Finding the right ski boot fit is crucial for both comfort and performance on the mountain. For backcountry enthusiasts, the Salomon MTN Lab boot has become a popular choice, known for its blend of uphill efficiency and downhill capability. Understanding the nuances of its fit, particularly concerning the last and sizing, is essential for any skier considering this boot. This guide delves into the fitting characteristics of the Salomon MTN Lab, drawing on expert reviews and insights to help you determine if it’s the right boot for you and how to achieve an optimal fit.
Understanding the 98mm Last of the Salomon MTN Lab
The foundation of any ski boot’s fit lies in its last, the three-dimensional model around which the boot is constructed. The Salomon MTN Lab is built upon a 98mm last, a measurement referring to the width of the boot at the widest part of the forefoot, typically measured in a size 26.5. This 98mm last is derived from the acclaimed Salomon X-Max alpine boot series, but with a notable adjustment. Salomon wisely incorporated a touch more instep volume into the MTN Lab, a modification widely appreciated by skiers.
It’s important to address a common misconception regarding boot widths. Some reviews have mistakenly criticized the MTN Lab for being too narrow, arguing for a wider design. However, this perspective misses a crucial point: the MTN Lab’s 98mm last is genuinely a 98mm last. In an industry where some “98mm” boots can inflate to 100mm or even 101mm, the MTN Lab remains true to its stated width. For skiers who prefer a precise, snug fit in a touring boot, this adherence to a true 98mm last is a significant advantage. It ensures efficient energy transfer and responsiveness, particularly valued in backcountry skiing.
Salomon Boot Sizing: A Note on Running Big
Salomon ski boots, in general, are known to size a bit larger compared to some other brands. This characteristic is important to consider when selecting your MTN Lab size. Experiences with other Salomon boots, like the alpine-oriented X Pro 120 (featuring a 100mm last), demonstrate this sizing tendency. Reviewers have reported downsizing significantly from their measured foot size to achieve an ideal fit in Salomon boots.
For the MTN Lab, which lacks a heat-moldable shell and features a narrower 98mm last, the sizing approach becomes even more critical. A common strategy for 98mm last boots is to downsize one full size from your measured Brannock device size. In the case of the MTN Lab, this approach has proven successful. Extensive testing in the MTN Lab, with just a swap to custom footbeds, has validated the effectiveness of downsizing by one size. This resulted in a comfortable yet performance-oriented fit right out of the box, without requiring shell modifications.
Detailed Fit Analysis: Instep, Heel, and Toe Box
Moving beyond just last width and sizing, a comprehensive bootfitters guide must consider the nuances of fit in different areas of the foot. The MTN Lab excels in instep height, offering what many find to be an “ideal” volume. It strikes a balance, avoiding both excessive roominess that can lead to a vague feel and excessive tightness that restricts circulation during touring.
Comparing the MTN Lab to alpine benchmark boots provides further clarity on its fit profile. While the stated boot sole length (BSL) of a size 26.5 MTN Lab is 301mm, it can feel comparable or even slightly longer than alpine boots like the Fischer RC4 (BSL 308mm), Tecnica Mach 1 LV (BSL 305mm), and Lange RX 130 LV (BSL 306mm) in the same size.
In terms of heel hold, the MTN Lab performs admirably, aligning closely with these high-performance alpine boots. While it may not represent the absolute pinnacle of heel retention, it offers a secure and satisfactory hold, preventing excessive heel lift without feeling constricting.
Width-wise, from the midfoot back to the heel, the MTN Lab mirrors the fit of the Fischer RC4 130, Tecnica Mach 1 LV, and Lange RX 130. However, a key difference emerges in the forefoot. The MTN Lab provides noticeably more width in the toe box and instep area compared to the narrower Fischer RC4 and Tecnica Mach 1 LV. It aligns more closely with the Lange RX 130 LV in this region, to the point where transitioning between the MTN Lab and RX 130 feels seamless in terms of fit. This balance of a snug midfoot and heel with a more accommodating forefoot contributes to the MTN Lab’s comfortable touring performance without sacrificing downhill precision.
