Bootfitter's Notes: Nordica La Nina Women's Ski Boot
Last week we got a request to review some of the boots for our hard-charging female skiers. First on the docket in the expert female category will be the Nordica La Nina.
The La Nina is a new boot from the ground up, replacing the popular Spitfire, which was an absolute go-to for a high-performance woman’s ski boot at the Start Haus.
Built off the new Doberman shell shape, I’m glad to say we are quite impressed with the La Nina ski boot. The La Nina retains the excellent snug fit of the Spitfire, and has the same great on snow performance, while being a much lighter boot.
Nordica is using a lightweight plastic for the upper cuff of the boot, while keeping the lower polyurethane which is strong, durable, and easily modified by boot fitters.
The on snow feel of the La Nina is terrific; it is powerful, offering great edging ability, and control over the boot in general. I found the alignment to kick me just a hair to the outside edge, which is pretty standard for me, and the stance fairly upright, similar to other competitive models in the class.
The cuff is quite short, which might make it a little tricky to fit for women with longer legs, who may have a tendency to overpower the cuff. At a 90 flex the La Nina can be a great option for anyone seeking a 90-100 flex boot. Those used to 110 flex and up may want to turn their attention toward the Doberman series Nordica offers as they could find the La Nina a bit soft, or go with a competitor’s model.
In terms of overall fit, the La Nina is a snug 98 mm ski boot. My ‘C’ (read medium-narrow) foot was quite aware of the first metatarsal* and as with previous Nordica boots, the instep fit quite low. The heel pocket is nice and snug on the La Nina, and my chicken leg felt quite enveloped in the throat* of the boot, which can be a big problem for me. The liner is well made albeit softer than those of the Doberman series, offering a nice blend of comfort and performance.
The La Nina is a great offering for aggressive ladies seeking a narrow fitting boot with a low instep. Big mountain chargers and hard snow aficionados alike will be more than satisfied with the La Nina, no surprise that Nordica has once again produced a great fitting boot for the aggressive skier.
Terms defined
Metatarsal: The "knuckle" of the toes.
