Telemark Boots
On This Page
Top Picks
How we choose: The best telemark boots highlighted here were selected based on 12 reviews of 6 products. Our top picks are those that are readily-available in the United States and have received the highest overall ratings from reviewers.
How we test: Trailspace is powered entirely by our community of readers. The reviews posted here reflect the real-world experiences of outdoor enthusiasts just like you.
If you've used a telemark boot that you think should be listed here, please share your experience.
Disclosure: Trailspace never accepts payment for gear reviews, product placement, or editorial coverage. When you buy through affiliate links on our site, Trailspace may earn a small commission, which helps cover the costs of running the site.
Alfa Free A/P/S GTX
A high-end boot for the Rotteffella's new Xplore backcountry binding system. Torsionally rigid sole and ankle stiffeners for downhill performance. BOA lacing for easy entry and exit plus Xplore's step-in and-out functionality add up to a lot of convenience. A great choice for tours-for-turns type skiing, especially hut-to-hut with downhill fun on the side.
Reasons to Buy
- Solid design and construction
- Torsionally rigid Xplore sole and ankle stiffeners give good turning performance in a (mostly) leather boot
- Dial-in BOA lacing system for easy entry, exit, and adjustment
- Step-in and -out convenience with Xplore binding
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavy compared to some other Xplore boots
- BOA not for everyone?
- Soft rubber heel vulnerable to damage
Alfa Free boot + Xplore binding = freedom + fun The Norwegian outdoor footwear company Alfa was one of the first to produce ski boots compatible with the Rottefella’s new Xplore backcountry binding system. This review of the Free, Alfa’s top-of-the-line offering, goes along with my reviews of the Xplore binding and the Åsnes Rabb 68 ski, which I purchased together as a package deal. I have been test driving the system mainly in Bymarka, a big city forest park in Trondheim with a couple hundred kilometers of groomed xc ski trails and a lot of untracked space in between, including some quality powder stashes, but also on some forays into the Norwegian mountains.
Read more: Alfa Free A/P/S GTX review (1)
Meindl Nordic 3-Pin Backcountry Leather Ski Boots
Telemarking is not dead and neither are these boots. Incredible value for money, these boots have lasted me over 30 years. Not much of my gear has done as well as these boots. But after 30 years I am ready for an upgrade.
Reasons to Buy
- Quality
- Robustness
- Comfort
- Longevity
Reasons to Avoid
- No longer made
- Need treatment
- Pin holes slightly elongated
- Minor cracking
I bought these beautiful Meindl duckbill 3-pin or 75mm boots in the 1980s. They cost a lot of money back then. Pulled them out again this year for a short cross-country / back-country adventure and they still impressed. I never dreamed that they would last 30 (+) years, but they have. Meindl have been making hiking boots since 1683, well over 300 years. I am surprised that they don't make these anymore or a modern equivalent. Since the 1990s much of the world has gone plastic, but nothing really beats the comfort of a leather boot.
Read more: Meindl Nordic 3-Pin Backcountry Leather Ski Boots review (1)
Garmont Voodoo
discontinued
Love this boot for lift skiing on and off piste. I do 50% alpine and 50% telemark. I crank it tight when doing the tele and then loosen off the buckles for the alpine. Voodoo is stiff in all the right places. It handles a big ski (191 Faction 13). Only downside might be that it loosens up a bit as the day goes on. have to keep tightening up a notch. I love the fact that the clips lock in place when you loosen the buckles going up the lift. Love 'em!
Reasons to Buy
- Solid
- Relatively stiff
- Awesome control
Reasons to Avoid
- Pack out
- Hard to get off at the end of the day
Great boot, did have it punched out where ankle bone protrudes. Solid, warm. Would prefer if it had a slightly narrower heel/achilles area as heel can lift a bit when cranking hard in tele position. Might be able to fix this by a good boot fitter. Great power strap. Had these for three years, but only get to the mountains 3-4 times a year. Boots are still like new! Need to get a tight fit, but this makes it tough for walking in them!
Read more: Garmont Voodoo review (1)
More Reviews of Telemark Boots
Trailspace reviewers have shared 12 reviews of 6 different telemark boots.
or add yours
Other Types of Telemark Gear
Find more telemark gear reviewed in these related categories:
Alpine Touring/Telemark Skis
Telemark Bindings
Alpine Touring/Telemark Poles
+2 more types
Review Your Outdoor Gear
If you've found this site helpful — or if we've missed something important — please consider paying it forward by some of your favorite outdoor gear.
Why? From professional gearheads to outdoor novices, everyone has an important point of view to contribute. will support the outdoor community and help others find the best gear.
Trailspace reviewers are outdoor enthusiasts like you: hikers, climbers, paddlers, backcountry skiers, and trail runners who share our experiences with the gear and clothing we rely on to get outside. Learn more about Trailspace