Jonathan Ellsworth reviews the Salomon MTN Lab for Blister Gear Review
Salomon MTN Lab boot fitting guide – Jonathan Ellsworth of Blister Gear Review demonstrating boot flex in backcountry setting.
Forward Lean Adjustments
Forward lean, the angle of the boot cuff relative to the lower shell, significantly impacts skiing style and performance. The Salomon MTN Lab comes with a stock forward lean of 13.5 degrees. Recognizing that skiers have varying preferences, Salomon thoughtfully includes adjustable brackets that allow reducing the forward lean to 12.5 degrees. This customization enables skiers to fine-tune the boot’s stance to match their skiing style and terrain.
Stiffness and Flex: Decoding the “120 Flex” Rating
Ski boot flex ratings can be subjective and brand-specific. While Salomon markets the MTN Lab as a “legit alpine 120 flex” boot, independent assessments suggest it skis stiffer than a typical 120 flex rating. In reality, the MTN Lab’s stiffness is more accurately comparable to boots in the 130 flex range.
This “stiffer-than-rated” flex is not a marketing exaggeration but rather a testament to the boot’s robust construction and downhill performance intentions. Comparisons to established 130 flex alpine boots like the Lange XT 130, Salomon X Max 130, Lange RX 130 LV, Tecnica Mach 1 LV, and Fischer RC4 130 confirm this assessment. Therefore, skiers who require the highest level of stiffness beyond these benchmark alpine boots might need to explore even stiffer options, but for a vast majority, the MTN Lab provides ample support for aggressive backcountry and resort skiing.
Walk Mode Efficiency
A defining feature of any touring boot is its walk mode mechanism, designed to enhance uphill mobility. The MTN Lab employs a robust and efficient walk mode system. When locked for skiing, it exhibits virtually no play, offering a solid and direct connection. Compared to other touring boots, like the K2 Pinnacle 130 which can have noticeable cuff movement even when locked, the MTN Lab’s walk mode stands out for its rigidity. Expert evaluations have deemed any movement in the MTN Lab’s cuff when locked as “basically immeasurable,” ensuring efficient power transfer and control on the descent. This tight lock translates to a responsive and confident skiing experience.
Liner Comfort and Customization
The Salomon MTN Lab is equipped with a fully thermomoldable stock liner constructed from Alveo Foam. This liner is designed to be comfortable and functional straight out of the box, but its thermomoldable nature allows for further customization to optimize fit. While Alveo Foam may not offer the same level of customizability as Intuition Foam, Salomon emphasizes its enhanced durability and resistance to packing out over time.
Real-world experience with the MTN Lab liner confirms these claims. Initial impressions often highlight a snug and precise fit. Over time, the liner naturally compresses slightly, becoming even more comfortable without sacrificing support. The liner is reported to be warm, comfortable, and robust, with a stiff tongue that contributes to downhill performance without hindering uphill movement. For most users, the stock liner proves to be highly satisfactory, negating the need for aftermarket replacements.
Conclusion: Is the Salomon MTN Lab Right for You?
The Salomon MTN Lab carves out a strong position as a high-performing touring boot, particularly for skiers prioritizing a precise and responsive fit. Its true-to-size 98mm last, coupled with a slightly generous instep and thoughtfully designed liner, caters to a wide range of foot shapes while maintaining a performance-oriented feel. The adjustable forward lean and stiffer-than-rated flex further enhance its versatility for both backcountry adventures and resort skiing.
For skiers seeking a boot that balances uphill efficiency with robust downhill capabilities, the Salomon MTN Lab is an excellent contender. Understanding its fit characteristics, as outlined in this bootfitters guide, is the first step in determining if it’s the right boot for you. While this guide provides valuable insights, consulting with a qualified bootfitter for a personalized assessment remains the best approach to ensure optimal ski boot fit and performance.
