"There's more than one way to run gates, and the Diablo goes about it more with brute strength than finesse. It's outside-linebacker solid, with only the extras that really make a difference, like adjustable flex, dual cuff-alignment and an adjustable/removable rear spoiler. It tracks inexorably over frozen corduroy, sacrificing some rebound for pinpoint steering. Sheinberg called the rearward support "all you could ever ask for". It's an attack dog: gnarly and trustworthy."
BEST FOR Beating everyone else in beer league
NOT FOR Thick ankles or prominent ankle bones.
TOP SCORES Steering Power 4.0, Forward Flex 3.9, Rearward Support 3.8

Ultra-High Performance
Zero ramp angle and an aggressive forward lean generate tons of knee angle for powerful edging and steering control. Three's no sitting back in this hyper-reactive package, but if you want utmost precision, this is your boot.
BOOTFITTERS' TAKE: Low volume everywhere. Remove the spoiler and this boot has a more medium-volume fit up top.

ALL MOUNTAIN EXPERT
The Magma has a fantastically accommodating 100-mm forefoot cocoon, which will leave your feet in fighting trim for tomorrow's skiing. It's laden with signature Tecnica technology. The shin-wrapping Rapid Access Cuff swings open for easy entry, and the Dual Pivot Cuff allows customization of the forward flex trajectory. The flex is relatively soft, but the lateral quickness is all there, so there's plenty of steering power. "It makes a natural connection between skier and ski," said Gleason.
BEST FOR Those prone to foot pain.
NOT FOR Tall skiers, who'll need to foot-steer harder.
TOP SCORES Skiing Comfort 3.9, Lateral Response 3.8, Entry/Exit 3.7

High Performance: FRONTSIDE
Rigid white plastic provides plenty of power for aggressive skiers. Softer orange plastic and a hinged cuff make these easy to put on and take off. Generous liner padding and sole pieces keep the ride smooth. The best blend of comfort and performance in the category.
BOOTFITTERS' TAKE: Medium volume everywhere. Cushiony fit with a grabby heel pocket.

HIGH PERFORMANCE: FREERIDE
The same ultra-precise, low-volume shell as the Diablo Race Pro 130, but with a friendlier 120 flex index. The liner collapses when you put the boot on, but once it's on, the Agent's forward lean and zero ramp angle promote good knee and ankle articulation.
BOOTFITTERS' TAKE: Low-volume heel/ankle; low to medium instep; medium toe box. Intimate shell contact and a substantial liner.

With a narrow, low-volume race last, the Agent 120 is bred from World Cup boots, but with freeride features. Working together, the shock absorbing footbed and neoprene toe box tame this beast for citizen use. Adjustments abound with dual forward-flex positions, a movable spoiler, cuff canting, and three-buckle catch positions.

HIGH PERFORMANCE: FREERIDE
Don't want to squeeze your dogs into the 120's 98-millimeter last? Hop into these 100-millimeter comfies. The flex is toned down and entry/exit couldn't be easier, but this Agent's still capable of hard skiing anywhere on the mountain.
BOOTFITTERS' TAKE: Medium heel/ankle/toe-box volume; high-volume instep. Plush liner.

ALL MOUNTAIN EXPERT
The Attiva Pro, sister of the Diablo Pro (Men's AME), scored its highest marks in the performance criteria. It's built on Tecnica's slim race shell and comes with several useful features, though the liner is narrowed and raised at the heel to keep women forward, and the cuff is flared for a woman's calf. A heel cradle snaps in to further reduce volume and add lift. "It skied with precision and finesse, but it's comfortable and easy to flex," said Reigle.
BEST FOR The aggressive expert.
NOT FOR The style-conscious. The look is bland.
TOP SCORES Steering Power 4.0, Forward Flex 3.9, Lateral Response 3.8

The Flame is more laid-back in both fit and attitude than its sister, the Attiva Pro. Tecnica's Rapid access cuff swings open like a door for easy entry and exit and is molded into a shin-hugging curve for accurate wrap. The liner is plush, and testers noted that the adjustments went a long way toward personalizing performance. A snap-in heel cradle snugs up the fit and adds lift. "Fun, maneuverable and supple," said MacConnell.
BEST FOR All-day skiers who don t often stray form the groomed.
NOT FOR Ultra-hard chargers.
TOP SCORES Steering Power 3.6, Forward Flex 3.6, Skiing Comfort 3.5

WOMEN'S HIGH PERFORMANCE
In the Tecnica tradition, the Flame's aggressive forward lean promotes ankle and knee angulation, letting you tip the skis way over on edge. The moderate flex can absorb the chop, but still has enough power for precision. Optional heel-cradle inserts are nice for skinny heels.
BOOTFITTERS' TAKE: Medium volume everywhere. A well-padded, firm feel throughout.

ALL MOUNTAIN CRUISER
This one will guzzle turns down blue runs all day long. All Attivas  Tecnica's women's boots - pay sharp attention to feminine details. The V² 8 is loaded with fit and function features that make it more tunable, comfortable and warm. Our women loved the "fur" liner for both its warmth and feel. The V² 8 can't be pushed too hard or too far from the groomers, but testers admired its user-friendliness. "It has all-day comfort that'll last into the après hours," said MacConnell.
BEST FOR Graceful skiers with wide feet.
NOT FOR Heavier or forceful skiers.
TOP SCORES Entry/Exit 3.7, Adjustability 3.6, Closure System 3.3

ASPIRING EXPERT
Tecnica loads the M12 with useful features that even novices can use. A pull-strap on the tongue eases entry, and the fleece liner |feels great. But there are also personalization features that will make quality turns easier to come by. An adaptive cuff liner and shaft yield a more responsive fit. Make sure the shop tech helps you get properly set up. "Not for high speeds and quick movements," said Lawrence, "but the flex is appropriate, and it has integrity."
BEST FOR High-volume feet and ankles.
NOT FOR Venturing very far beyond blue squares.
TOP SCORES Skiing Comfort 4.4, Entry/exit 4.0, Adjustability 4.0