What the user notices somewhat negatively is the inner boot. The highest Tecnica quality does not seem to be used here. This is noticeable in the less than perfect entry (which is otherwise very good in Tecnica's top alpine boots) as well as in the feel and when removing the inner boot. Some savings seem to have been made here. However, this could explain the comparatively low price (RRP: €399).
The suitability of this standard inner boot for huts without lacing or any other additional support system could be improved. If you generally want more performance here, you should opt for a liner that is not quite as wide and therefore gives less over the course of a few days of skiing.
The width of the ski boot on the Cochise is more of a medium width. The harder Bodacious is a few millimetres narrower here, which should also appeal more to race-oriented freeriders. However, it does not have a walking mechanism.
Positives
- Comparatively low purchase price
- Flex value as stated quite hard
- Interchangeable sole
- Good usability
Negatives
- Liner is not the very best quality
- Touring/sole is not the best quality. touring/techsole is not as grippy as a Vibram sole
- walking mechanism could offer more leeway
Long-term test
Over the winter of 2012, the Tecnica Cochise was in use for around 60 freeride days - so for most freeriders, that's significantly more than a full ski season. What did we like and what didn't?
In principle, the Cochise got through the season without any problems. No problems with the walking mechanism, no buckles breaking off. The soles are a little worn and there are some cuts here as well as in the main shell. However, interchangeable soles are available and the cuts in the shell are only superficial and due to the average expected wear and tear.
The first point of criticism during long-term use relates to the inner shoe. As suspected from the start, this is designed more for comfort and widened over the course of the season in such a way that it is no longer comparable to the original fit. If you replace this liner with a higher quality one (e.g. Intuition), it should last longer. The second negative point concerns the ski boot shaft: this wobbles forward/backward by just under half a centimeter.
The odour nuisance can also be classified as normal to good. Only long spring tours are noticeable on the inner shoe.
As expected, the hardness (aka: "flex") of the shoe has decreased somewhat, a 110 flex has become a 100 flex. This puts the well-used Cochise slightly above a new BD Factor 130 in practical use.
Conclusion of the endurance test: Consistently solid performance. With a different liner, the Tecnica Cochise is a durable product with a good price-performance ratio.
Conclusion
The Tecnica Cochise is a fully-fledged alpine boot with touring characteristics and good durability. In terms of feel and general product characteristics, it is a little more alpine than the top dog Black Diamond Factor 130. The walking characteristics also underline this. The Cochise is therefore a good choice (provided it fits the user's foot) for anyone who doesn't climb much, or doesn't place much value on a comfortable ascent, but still wants a walking mechanism and tech compatibility or a rubberized sole, or wants to keep this option open.
