pro 130 AT

    Responsive, practical to use and enhanced comfort for most feet. Ideal for those who ski only a few weeks a year and are seeking forgiving yet reliable tools. They walk well enough for the usual freerider missions, and are versatile in descent across very diverse terrain types.

    Smart choice

    Atomic Hawx Prime XTD 130 BOA GW

    The worthwhile choice for those seeking to do a bit of everything but don't want to—or cannot—buy a specific tool. In keeping with market trends, they employ a Boa closure system for the shell, and are snug and comfortable for resort skiing. The ski/walk mech provides decent ankle movement, ideal for the typical freerider stride pattern.

    I premiati
    tested 2025
    Boots
    Free
    Lange
    XT3 Free 140 Pro Model LV GW
    Buckles: 4
    Weight: 1.915 g
    tested 2025
    Boots
    Free
    Atomic
    Hawx Prime XTD 130 Boa GW
    Buckles: 2
    Weight: 2.017 g
    tested 2025
    Boots
    Free
    Salomon
    Shift Pro 130 AT GW
    Buckles: 4
    Weight: 1.693 g
    tested 2026
    Boots
    Free
    Scarpa
    4-Quattro Pro
    Buckles: 4
    Weight: 1.555 g
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