Tecnica Cochise 105 - Women's Review

Our Verdict
Our Analysis and Test Results
These feature-loaded ski boots have warm cushy liners and a flexible walk mode. They could be a good choice for an advanced skier who wants to hike to big lines or duck under the resort boundary for the occasional side-country run.
Comfort and Fit
Downhill Ski Performance
Features
The Cochise has a special power strap/buckle combination that allows you to really cinch down the tops of these boots and transition to walk mode easily without undoing the power strap. Instead you can just flip the buckle open. Unfortunately, our testers did not like this feature because it is difficult to gauge how tight the strap will end up once the buckle is cinched down, and we would often buckle it too tight, causing shin-bang.
Durability
The Cochise 105's seem very durable. They held up to our testing well and don't seem to have any major scratches or dings. The soles are still perfect. They don't have any parts that look like they will break easily.
Warmth
This boot is surprisingly warm for its advertised last width. Because we found it so roomy for a 98 mm last, it doesn't restrict circulation. The Cochise has a thick and cushy liner that keeps toes warm and blood flowing. The Cochise also comes with a pre-cut slit to install aftermarket boot warmers.
Best Application
Tecnica's Cochise 105s could be a good choice for someone who likes to hike from the resort to ski the big lines or occasionally ski out of bounds. The walk mode is excellent, and if this boot fits you they are likely to perform better than a traditional lightweight alpine touring boot for skiing aggressive side country lines. Ideally, this heavy boot should be used mostly in-bounds and make only occasional forays into the backcounty. It is not a dedicated backcountry boot.
Value
This boot is relatively versatile and comes loaded with features. With a special poured plastic shell, each boot is a little bit different than the other, so you will get your own unique pair — they all look slightly different. We think that the Technica Cochise is decent value at $550 MSRP, but that the Best Buy winning Dalbello Kyra 95 ID are a better buy for a lighter more comfortable boot that also is intended for some side-country usage.
Conclusion
The feature loaded Tecnica Cochise 105's strive to be a great side-country boot, but fall short. We found these boots too roomy in the ankle and heel area, and did not like the power strap/buckle combination because it caused the boot to feel too stiff. These problems resulted in poor performance because our feet moved around inside the boot resulting in a lack of control. A professional boot fitter and a custom foot bed could potentially solve these problems. If someone is looking for an aggressive side-country boot that has tech-compatible soles, and have the right foot shape, the Cochise could work.
Other Versions and Accessories
The women's Cochise also comes in a 90 flex model that does not include the power strap/buckle combination.