Alpina ESK Skate Boot

The ESK is light. 611g for one size 42.

The ESK is a no frills, 100% race boot. It puts the foot very close to the ski and allows superior feel for the ski and snow. The titanium/carbon ankle cuff provides super lateral support, yet allows easy ankle flexion.

The ESK wraps a narrow foot nicely, yet opens well for wider feet.

The heel cup is an intelligent use of design and materials. It wraps the heel/achilles/ankle area for a secure hold.

-Waterproof zipper
-Singlepiece overboot
-Elite lacing skate system
-Elastic calf adjustment
-Carbon/ Composite stabilizer
-Carbon/ Composite cuff
-Anatomic racing footbed

With all the features mentioned, it is easy to understand why so many athletes at the recent Olympic Winter Games chose to ski in Alpina boots. That is pretty cool for an independently owned company in Slovenia. They compete well with the larger companies because of a good product. As a small company, they tend to not over-produce the boots. Keep that in mind as there may be limited availability.