When you’re shopping for ski boots in that sweet-spot 100mm last, two names rise to the top again and again: Salomon’s Supra line and Atomic’s Hawx Prime series. Both target the same kind of skier, someone who wants precision without punishment, but they go about it with slightly different philosophies in materials, fit feel, and on-snow behavior.
Shared DNA: Fit and Performance Priorities
The Supra and Hawx Prime both fall squarely into the mid-volume category: A true 100mm last at a 26.5 shell size. Each delivers a precise heel pocket, even compression across the mid- and forefoot, and a fit that balances comfort with responsiveness.
Both lines now integrate BOA lower-zone closure systems, which help fine-tune pressure over the instep and deliver a more uniform wrap. From a perspective of fit and ski performance, these two families live very close to each other.
Liner Feel: Soft Luxury vs. Firm Precision
This is where their personalities diverge. The Supra’s liner uses a noticeably softer, more supple material that gives an instant “plush” impression the moment you slide your foot in. It hugs without squeezing, and the foam smooths out pressure points as it breaks in.
The Hawx Prime, on the other hand, opts for a denser, more structured liner. It feels more “locked-in” and performance-oriented from the jump, firmer under the heel and through the Achilles. Skiers who like a strong heel hold often find themselves banging their heel back to seat properly in the Supra, while the Prime tends to hold the heel in place more securely right out of the box. After a few ski days or a liner mold, the Supra relaxes into a roomier, more anatomical heel pocket; the Prime stays a bit snugger, especially above the heel.
Fit Differences: Subtle but Noticeable
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Heel & Achilles: Supra = tighter low-heel feel that opens up with use. Prime = more open heel base, but tighter wrap higher up on the Achilles.
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Forefoot & Toe Box: Atomic’s toe box is narrower, especially around the pinky and big toe, though it gives a touch more space over the ball of the foot. Salomon’s shape is squarer, slightly tighter across the ball, but roomier at the ends of the toes.
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Vertical Toe Space: The Supra gives a bit more vertical room, while the Prime can feel lower over the toes.
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Instep & Midfoot: Both are quite precise, though the Supra sits a little higher over the top of the foot, reducing pressure for higher-arched shapes.
On-Snow Feel: Progressive vs. Linear Power
Once you’re clicked in, the distinctions become even clearer. The Hawx Prime is a bit heavier and uses stiffer plastic, translating to a firmer, more powerful flex.
The Salomon Supra flexes a touch softer, is more linear feeling, and sacrifices some stability in more challenging terrain but this difference is minor.
The Bottom Line
If you want a livelier, softer-feeling boot that molds quickly and prioritizes step-in comfort, the Salomon Supra will likely feel like home.
If you prefer a firmer, denser liner feel and a stronger, more assertive flex, the Atomic Hawx Prime is hard to beat.
Both are some of the best mid-volume options that hit the rare balance of precision and comfort.
Watch this video for the full breakdown: