Rossignol Zenith Z14 (2008)

Predictably, the most expensive AE boot topped the category in all the performance criteria. Testers thought the Z14 could compete one level higher, and in this boot, so can you. It’s a wide-body with a roomy instep, but a stout flex gives it integrity. All systems are solid and well-designed, and the buckles, especially, have a wide adaptation range. “It out-skied the rest of the category,” said Hoffman. “The liner has quite a bit of density, and the shell is anatomically shaped.”

Best For

Future hard-chargers, especially those with meaty feet.

Not For

Incorrigible skidders.