If the World Cup-calibre Firebird WC boots are the level of performance you want but you don’t have the masochism to shove your feet into them—grinding is mandatory—Tecnica now has a friendlier option, the Firebird R collection. The six-boot family retains nearly the same racecourse build, precision fit (a comparatively generous 96mm last and extra low-volume liner) and four-buckle closure. With flexes ranging from 140 to 60, there’s one for every racer in the family. From $450; tecnicausa.com

from Buyer’s Guide 2020