Big descents that demand a real alpine feel and a long enough approach to want walk mode are exactly the use case for the all-new Tecnica Zero G Decoy Pro GW. The brand-new Decoy line splits the difference between Tecnica's downhill-oriented Cochise and the lightweight Zero G touring family, with a polyurethane shell, a 99mm last, a co-injected Grilamid and fiberglass cuff, 65 degrees of cuff motion, and Vibram GripWalk soles with tech inserts. Skiers get a 130-flex downhill feel in a boot built to handle uphill miles.

Why we like it:

The 65-degree range of motion in the cuff is the difference-maker. That's a real touring boot ROM, not a token walk mode, and it's paired with downhill performance that holds up on big skis in serious terrain.

Who it's for:

Advanced and expert backcountry-freeride skiers who want one boot that legitimately handles long approaches and aggressive descents. Skiers who refuse to compromise on the downhill in pursuit of weight savings, but also won't tolerate a stiff boot that fights them on the uphill.

Highlights:

This is a brand-new boot for 2027, built specifically around the Vibram GripWalk soles with tech inserts that work seamlessly with both pin bindings and alpine GripWalk bindings. The shell is high-performance polyurethane with a more robust Power Frame than a typical touring boot, which is where the downhill feel comes from. The cuff is co-injected Grilamid and fiberglass, balancing stiffness with the lighter weight needed for skinning. The Ecodesign High Performance Full C.A.S. liner with floating tongue and laces-ready construction handles the fit, and a 65-degree walk mode opens up for the climb. Four micro-adjustable aluminum buckles and a Performance Elastic Power Lock hard strap lock everything in for the descent. C.A.S. shell and liner are both fully heat-moldable.

Things to consider:

This is a hybrid boot, so it's not the lightest option for skiers focused exclusively on uphill miles. The Zero G Tour Pro is lighter and faster on the climb but gives up downhill performance. Aggressive freeride skiers who never tour would be better served by the standard Cochise 130. The 99mm last also runs on the snugger side of medium-volume, so wider feet may struggle.

Fit & sizing considerations:

Sizing follows standard mondopoint conventions. The 99mm last fits medium-volume feet without being especially generous on width. Heat-moldable C.A.S. shell and liner give meaningful customization range, and an experienced bootfitter is the right call to set up the walk mode and fit before you head into bigger terrain.