The Avanti series, which supplanted the Viper line in the Dalbello collection last season, strives for neutrality and by and large achieves it. The stance angle of 4o is upright, or what is considered a naturally centered position. The shell has been contoured around critical fit zones so it won’t intrude on sensitive toes and protruding ankle bones, which makes the fit of the Avanti’s feel more generous than the 100mm last advertises.
The overlap shell is softer right over the instep, which not only coddles this area but also eases the effort required to pull the boot on and off. The stock (i.e., non-Intuition™) liner is an improvement over earlier generations of Vipers, fitting both the foot and shell more accurately. Fans of a damp, plush ride in a stout, supportive shell get a lot of boot for the $499.99 the Avanti 120 will usually sell for with its stock liner. A more intimate fit is attainable with the custom Intuition I.D. liner, standard issue with the 130, which also makes the boot lighter and more responsive.
New for 2017 is a wide-lasted (103mm) Avanti in a 120 flex, the Avanti AX 120.