Mode Switch Ski Boot— Buckling, unbuckling, and adjusting tech ski boots when transitioning from tour to ski mode takes time. But with the F1 Evo from Scarpa there’s no need — just step into the binding and the boot automatically locks for downhill control; release the heel from the binding and the boot switches to walk mode without a single adjustment from the user.
Beyond that neat touch, these are bomber high-end boots, including a carbon-fiber frame, Boa closure system, and a light weight at about 2 pounds, 7 ounces per boot. $699; available in fall 2014
