I am very excited to finally post a review for the Rossignol BC X6 Cross-Country Ski Boot. I had purchased these toward the end of the season in 2022 to use with the Madshus Panorama M78 backcountry skis. However, I ended up having to skip a full winter season due to surgeries, so I was not able to fully test them out. At this point, I’ve been able to enjoy them to the point where I can provide a solid review.
If you are wondering what the difference is between this boot and the Rossignol X-6 SC boot, then you are in the right place to learn the answer. The BC X6 boot is specifically designed to be used on a wider ski for backcountry use. The X-6 SC boot is a combi boot that can be used for both classic and skate skis, which are narrower skis used on groomed trail systems.
The BC X6 boot is significantly wider, has thicker insulation and has a wider toe clip designed for the BC NNN binding system. When we had initially purchased the Madshus skis, we had attempted to use our combi boots with them, which did not turn out well. To accommodate the wider skis, a beefier boot is needed. We ended up having to swap out the bindings on our Madshus skis so we could utilize the BC X6 boots. The correct binding to use for these boots on the Madshus skis is the NNN BC .
FIT/COMORT/WARMTH: The overall fit of the BC X6 boot is very similar to that of the X-6 SC boot. The only notable difference is the thicker insulation. I’ve used these boots in single-digit temperatures with only a medium-thickness sock, and my feet have always been plenty warm. The neoprene-like sleeve that sits around the ankles is much thicker for insulation. And like the X-6 SC boot, you lace the boot and zip up the outer material over the top of it, securing with the plastic ‘brace’ that you pull forward around the back of the ankle; the ankle strap closes around the front to the desired tightness. This boot provides ample ankle support and is extremely comfortable; even more comfortable than the X-6 SC boot.
It is important to mention that while I was researching the BC X6 boot, some people mentioned that the lacing hook (d-ring) ripped off while tightening the boots. I took that information into consideration but decided to purchase them anyway. The hooks are stitched very into the fabric and are quite sturdy! But whenever I lace up these boots, I do keep that in the back of my mind to ensure that I’m being as careful as possible. With that said, I do not anticipate experiencing that problem.
Another unique feature of the BC X6 boot is the addition of a bungee pull tab on the top back of the boot’s outer shell. This bungee allows you to tighten the top of the external gaiter around your leg as additional protection, preventing snow from getting down inside the boot. I’ve never needed to use this because that top portion of the boot fits perfectly around my leg and I pull my pants down over the boots.
NOTE: Be sure to keep the round cardboard rolls that come with the boot and put them back into the boot when not in use. This will prevent the neoprene inner layer of the boot (the part that wraps around your ankle) from folding inward. And, when you put the boot on, be sure to use the loophole to keep that fabric layer straight when you slide your foot in, also to prevent it from folding inward. If the lip (top edge) of that material starts to curve inward, it will cut into your leg and be very uncomfortable.
In addition to placing the rolls back inside of the boot, be sure to lace the boots up and close the velcro strap just like you would if they were on your feet. If that inner material is not kept tight up against the roll, the top edge will fold inward. This happened to me once with the X-6 SC boots when I was too lazy to suture the boot up around the roll (I just placed them inside of the boot). The top edge of the inner layer had just barely curved inward enough to the point where it had hurt my leg all day long while skiing. When I took them off, I pulled on the loop to stretch it out really well and then stuffed the roll in it and sutured up the boot really right. Learn from my mistake!
SIZING: Remember that when you are exercising, your body temperature increases, resulting in a slight expansion of your feet. And since it’s winter, normally a thicker sock is needed. My shoe size is a 5.5-6, so I decided upon a size 37 boot (this is a women’s specific boot). Usually, I wear a mid-weight, moisture-wicking sock that is adequate for temperatures down to the single digits.
NOTE: As with all of my other footwear, I usually replace the sole with my personal preference of orthotic insert. Heel blisters are always a concern with outdoor footwear. A vital component of preventing heel blisters is ensuring that the footwear has a deep heel cup. This is something to note if you put too thick of an insert into your footwear, because it could raise your heel, thus preventing the heel from resting perfectly within that heel cup. I’ve skied many miles in these boots and have never experienced any friction against my heels whatsoever. And simply walking around in these boots, without the skis, is comfortable as well.
FINAL THOUGHTS: If you are interested in trying backcountry cross-country skiing using a wider ski, then I highly recommend considering the Rossignol BC X6 cross-country ski boot. The degree of warmth, comfort and fit has enabled me to have a wonderful experience whenever I use them. Be sure to check out our review for the Madshus Panorama M78 skis that I pair with these boots.