Want to Upgrade to Radar Strada or Vector Boots

[Ski-me]

So a few years back, I picked up a used, Goode 9800 but did not have enough money for some boots at the time. So I mounted up the good ole' HO 97's which are a double boot system. Looking at them, I'd say they are at least 12-15 years old....they came off of my previous ski, a HO Limited.

So this year, I'd like to get a new pair of boots. I did try a pair of the Vector boots at the boat show and they are definitely comfortable but I'm curious about the Strada boots as well. I'm looking for some input here.....

I did pick up some HO Animals a few years ago but honestly found my old boots to be more comfortable so I never really used them.

My skills....I've done the course a handful of times but mostly free skiing. I'd say 15 off at 34 is my best, so I'm no "hard core" competition skier. I have tried the course more often but after each run, I sit in the water to rest and after about 4 passes, my foot is starting to cramp because the boots are too tight. So I think this will help me ski longer, too.

Who knows the next time I'll get boots..... So, is it worth the extra money for a Strada or should I just stick with the Vector??

[Sullivan]

Can't comment on the Vectors but I can say the Stradas are awesome. They are very comfortable and safe. I have been on the same pair of boots for 2.5 years and have crashed 100s of times with them. I really like the fact that I can spray hot water from the shower in them on the dock and my feet stay warm even in the dead of winter.

They are nice and you can't go wrong.

[19_Skier]

From the reviews I've seen you can't go wrong with either boot. Compared to what you are running right now, you are going to love the comfort they offer and your feet will thank you.

I'd recommend finding a place that will let you try before you buy. Try both boots out and see what works better for you, spending more on the strada's won't be worth it if your aren't comfortable in them. my

[Ski-me]

I'm going to de-winterize our boat on Friday so I plan to check them out in a few days. Do the Strada's basically release by the elastic shoe strings? They don't release from the plate do they?

[east tx skier]

I have the Strada boots on a Radar MPD and agree, they perform well and are very comfortable. A word of advice though, don't crank down the top laces if you want to come out of the boot in a fall. You can crank down the bottom laces, but leave the top laces just snugged up to the boot, but not tightened. This will feel strange at first since you are coming from foam/rubber boots, but it is how these boots can be run safely. After a few sets, you won't notice the loose top feeling when you're skiing.

[Ski-me]

Originally Posted by east tx skier

I have the Strada boots on a Radar MPD and agree, they perform well and are very comfortable. A word of advice though, don't crank down the top laces if you want to come out of the boot in a fall. You can crank down the bottom laces, but leave the top laces just snugged up to the boot, but not tightened. This will feel strange at first since you are coming from foam/rubber boots, but it is how these boots can be run safely. After a few sets, you won't notice the loose top feeling when you're skiing.

Yes I've heard that the top laces are very important and part of the "release" system. I assume, although it initially feels strange, that the overall ski control is excellent? I'm always use to being "locked in" but I look forward to my feet not hurting if I'm sitting in them for a long period of time....

[east tx skier]

My feet definitely do not hurt. Make sure to heat mold the liners to your feet.

[Ski-me]

Any significant differences from the 2011 model compared to the 2012 one?

[WTRSK1R]

Originally Posted by east tx skier

My feet definitely do not hurt. Make sure to heat mold the liners to your feet.

Any suggestions on how to heat mold at home? Just picked up some 2011 stradas off ebay, they are brand new but since I did not buy at a shop I am not sure about the heat molding. Will a hair dryer get them hot enough?

Thanks

[east tx skier]

Put the liners in the oven for 250F for 10 minutes without the instep (I put some foil in between my liners and the rack). Put some WalMart type of thin plastic bags over your feet, then put the liners with insole inserted into the boots, and put your bagged foot in the liner in the boot with the laces cinched down. Leave your feet in there for about 10--15 minutes or so while the boot cools.