Fit
The Metis S offers a snug fit, with an especially cozy heel cup and a slightly shorter, narrower toebox than comparable boots from other brands. The heel cup and contoured, supported arch bed are great features for those whose feet tend to experience fatigue while skiing—though some may find the high, rigid arch a bit irritating over time.

Responsiveness
With a more rigid fit through the ankle and smaller volume than other boots in this review, the Metis S is less likely to have the kind of interior sliding around that reduces power transfer. It’s nicely responsive, especially on icier patches where the ankles (rather than the boot) might otherwise bear the brunt of the ski track’s chatter.

Lacing/Closure System
The inner cuff laces with a traditional tie lace which is difficult to manage with cold fingers, as well as apt to get caught in the zippered overboot. The zip on the overboot tends to slide down while skiing, and is difficult to adjust because of its awkward positioning directly behind the Velcro strap. A pull loop at the heel would make for easier entry.

Ankle Stability
Skiers with weaker ankles will appreciate the beefy and relatively rigid ankle cuff—lined all around with foam—which doesn’t leave much space for side-to-side slop when skating. Others, particularly those with naturally strong ankles, may find it uncomfortably stiff or irritating for multi-hour outings.

Comfort
The traditional tie inner lace doesn’t allow for much customization of fit; snugging it up too much can pinch the top of the arch, while leaving it too loose reduces power transfer. The thick, full-length tongue and 360-degree foam in the ankle leads to some excess warmth (i.e. sweating) around the ankles.