First Look: La Sportiva Expands Ski Boot Lineup with the Kilo XTR & Sender for Fall 2025
La Sportiva, a brand long recognized for its high-performance mountain gear, just unveiled two new ski boots set to hit the market in Fall 2025: the Kilo XTR and the Sender. These boots are designed for backcountry skiers and freeriders who demand both uphill efficiency and downhill power. After getting a first look at these new releases during the Outdoor Media Alliance (OMA) Show, here’s what stands out.
Kilo XTR – Lightweight Touring with Power to Descend
Building off the success of the award-winning Kilo, the Kilo XTR refines La Sportiva’s lightweight construction while improving downhill stability. Weighing in at just 1190g, this boot is engineered for ski tourers who need maximum range of motion on the uphill (68 degrees!) without sacrificing control on steep descents.
Key Features:
- 120 Flex Rating – A carbon-infused tongue increases stiffness for confident turns in variable conditions.
- Force Power Strap & Buckles – Customizable fit for better responsiveness.
- Tilt Lock Lite System – Quick and seamless ski-walk transitions, even in extreme alpine conditions.
- Frixion Wave Alpine XTR Sole – Prevents snow buildup and enhances grip for boot packing sections.
- Ultralon Thermo-Moldable Liner – Designed for warmth, comfort, and a precise fit.
For those tackling long tours in the Eastern Sierra backcountry, the Kilo XTR’s combination of lightweight efficiency and downhill performance could make it a solid option.
Sender – Freeride Performance Meets Backcountry Versatility
Designed for big-mountain skiers who need a powerful freeride boot that doesn’t weigh them down, the Sender brings resort-level control into the backcountry. At 1480g with a 130 flex, it’s one of the lightest freeride touring boots available—perfect for Sierra backcountry skiers who transition between alpine bowls and technical chutes.
Key Features:
- GripWalk™ Outsole – Compatible with alpine bindings for seamless resort-backcountry crossover.
- Force Wrap System & Double-Layer Tongue – Improved fit, power transfer, and comfort in walk mode.
- 64-Degree Range of Motion – Excellent mobility for steep approaches and skin tracks.
- Bio-Based Shell Materials – Pebax Rnew and Grilamid Carbon to balance durability with eco-conscious design.
- 102.5mm Last Width – A more generous fit for comfort over long days in the mountains.
For Sierra skiers pushing deep into the High Sierra backcountry—whether dropping into couloirs in Tioga Pass or charging down Mammoth’s sidecountry—the Sender is built to handle aggressive descents while keeping weight to a minimum.
Final Thoughts: Will These Boots Shake Up the Backcountry Scene?
La Sportiva has long been a trusted name in mountain footwear, but its ski boots are gaining momentum among serious backcountry and freeride skiers. The Kilo XTR appears ideal for ski tourers who prioritize uphill mobility, while the Sender caters to freeride skiers who want a responsive, lightweight boot for steep, technical terrain.
We’ll be keeping an eye on these models as they roll out later this year. Stay tuned for trail-tested reviews once we get these boots into the Sierra backcountry for real-world testing!
Both the Kilo XTR and Sender will be available in Fall 2025 at select retailers and online at www.sportiva.com.
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