So I tried out my double Vapor bindings on the sequence plate for the first time this morning and wow, wow, wow, wow, WOW! I expected a change but it was like I was on a new ski. For reference of my limited ability, I consistently ski 34 mph 15off, and had only once run 36mph 15off; I occasionally run 34mph 22 off.
First the performance; having such direct connection to the ski reminded me of the first time I skied my 2013 Strada, it felt so twitchy when skiing flat, it was begging to be on an edge. Across the wakes I could hold an angle I’d never achieved with the Vector boots. They felt so solid. Strangely it made the wakes feel harder, not in a bad way, just that I felt more of a thud. I really struggled to engage the turn on my onside. I didn’t feel the snap like I used to. It was turning, just slower than I expected and wanted. I will double check binding position tonight. My offsides however were great. They felt fast without snapping and just so so smooth. The result was that I matched my PB (2 @ 22off, 36mph). I should have run much deeper into 22off but made a silly error at 2 and only tried the pass once. I followed up with the easiest 22off 34mph I’ve ever skied. 22off 36mph is going down and very soon!
The downside; my feet were in a whole world of pain. I’m a 11/11.5 shoe size and ordered the Vapors in a 12. Standing on the dock they’re fine, I can just feel the end of the boot with my big toe. After a few passes however the arch of my feet were in agony. It’s like I did two sets skiing on my toes. Not sure if this is good and I will adjust or whether I need to do something about it. The other thing was that my front quad felt burnt out after 3 passes. It’s like I was skiing with one leg. In my back boot I used the sole-insert to lift the heel a little so I suspect this may be why. Considering I’m often guilty of being too heavy on my back foot this could be a good thing, once my leg adjusts to the new torture.
All in all, for the satisfaction of running more buoys I’ll gladly suffer the pain. Hopefully it’s just because they’re new and I’ll adjust. I could look at having the liners heat moulded, not sure how much of a difference this makes. This wasn’t supposed to be a review but I’ve just kept rambling. Anyway it’s been an interesting morning. If anyone’s had a similar experience with the Vapors it would be useful to hear how you got on with them after the honeymoon period.