Nordica Speed Machine 10 (2006)

Year	2006
Level	Intermediate
Gender	Unisex
MSRP	$655.00
Testers' Average Score	3.70 / 5
Adjustments	3.45 / 5
Closure	3.80 / 5
Comfort	3.80 / 5
Flex	3.60 / 5
Forefoot Fit	3.60 / 5
In-Step Fit	3.60 / 5
Overall Limp	3.80 / 5
Response	3.80 / 5
Steering	3.70 / 5
Support	3.80 / 5
Toebox Fit	3.80 / 5

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Compared to the Speedmachine 14 (see AME/Freeride), the 10 is what you'd expect: noticeably softer, with minor tradeoffs on features that help keep the cost down. The fit is the same-a reasonably snug 100 mm across the forefoot. The flex is appropriate to lighter-weight or less aggressive experts (so don't feel compelled to spend more for too much boot). And the tradeoffs are minor: a narrower power strap (35 mm instead of 45 mm), a non-adjustable spoiler and a less sophisticated stock footbed. What's the same is the Speed-machine's category-leading Ease of Entry. As Wax puts it, "Point toes, push foot, buckle, smile, go skiing."