The latest version of the Mach 1 unveiled by Tecnica does not deviate from the reputation of excellence of this ski boot. We Rock Sport spoke with Matteo Murer, product manager of the Italian brand.
What was the main idea behind the creation of the Mach 1?
The Mach 1 has always been our best performing boot, so we wanted to continue that with the latest version we worked on. First, every detail of this boot was designed to give the skier the best possible performance, that was the priority. The second most important factor was comfort. That's why we put a lot of emphasis on the CAS technology, which allows the boot to be adjusted to the individual user.
What is this revolutionary new connection between the shell and the collar called T-Drive?
The principle of this technology was to give an additional efficiency and comfort to the boot. This connection between the collar and the shell was made of carbon and thus allows a better transmission of the power of the boot, an improved flex and a better performance on the skis. Laterally, there is also more stability and less deformation of the plastic because the power comes from the rear and this is where the Mach 1 offers its best performance. As for comfort, with the T-Drive providing the support, this allowed us to give the boot a softer shell and collar to fit each foot as well as possible.
The figures for energy transmission, power, stability and material deformation are much better in the Mach 1. How do you measure this change in performance from one shoe to another?
We work with universities that measure in the lab the deformation of the plastic, the overall flex of the boot under tension, the power it returns... Of course, we don't just do these lab tests, we also go out on the slopes to confirm these numbers. We did a lot of tests in real conditions comparing the impressions of skiers with a boot that was not equipped with T-Drive technology and another that was. Clearly, it was easier to maneuver and safer to ski with the T-Drive equipped boot. I can speak for myself because I use the Mach 1 LV myself.
How did you manage to reduce the weight of 20% on the latest version of the Mach 1?
Compared to the old version, we used other types of materials, but they still had the same technical characteristics, because it was obviously out of the question that the lower weight of the shoe would lead to a loss of efficiency. The use of carbon in several parts of the Mach 1 has allowed us to achieve this reduced weight and by saving 5 or 10 grams in different areas, the final weight is significantly lower than the old version of the shoe. And all this without affecting its performance on the slopes.
For which type of skier do you recommend the Mach 1?
It is a boot that is primarily aimed at skiers who seek performance on the slopes, for those who push hard. But it is also a boot that corresponds well to the practice of freeride. We have several pro skiers who use them in these conditions. And the fact that we decided to market them in three volumes of 98 mm, 100 mm and 103 mm also allows us to reach a wide range of users.
With which skis would you ideally recommend it?
They fit perfectly with the Blizzard WRC. This is the configuration we tested them in when we designed them. When you're on your first lift of the day, and it's cold and the snow is still hard, the Mach 1 will respond perfectly to these conditions, even if you want to push hard.
Find the Mach 1 and the different Tecnica models on Private Sport Shop at this address.
