Telemark Talk / Telemark Tips Forum

Well… it is with some trepidation that I’ve read of potential problems with my Alpina Alaska 75 boots. Hopefully, I won’t have any problems. However, I happened across some leather boots that looked like they would give the support I’m looking for on EBay, and offered $40 for them with the idea that they would make decent back-ups for use on my Hoks and Spider 62s. “Tour” is embossed on the tongue. This was totally impulse. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Are these decent boots?

The soles on old boots can fall off. Something about the old glue failing. I would give them a few test runs not far from the car before committing to a longer tour. I have some old tele boots (merrel ultra) and the quality of those old boots is superior to the new ones. Fortunately the sole has not fallen off but I will probably get them resoled this summer. Even buying an old tele boot, sending it to david page in seattle to get resoled, is a better value than something like the alaska.

They look like nice boots, a quality purchase!
I think they would be a better match for the Hoks, but if the flex is soft enough you may like them with Spyders when they might not track so well with the Alaska. I’ve got 3 or 4 seasons on my Alaska 75, but I own 4 pair of boots and the Alaska BC probably gets the most use.

JB TELE wrote: ↑

Tue Mar 21, 2023 9:25 pm

The soles on old boots can fall off.

Looks like the soles are in pretty good shape to me. I suppose it’s hard to tell until I get them.

Same breed as the other fine Italian made Nowegian welted boots of the classic era, including a full leather gusset and cuff. One thing appears different to me; looks like the ankle cuff is a single thickness of leather. I don't remember seeing any that way. If so, I wonder if the entire boot is unlined.
Which could still be a fine boot, with good socks and insole. Might want to give 'em a cleaning and some fresh conditioner. I keep my eyes open for that sort of boot as well, think I have the same 3 or 4 seasons on them as fisheater... so far so good.

phoenix wrote: ↑

Tue Mar 21, 2023 10:22 pm

One thing appears different to me; looks like the ankle cuff is a single thickness of leather. I don't remember seeing any that way. If so, I wonder if the entire boot is unlined.

I think the boot is lined based on the picture below. It looks like just the very top of the tongue is a single layer.

Yup, I see it now. Nice find!

Nice boots, they look like they might have 20 more years left in them, but you never know. The only structural problem I ever had with old boots was a crack in the sole at the pin line. That happened after my wife and I booted up a trail, all four boots failed the same way on the same day.

Other than that they will probably ski downhill better than almost anything on the market today. I wouldn't be surprised if they became your "go to" boot if your looking for downhill fun.