This is our extended breakdown between two downhill-capable XCD boots: The Scarpa T4 vs Crispi Svartisen. We dive deep in this video to break down the similarities, differences, and suggested binding pairings to get the most out of your setup.
The Scarpa T2 is a more supportive boot than lighter crossover plastics. It has the stiffness and lateral support to drive most skis with confidence. That means the boot is not the limiting factor in this system, and we can approach ski and binding selection from a very practical angle.
The Scarpa T4 sits in a very specific place in the telemark world. Pair it with the right binding and ski, and you get an efficient, versatile system that covers ground and still delivers confident telemark turns. Pair it wrong, and the system could feel mismatched.
For hardboot splitboarders, the toe piece is the heart of the uphill system. The design looks simple: two pins and a locking mechanism. But the way each brand executes those details determines everything about stride efficiency, uphill stability, and long-term durability.
Welcome to the extended breakdown of our two favorite leather 3-pin XCD tele boots. In this video, we go deep… I mean really deep. Luckily, we broke it up into chapters so you can jump to the talking points that pique your interest. Otherwise, continue below for a full transcription of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Alpina Alaska 75 …
Your season doesn’t start with the first snowfall. It starts now. The lull between summer and ski season might feel quiet, but for the prepared skier or splitboarder, it’s one of the most important times of the year. This is when you lay the foundation for safer tours, smoother transitions, and bigger mileage once winter hits. From gear checks to …
Cross-country downhill (XCD) skiing might sound like a throwback—something your uncle’s leather boots and a dusty pair of fish scales would be better suited for than a modern backcountry kit. But here’s the truth: XCD skiing is having a quiet resurgence, and it’s worth paying attention to. Why XCD Skiing is Back On The Rise While tech bindings, climbing skins, …
If you’re here, you probably already know: not all straps are created equal. And while the Original Voile Strap has earned its status as a backcountry essential, it’s only the beginning of the story. From Nano to XL, Rack to Extender, Voile’s growing lineup of purpose-built straps means there’s a perfect tool for just about every task… if you know …
You just got a new pair of Voile skis. You added a binding to the order. And as part of that package, we mounted them up and gave them a final pass before shipping them your way. But then you notice something else included in the package: “A detune? What does that mean?” It’s a fair question. The word doesn’t …
When picking out a backcountry ski or splitboard, there’s a lot to consider—shape, flex, width, weight—but one factor that often gets overlooked is construction. Yet, the way a ski or board is built has a huge impact on how it tours, rides, and holds up in the long run. At the core of this decision is the debate… cap vs …
