Michael, wear your gold chains and bracelets, I'll bring the club of salami!
Ron is now a happy camper. I think for his foot going with Head was a good choice. Still not quite 100% sure on the RS 96 over the 90 but a few times on the mountain will tell. I'm sure his bootfitter will get him squared away.
Jim, regarding rotary and lateral boots...I'm with Harold on that cause I experienced it with my Lange Comp 120's. Boots with with the medial side cuff? pin (inside) lower than the lateral pin (outside) are what I believe are a rotary boot..when the front of the ski is pressured, the heels tend to kick to the outside instead of track straight.? Much of whether one likes that I believe is based upon what technique the skier uses. It really is a matter of what works for your skiing style.
Jbotti, I hear you on the buckle and unbuckling of the boots....ususally that's where I am for the first 1/2 hour on the mountain. Then I leave them alone or tighten them up as needed. I think a properly fitted and performing boot should not have to be tightened or loosened to accommodate changes in terrain.
I believe in the plug boot concept when you've got someone that can custom fit your foot to that boot. Although my Head RS80 is not considered a plug boot, the bootfitter and grinder were flinging material out of that boot like volcanic plastic, plus I've got 20 hours into hand sanding to get the pressure even around the foot and the cuff.
I also know first hand about being in boots that were too stiff. Did some cuff modifications on them and all was good until I realized the overall volume in the boot was too much, especially after they packed in. That's when I purchased my Heads. Finding a boot that anatomically fits your fit before you slide the liner is is key.
There is a happy medium between comfortable feet and maximum performance....we consider all the advice and know and it's a road we end up taking alone.
If? you demand the most from your gear, the trip is most certainly worth the effort!
Best,
Gary