Scarpa 4-Quattro: the hybrid ski touring boot

OUR TEST OF THE SCARPA 4 QUATTRO

Scarpa is seriously repositioning itself in the freeride-touring niche this season with the 4-Quattro. The Pro version we tested weighs 3kg per pair in 27.0, making it one of the lightest in the category. On the ascent, the range of motion is really significant compared to the lock in descent. It doesn’t feel like a very freeride-oriented boot. Despite the 4 buckles, transitions are rather quick with loops that are quite easy to handle with gloves. The rear lever is also well thought out with a double return that makes handling easier. Only the putting on/taking off is a bit longer due to the different plastics of the overlap shell that need to be well positioned. In descent mode, we are indeed on the best behavior of the Scarpa range with a fairly stiff flex. That said, the announced 130 is, as often, a bit ambitious. The boot still deforms more easily than a real piste boot. There’s plenty to see in touring, but more aggressive skiers will find the limits. The flex is, however, uniform with a support that rises quite high, which is pleasant. The fit is thinner than on the F1 GT, for example, which gives more precision regardless of your foot. In terms of comfort, it’s rather spartan with a fairly stiff liner even if it’s not as thin as on some competing boots. Of course, it depends on your feet, and there’s always a way to bootfit the boot to feel good.

MORE INFO

Scarpa is taking a more serious interest in touring boots focused on downhill performance with the new 4-Quattro. This new boot takes over the niche of the (very) old Freedom, which was significantly heavier with a hybrid alpine/touring program. On the menu: 4 buckles; over-injected carbon inserts for improved precision and torsional rigidity; full-coverage GripWalk sole; Alpine Axial Hybrid construction that allows for the precision and energy transmission of a classic overlap ski boot while adjusting to fit a wide range of foot shapes and allowing for easier entry into the boot. A frictionless magnesium “Speed Lock 4” ski/walk mechanism with a 61° range of motion.

The 4-Quattro is available in 5 versions:

■ the 4-Quattro Pro, flex 130 for 3110g per pair in 27. Grilamid Bio shell and Pebax Rnew cuff with the added Secure Speed Lock 4 closure system.

■ the 4-Quattro SL in Pebax R-new and with a flex announced at 120. 2860g per pair in 27. Available in a Women’s version.

■ the 4-Quattro GT, new this season, flex 110. An intermediate model between the lightweight Quattro SL and the stiffer Quattro Pro. 3,300 g per pair in 27. Available in a Women’s version.

The 4-QUATTRO is the lightest hybrid ski boot on the market with a sole compatible with GripWalk bindings for alpine and touring skiing. The flex at 130 offers incredible impulse transmission and performance, making this boot ideal for skiers seeking sensations on and off-piste.

It features a new Alpine Axial Hybrid construction composed of a combination of tongue and strap connected on the medial side of the shell offering a precise fit at the midfoot and forefoot. This construction will then adapt to a wide variety of foot types and sizes. The QUATTRO thus offers the fit and precision of a classic overlap ski boot, while allowing for easier entry into the boot. But also, excellent impulse transmission in turns and unmatched control! The Presa® SKI-01 sole has an ergonomic design that ensures excellent grip when walking and is compatible with GripWalk-certified downhill or touring bindings. In addition to its technical features, the Quattro is eco-friendly since the shell and cuff are made of Grilamid Bio, produced from renewable plant sources, and the insole made from recycled materials. The shell also contains an over-injected carbon insert that improves impulse transmission to the skis, giving greater precision.

The Power Strap is equipped with Booster technology, which among other things differentiates this model from the Quattro SL for increased power with reduced pressure on the shin and progressive impulse transmission allowing for some performance on skis. Additionally, it is PVC-free and features an integrated RECCO® device for added safety.

The ideal model for those who spend the day in ski boots, whether for riding, teaching, rescuing… and for those who enjoy moments on-piste or off-piste.

FEATURES

■ Flex: 130 (Quattro Pro) / 120 (Quattro SL) / 110 (Quattro GT)
■ Tightening: 4 BUCKLES + STRAP
■ Interchangeable soles: NO
■ Metatarsal width: 100mm
■ Weight: 3110g (Quattro Pro) / 2860g (Quattro SL) / 3300g (Quattro GT)
■ Price: 799€ (Quattro Pro) / 649€ (Quattro SL)