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Ski boots are the foundation of your setup—and your technique. A well-fitting pair is worth more than your Ikon pass, your Gore-Tex kit, even your powder skis. They’re your connection to the mountain—the difference between charging and just hanging on.
We found that that the Atomic Hawx Ultra 100 Dual Boa is a great overall choice for the best ski boot, especially if you are just clicking in and sending groomers. It brings welcome forgiveness and comfort while keeping that race-bred responsiveness, and they are super-easy to put on and take off.
Want the lowdown on more great snow sports gear? Check out the rest of Men’s Journal 2025-2026 Ski Awards, where we’ve tested everything from outerwear to après-ski gear to bring you the best of every category—jackets, pants, bindings, and more.
Best Ski Boots of 2025-26
Best Overall Ski Boots: Atomic Hawx Ultra 100 Dual BOA
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The Hawx Ultra line has always been about precision—but previous versions skewed relatively stiff. The Atomic Hawx Ultra 100 Dual Boa model brings welcome forgiveness and comfort while keeping that race-bred responsiveness. Testers raved about how easy the boots were to put on and take off—which is a big advantage when you’re suiting up in your car or having a tug-of-war between your boot and foot at the end of a long, cold day.
Testers—who admittedly love previous Hawx versions—found the boot energetic and responsive, but not overpowering. While expert skiers deemed the boot a “solid ski partner,” intermediate and advanced skiers felt the Hawx Ultra 100 Dual BOA helped them “move to the next level.” The forward lean is especially nice if you’re trying to move from the back seat to the front.
Skiers who have issues with foot pain, especially in their big toes, will appreciate the Hawx Ultra’s new ‘Big Toe Friendly’ construction. The liner has a 3D Stretch toe box that maximizes the liner’s length when you need that extra space for a perfect fit. Other highlights include a Memory Fit cuff and shell that make for a bespoke fit. We liked the dual BOA closure for micro-adjustability to both forefoot and cuff; the system makes it easy to tighten up the fit mid run and then loosen things up on the lift or gondola.
Specs (26.5 Mondo):
- Flex: 100
- Last: 98mm
- Forward Lean: 15 degrees
- Weight: 1,907 grams per boot
- Tech Toe: No
