Rossignol Alltrack 120 Review
Our Verdict
Our Analysis and Test Results
Performance Comparison
Downhill Ski Performance
This boot is approachable and easy to ski in moderate terrain. It has a supportive four buckle design with a functional power-strap. It is adequately predictable and responsive in good and consistent snow conditions. Where the Alltrack was challenged was in steep terrain, variable conditions, and big bumps where the boot was overwhelmed.
The Alltrack is easy to flex while standing still. In some circumstances, this can feel forgiving and easy to ski, but in demanding terrain it made the boots feel weak and unreliable. Aggressive skiers should consider a stiffer boot than the Alltrack 120. For one hundred dollars more, the Rossignol Alltrack Pro 130 is similar in construction but is stiffer and narrower than the model tested in our review. It also comes with a heat moldable liner.
Comfort and Fit
The Alltrack 120 is easy to put on and has an immediately comfortable liner. And its 102 mm last isn't necessarily just for wide feet. Some skiers with average-sized feet prefer a relaxed fit in the toe box and through the instep to allow for better blood flow.
A slightly wider fit is an asset for boots intended for some walking/hiking like the Alltrack. Cramped feet while skinning or hiking can be uncomfortable. All said we didn't find the 102 mm last to feel that much bigger than the 100 mm counterparts in this review.
A walk mode doesn't have to be exclusive to boots intended for long backcountry adventures. It is useful for slogging through the parking lot, trudging up the stairs, and standing in lift lines. Having more mobility in your ankle allows for a more natural stride and lets you relax and stand a bit more straight which is a relief after wearing ski boots that normally lock you into their preferred stance.
Features
The walk mode of the Alltrack 120 did not perform nearly as well as the walk mode of other boots in our review. At most, it allowed the user to stand more upright. Even with the top two buckles undone we only gained a couple of degrees of mobility from the cuff. It was, however, easy to disengage the cuff and we felt no play in the cuff while skiing, which was a relief due to the already soft flex. We don't recommend this model if you are looking for a boot that will crossover to backcountry use at all.
The Sensor Grid Technology featured on the Alltrack series of boots intends to save weight and improve fit by wrapping the foot more closely. We appreciate the attempt at weight savings for long days in the boots, but this trimming of material may have led to some of our concerns regarding the softness of the boots. At a measured weight of 4 lb 14 oz, the size 27.5 Alltrack is not the lightest boot in our review.
We like the liner of the Alltrack boot. It has an excellent heel pocket that is form fitting for a locked in feeling in the boot. The liner comes prepared to accept aftermarket boot warmers, but we found it to be plenty warm as is, which is probably as much due to the relaxed fit of the boot as it is to the Thinsulate Insulation. The laces included with the boot help to hold the tongue in place and increase the wrapping sensation that we like from a liner.
Aftermarket rockered replaceable soles are available to make walking in the Alltracks more natural and comfortable.
Warmth
The Alltrack 120 is one of the highest scoring boots in our warmth ratings. We think this has as much to do with the wider fit as it does with the Thinsulate Insulation that Rossignol uses in the liner. For cold climates and sensitive feet, the liners in these boots can accommodate aftermarket boot heaters without modifying the liner at all.
Best Application
The Alltrack 120 is a good choice for intermediate and upper intermediate skiers or lightweight skiers that have a slightly wider than average foot. Because the walk mode of the Alltrack doesn't allow very much mobility in the ankle, we don't recommend this as a ski touring boot. It would be best to consider the walk mode on this boot as a contribution to comfort while walking around the base area, and maybe a slight performance aid for short hike-to approaches in or near your favorite resort.
Value
This boot is a good value for the skier who skis 20-30 days per year. It also has a walk mode, which sets it apart.
Conclusion
This is a good all-mountain boot for the budget-conscious or for those who only ski a select number of days a year. We give it our Best Buy award for a boot that is on the inexpensive side, but that also performs well. Lightweight and intermediate/upper-intermediate skiers will find the flex rating of this boot to be just right.