MEN'S SKI BOOT - ATOMIC HAWX PRIME 120

EXPERIENCE

The Hawx Prime 120 is one of the standard foot references for expert skiers.

The quality of the liner offers a snug fit and excellent support.

The efficiency of the shell ensures an immediate transfer to the skis for maximum precision.

HOOK ADJUSTMENT

This boot comes with 4 micro-metric solid aluminium buckles. You can adjust the buckle length by screwing or unscrewing the buckle. The top buckle has 3 positions to fit all calf sizes. A wide, adjustable strap at the top of the upper makes for strong and easy closure at the top of the shell.

PUTTING ON/TAKING OFF

The Hawx Prime is not the easiest shoe to put on/take off, especially when the shoe is cold. But it is one of the most precise when skiing.

WHAT IS THE FLEX?

To provide an indication of boot rigidity, brands assign a flex rating to every boot. This figure indicates the rigidity of the boot: the higher its value, the stiffer the shell. A flex of 60 to 70 is considered best for skiers at beginner level. A flex from 70 to 100 is for intermediate skiers. Beyond this value, the products are aimed at advanced skiers. Heavy builds can, however, go up a level.

What's my shoe size?

The size of ski boots is stated in Mondopoint size. It’s actually the length of the foot in cm.

Wedge your heels along a wall, slide a sheet of paper underneath, flex and measure the longest foot.

For example, if your foot measures 27.2 cm, you should choose size 27/27.5.

A size 27 shoe is exactly the same as a 27.5

How do you know if the boot you are trying on is the right size?

With the foot in the boot, fasten the hooks to the midpoint. Can you go further? This means the volume of the boot isn't right for you. Once your boots are closed, do 3 flexes. Stand up straight: Your toes should touch the tip of the liner. When you flex, your foot should move backwards so you can no longer feel the end. Take into account that the liner foam will be compressed after a few days of skiing.

What should you do if you experience foot pain?

1- Choose a technical ski sock that's thin so it prevents pressure points and promotes blood circulation in the foot.

2- Choose a sole adapted to the shape of your foot to prevent it from being squashed and pressing against the shell. Ask a salesperson in store for advice.

How to store your ski boots?

1- Air your boots by removing the liner that is inside the plastic shells.

2- Fasten the buckles at the first notch to prevent the boots from becoming deformed and, if possible, store them in a boot bag.

3- If possible, store them in a dry place where the temperature will not drop below 10°C. The boot's plastic will thank you for it!

How to try on ski boots?

Once the foot is in the boot, fasten the buckles to the midpoint. Can you go further? This means the volume of the boot isn't right for you. Once the boot is closed, you must flex the boots 3 times by pressing hard on the shins (put your hands on your knees to help) and push your heel backwards inside the boot. Stand upright: your foot should touch the end of the shell. When you flex, your foot should move backwards so you can no longer feel the end.

HOW TO AVOID HAVING COLD FEET?

Although it is often forgotten, drying the liner is the most effective way to avoid having cold feet. Even at -10°C, the foot sweats and the liner cannot dry by itself in its plastic shell, even over several days. Ideally, it should be removed every day. There is the option to use boot dryers that are more convenient because there is no need to remove the liner, you just plug them in!

Is my liner thermoformable, and what use is thermoforming?

The Hawx Prime 120 is thermoformable at the ankle. The thermoforming reduces certain pressure points. This is more or less like skiing in the boot for 2 or 3 days.