January/February 2008 Features  |
Alpina’s TCS race boot, which previously used a The SCL boot with a Posi-fit that pushes the heel down, not forward, remains the same except for the introduction of a carbon cuff.
The RS is a race performance skate boot for the cost conscious. Its classic counterpart, the RC, adopts the same construction as an earlier version of the SCL. The RSD is a new boot, similar to the RS, but with the NNN Racing PU Sole vs. the R3 Pebax skate sole in the RS.
Brand new in Sport Performance Line are the Eve 40 and 30 women’s boots.
The Eve 40 is a new boot with a new women-specific last, auto-fit padding around the ankle and heel, and a new velutina lining. The Eve 40 provides better comfort and foot hold. The last, through use or application of heat, will mold to the foot. This boot is designed for the skier looking for the combination of looks and skating performance. Alpina’s Sport Performance line uses construction similar to the Eve series, but with a unisex last and different cosmetics.
In its touring class tier of boots, Alpina’s TR 50 has a fully articulating cuff, more support and is stiffer. These improvements extend through the line and include two ladies’ versions with women’s fit, and the new Eve 50 version with a women’s cosmetic package. There is no Eve version TR 25, however, just men’s and ladies’. It has been redesigned from last year’s model with more reinforcement in the metatarsal area, a dual density sole, Thinsulate and a full lace cover.
In the backcountry department, highlights of Alpina’s boot line for next season include the BC 2050 with an asymmetrical cuff, similar to that used to on the WC race boot. The BC 2075 is the same boot with the addition of a 75mm sole.
The BC 1560 is a new offering with an Alpitex waterproof membrane (a proprietary Alpina technology). Though the BC 1550 sees no changes, Alpina’s 1550 L is a new sturdy backcountry boot anatomically designed for women with a narrower women's last. Its beefy, durable construction is designed to provide great fit and comfort for all-day touring. A plastic cuff and flexible, yet stiff BC sole give the boot great stability and control on steep descents. Other features include a plastic heel counter – stiff and light construction that cups the heel in perfect position, Thinsulate insulation and an anatomically shaped footbed. The BC 1575 is a 75mm version of the 1550.
Finally, the BC 200 will for the first time offer Thinsulate in an entry-level boot. A women’s last is employed in the ladies’ 200LK counterpart.
Highlighting Alpina’s skis this season are a scuff coat on the top sheet throughout the line. Alpina’s Control Ski is now available in NIS with Solution Sizing in four sizes. The Wave a new junior waxless recreational ski , will be available in sizes up to 177 cm. With the departure of Madshus from the Alpina Sports stable of brands, the company has placed more emphasis on Start. In addition to its venerable line of kick and glide waxes, Start products include Grip Tape and Glide Wipes. Effective January 1, 2008, Alpina will take over distribution of all Exel products in North America, including Nordic and alpine poles, racing equipment, roller and in-line poles, and trekking and Nordic walking equipment. Exel will close its company-run North American distribution centers effective January 2009. |
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carbon band in the cuff, has evolved to a Titanium weave that provides more bounce back and flex with decreased weight. Otherwise it stays the same, except for some basic cosmetic changes and an improved zipper, stronger stitching with a new wrap-around lacing system from underneath to over the foot for better fit and greater control. A heel adjustment device tweaks the fit in the heel and improves heel retention. 
For juniors, there’s the RJ junior boot in sizes up to 42. This is really more of a combi boot that Alpina touts as “the best junior racing boot on market.” It has a full polyurethane sole and upper. For 2007-2008, the RJ will see cosmetic changes only. 
