Salomon X3-RC CS (2010)

Borrowing the precise anatomical fit from Salomon’s Falcon series, the X3-RC CS is a friendly race boot that won’t punish you for straying off-piste. It’s wickedly accurate on the steepest, iciest pitches. CS means “custom shell,” a concept that involves two heat-moldable panels—one on either side of the lower boot—that customize your shell fit. PLUS: Out-of-box fit is unparalleled. MINUS: Name sounds like an obscure corporate spreadsheet.