ShaunT

@rockdog agreed. But it really is the issue for some never the less.

@C5Quest gets it. This is a real thing. Plus let’s not factor out slight manufacturing inconsistencies, even by a few mil could make a difference. Yes it can happen. Really the issue is Radar has released an awesome multipurpose boot but won’t give any guidance as to it’s setup for use in a mechanical release (some of its skiers have), which is fine for the more confident or experienced users but maybe not for the first timers with this setup/boot. It’s not a turn key solution from that perspective. Trial and error will ensue. For instance: I’ve never run a Reflex anything. I’m coming from a Syndicate shell. I buy the plate, the release, and the toe loop. All current and brand new. Toe loop doesn’t fit buy a few mm. Looking around from what I can see its the older style toe loop with the removable spacer that most are using. Seems to fit perfectly. I could try and source one but quicker to just mod the new one I have. Problem fixed. Can’t see how this is over thinking anything.

@Horton wow congratulations on your customisation free skiing and confirmation bias. Super helpful.

For those interested the toe loop gap issue was resolved by having my local stainless machinist trim down the base of the toe loop by 3mm. Fits perfectly. I will however install the second reflex toe loop as in all honestly there isnt a lot of boot being held in there and if over time and wear it changes the second loop is a good insurance policy. If you go that way I'd suggest not buying the new Radar plate and stick with or get a Reflex as the holes for both fittings are all there. On my old boot I had two HO Syndicate toe loops that needed replacing. First was the original under engineered one which was later upgraded. Then the upgraded one which eventually had the rubber contact point with the boot wear down to where there was some play between the two. I've also seen a video of the HO Syndicate boot pulling free of the stretched loop and the fall didn't look pleasant at all. So not giving it a chance with this one.

@KRoundy nice. Are you running reflex release or direct to plate?

Hey @brooks any advice for the OP toe loop fitment and rear screw in /out?

“ but with the cuff all the way back (in a locked position), can’t even clamp the Reflex down due to excessive force required” That’s interesting. Mine is tight but I wouldn’t call it excessive force so again interesting to see how these setups differ. The plate hole positioning for the release is probably playing a part there.

@TimBeier yep spot on all fixed now.

@gloresen is a brand new boot never used. The binding mount screws aren’t in. It’s the 7 hex screws (along the edges abs rear). I managed to find my hex set and got them down flush so all good there. It actually pulled the base off the boot together flatter which is good. Yep Achilles strap a mod I’m working on. “The upper cuff needs to have the rear retention screw removed such that the back end of the cuff can articulate up far enough for the Silvretta Reflex clasp to attach to the shell's ledge unobstructed” I tried this and yes it’s a better connection for sure but actually I think it’s worse overall and I’m not sure, unless someone can show me from Radar, that the rear screw should be out in a release setup. When out the articulation of the cuff actually moves the release back and forth which is not good. Looking at Joel Polands setup as far as I can see back screw is in. Jason McClintock: back screw is def in. Articulation off the cuff in my mind would actually hinder the release as the cuff being able to move so far forward won’t apply enough pressure on the release early enough. Were you are compensating for that is with strap around the top of the boot which holds it all together tighter and promotes less cuff articulation. Toe loop is brand new so unsure of vintage in that sense but behind all new current hardware interesting there is a gap.

Interesting to see all what others are doing with this boot. I just set this up also with the new Radar carbon plate and all new 840 release and new toe loop. Fits together nicely. I'm yet to ride it. Boot is very well built and comfy. I pulled the soft lining of the underside of the plate away cause I like a direct fit. Couple of things to point out that I notice with mine that others might be able to talk to: - Boot sole is flat, well flat around the edges edges and along side the side of the toes but down the centerline it is concave and the screws touch the plate not the boot. So flat yes, but note entirely. - I do have about a 1.5mm gap from the boot to the toe loop. Not sure if I should be concerned about this but I don't want/like any movement. - Can anyone whos already been using the boot speak to the longevity/robustness of the plastics used when using the release system? Just from setting it up it seems to impact on the plastics where as my Syndicate hardshell in the rear got scuffed up by the release but no where near gouged. Cheers

@Rpc29 So when are you joining the group Ryan? ;)

yes....I can hear it now: What's a Whoop?? Whoop what? Basically its about the best fitness wearable on market right now. If you have no idea what I'm talking about go to www.whoop.com and check it now. (and no, I don't work for them). So if your into that kinda thing check it out and join Whoop here: https://join.whoop.com/#/4581B2 Or if your already a Whoop member already come join the World Waterskiiers Group using theTeam Invite Code COMM-91C943 If your not a member you get a discount via the group if you join. Groups have a leaderboard for Strain, Sleep, and Recovery. Cause waterskiiers aren't competitive enough already.. ;) Its a great way to push each other to be better and it might just change your training, sleep, recovery, and overall health.

@ToddL ahh yes forgot about this vid. Thanks for the reminder.

Nate mentioned a bunch of years ago in an article that he raises his rear heal to help step his weight forward which I guess helps keep him centered. Cant see much of that going on here, maybe very very small amount. But there are pictures around that show it. Another skiier that does it in an obvious way is Corey Vaughn. Check out the 2020 Hilltop Proam. Heres a shot from it. Im not saying its the be all and end all. I guess each skiier can find a "thing" that helps them stay centered and aligned. Just gotta find what it is for you.

@Martin1980 Asher, Adams, Travers, Parish, Luzzeri, Christie all on the Omega platform, well their skis are prob not off the shelf Omegas but yeah, on the Omega and if not that its whatever is coming next. @immikerowley Jump on one of each and test ride it. Only way to know.